Holiday detail
National Heroes Day
Also known as Araw ng mga Bayani.
National Heroes Day honors all Filipinos — famous and unnamed — whose courage helped shape the country.
Quick facts
Filipino name
Araw ng mga Bayani
Also known as National Heroes Day in English.
Araw ng mga Bayani is Filipino for 'Day of the Heroes' (araw = day, mga bayani = heroes). Observed every last Monday of August.
Meaning and traditions
National Heroes Day is a regular holiday for the heroes we've heard of and the many we haven't. Unlike most holidays, it doesn't have a fixed date — it's observed on the last Monday of August, which is part of why it's such a reliable long weekend.
Because it's a Monday by design, this is easily one of the most planned-around dates of the year. The deeper meaning, though, sits closer to home: heroism here is broader than statues and textbooks. The day asks us to think about service and quiet sacrifice too.
Long-weekend note
This holiday creates a 3-day weekend from August 29-31, 2026.
No extra leave day is needed for this break.
Frequently asked questions
When is National Heroes Day in 2026?
National Heroes Day 2026 falls on Monday, August 31, 2026.
What does National Heroes Day mean?
National Heroes Day is a regular holiday for the heroes we've heard of and the many we haven't. Unlike most holidays, it doesn't have a fixed date — it's observed on the last Monday of August, which is part of why it's such a reliable long weekend. Also called Araw ng mga Bayani.
What does Araw ng mga Bayani mean in English?
Araw ng mga Bayani is Filipino for 'Day of the Heroes' (araw = day, mga bayani = heroes). Observed every last Monday of August.
Is National Heroes Day a regular or special holiday in the Philippines?
It's a regular holiday — a non-working day with full pay protections under the Labor Code.
Does National Heroes Day 2026 make a long weekend?
Yes. National Heroes Day 2026 forms a 3-day weekend from August 29-31, 2026. You don't need to file any leave.
What are common traditions for National Heroes Day in the Philippines?
Common observances: hero tributes, history lessons, civic ceremonies, family breaks.