US Embassy in Manila closed on June 20

The United States Embassy in Manila was closed on Monday in observance of the 150th birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. In an announcement posted on Monday on its Facebook page, the Embassy said it will resume full operations on Tuesday, June 21. Malacañang had declared Monday a special non-working holiday to allow Filipinos to commemorate the heroism of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. Rizal's 150th birth anniversary was celebrated on June 19. President Benigno Aquino III issued Proclamation 154 “to give all Filipinos the opportunity to commemorate Rizal’s patriotic deeds and sacrifices for the country, rekindle their admiration and respect for him, and to celebrate this milestone with appropriate ceremonies." - VVP, GMA News