Palace declares January 23 special non-working day in Bulacan

Malacañang has declared January 23, 2025, Thursday, a special non-working day in the province of Bulacan.

Signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Proclamation No. 769 states that the province will mark the anniversary of the inauguration of the First Philippine Republic, which took place in Barasoain Church in Malolos City.

''It is but fitting and proper that the people of the province of Bulacan be given full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration,'' the Proclamation read.

By virtue of Presidential Proclamation 533 issued in 2013, January 23 of every year has been declared Araw ng Republikang Filipino 1899.

According to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Malolos Republic Day is significant as the country became recognized as an independent nation and the first republic in Asia.

--Anna Felicia Bajo/ VAL, GMA Integrated News