The Philippine missions in the UAE will be closed from August 23 to 26 in observance of two Philippine national holidays. August 23 is Ninoy Aquino Day, a national non-working holiday, while August 26 is National Heroes’ Day. The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi can be contacted for emergency matters during the closure. The Philippine Consulate General in Dubai can also be reached for various consular and assistance-to-nationals matters.
Ninoy Aquino Day is observed annually on August 21 in the Philippines to commemorate the assassination of former Senator Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino Jr. Aquino was a staunch opposition figure and critic of then-president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. His assassination on August 21, 1983, led to his wife Corazon Aquino becoming the 11th Philippine President and their son Noynoy Aquino becoming the 15th president. In his honor, the Manila International Airport was later named Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
This year, President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. moved the observance of Ninoy Aquino Day to August 23 to provide a longer weekend for domestic tourism in the Philippines, as August 26 is National Heroes’ Day. Both holidays are significant in Philippine history and culture. It is important for Filipinos to remember and honor their national heroes on these special days.
In the UAE, the closure of the Philippine missions may affect Filipino expatriates who need consular services during that time. However, emergency contact numbers have been provided for assistance. It is essential for Filipino nationals in the UAE to be aware of the holiday schedule and make necessary arrangements in advance to avoid any inconvenience during the closure period.
Overall, the observance of Ninoy Aquino Day and National Heroes’ Day holds great significance for the Filipino community, both in the Philippines and abroad. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of their national heroes and to celebrate their legacy. The closure of the Philippine missions in the UAE serves as a reminder of the importance of these holidays and the unity of Filipinos in honoring their heritage and history.
