Reflect, Remember, Rest: Here are 6 Destinations to Visit this National Heroes Day for Free

As the Philippines commemorate the National Heroes Day on the last Monday of August, we honor the valor and sacrifice of selfless men and women who battled for the freedom of our country. Without them, our rich history would not be forged and our collective identity as Filipinos would be adrift. All heroes – prominent or not deserve the utmost respect and honor as they all laid their lives for our justice and pride.

Now, it is our role as Filipinos to pay our respects and tributes, as we owe them the victory over colonial rule. On this special day, let us take our time not just to visit these historical sites in honor of them – but to reflect on who we truly are as one people. Navigate these places from all over the Philippines to get to know what it was like on the days they lived, and learn about their legacy. 

Here are places you can visit with your friends, family, or even alone to reflect on National Heroes’ Day:

1. Rizal Park (Luneta)

Manila

Located in the heart of Ermita, Manila – the execution site of the Philippines’ National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal now showcases a monument that gives a chance to pause, reflect and pay homage to his martyrdom. Free to enter and open to the public, the park also features Japanese and Chinese Gardens, Dancing Fountain in the evening and a perfect quadrangle to unwind. 

2. Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine

Kawit, Cavite 

There’s no other better way to honor our heroes than personally witnessing the declaration site of Philippine Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898. The shrine, now a museum, is the home of the first Philippine president, Emilio Aguinaldo. This place is a symbol of the Filipinos’ triumph over colonial rule and testament of our country’s rich history.

3. Calle Crisologo 

Vigan, Ilocos Sur 

Calle Crisologo’s heritage streets will instantly make you travel back in time to the lives our heroes lived during the Spanish colonial period. Here, you can experience what it was like to be a Filipino in the 1800s through renting traditional Filipino wear, visiting preserved ancestral houses and museums. Savor Vigan’s cuisine with its variety of cafes and restaurants, and take home cultural items their souvenir shops offer. 

4. Intramuros 

Manila

The “Walled City” of Manila is a witness of the Filipinos’ trials, resilience and revolutionary spirit. The same place where Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned before his execution in 1896, now Museo ni Rizal tells the story of his lifework and the cruelty he suffered under the Spanish colonial rule. Intramuros also exhibits multiple historical sites including Plaza de Roma, Plaza de España, San Agustin Church, Baluarte de San Diego and Manila Cathedral. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also filled with traditional Filipino restaurants aside from its picturesque streets and landscape.

5. Quezon Memorial Circle

Quezon City

In the middle of the busy elliptical circle, offer a tribute to the Father of the Philippine Commonwealth, Manuel L. Quezon. Quezon Memorial Circle offers a unique experience perfect for reflection and recreation. Beneath the 66-meters tall Quezon Memorial Shrine lies Quezon’s remains surrounded by museums housing his legacy. The site also offers gardens, playgrounds, and the Quezon Heritage House – the reconstructed residence of Quezon’s family in Manila.

6. Tandang Sora Shrine 

Quezon City

“Abante, Babae!” ba kamo? Tandang Sora Shrine pays commendation to the humble spirit of Melchora “Tandang Sora” Aquino, the “Mother of Philippine Revolution.” At 84, Tandang Sora sheltered and offered medical care to Katipuneros. Her birthplace along Banlat Road is now a monument for visual artist Toym Imao’s sculpture in honor of her heroism. The first women’s museum of the country, Tandang Sora Women’s museum is also located beside the shrine. 

These places all have unique stories of the heroes who laid their lives for us. May these resonate with our lives, shape our values and ignite the hope for a better future of the Philippines – all while doing our roles as responsible citizens of our beloved country.