Ninoy Aquino Day

Ninoy Aquino Day is observed in the Philippines every August 21 to commemorate the assassination of Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino Jr., a leading opposition figure during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos. Aquino was killed at Manila International Airport on August 21, 1983, shortly after returning from exile in the United States. His death intensified public opposition to authoritarian rule and became a major catalyst for the People Power Revolution of February 1986, which restored democratic government in the country. The airport was later renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport in his honor.

The holiday was formally established as a national special non-working day through Republic Act No. 9256, signed in 2004. It recognizes Aquino’s sacrifice and the broader struggle for democracy, civil liberties, accountable government, and peaceful political participation. In 2026, Ninoy Aquino Day falls on Friday, August 21, and remains distinct from the separate public holiday commemorating his wife, President Corazon C. Aquino, on August 21? No—Corazon Aquino is commemorated through other national observances, while Ninoy Aquino Day specifically honors the senator and democratic opposition leader assassinated in 1983.

Commemorations commonly include wreath-laying ceremonies, memorial masses, public speeches, museum and school programs, historical discussions, and tributes at sites associated with Aquino’s life and death. Government offices, civic organizations, universities, and democratic groups often hold forums on the People Power movement, human rights, journalism, and the responsibilities of citizenship. Some Filipinos display yellow ribbons, flowers, or clothing, recalling the yellow campaign symbolism associated with the Aquino movement and the wider opposition to martial-law rule.

Because Ninoy Aquino Day is a special non-working holiday, many people spend the day with family or use it as an opportunity to visit historical landmarks, watch documentaries, and read about Philippine democracy. There is no single traditional dish or nationwide festival uniquely associated with the observance, although family meals and community gatherings may accompany local programs. Formal tributes often use respectful phrases such as “We remember Ninoy Aquino” and “Never forget,” while messages frequently emphasize his sacrifice, courage, and the continuing importance of democracy.