Photo credit: PIA Eastern

The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill declaring March 17 of every year as “Homonhon Landing Day,” which will also be observed as a special non-working holiday in Eastern Samar.

House Bill No. 122 seeks to commemorate the arrival of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan on Homonhon Island in 1521, a historical event linked to the early phase of global exploration and the eventual introduction of Christianity in parts of Asia.

Recognizing a key historical moment

The measure highlights the significance of Magellan’s landing as a milestone that marked the beginning of a new era of global interaction and exploration. Lawmakers said the observance is intended to preserve and promote awareness of this part of Philippine and world history.

The bill was authored by Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan, and Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores.

Local and national observance planned

Under the proposed law, the provincial government of Eastern Samar will take the lead in organizing annual commemorative activities, in coordination with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and other relevant agencies.

Planned activities include historical reenactments, cultural presentations, and educational programs aimed at highlighting the historical importance of Homonhon Island in Philippine history.

Preserving heritage through commemoration

Supporters of the measure said the declaration aims to strengthen historical awareness and cultural pride, particularly in Eastern Samar, while encouraging educational engagement among students and local communities.

Once enacted, the observance is expected to become an annual event that blends historical remembrance with cultural celebration in the province.