MANILA: Senator Loren Legarda has underscored the importance of honoring Aug. 1 to recognize the sacrifices made for Philippine independence and inspire Filipinos to cherish and defend the nation. In a news release, Legarda said the passage of Senate Bill No. 2690 or the Bacoor Assembly Act of 1898 Act which declares Aug. 1 of every year as a special working holiday, to be known as the Araw ng Paglalathala at Pagtatanyag ng Kasarinlan ng Pilipinas, 'extends far beyond a simple historical date.' The measure aims to commemorate the Bacoor Assembly on Aug. 1, 1898, where President Emilio Aguinaldo, along with 200 municipal leaders, signed the Acta de Independencia drafted by Apolinario Mabini, affirming the country's independence and democratic ideals. 'This event represented a broad-based affirmation of our independence and democratic ideals as articulated by Apolinario Mabini. By commemorating this date, we honor the sacrifices of those who fought for independence and celebrate the enduring legacy of freedo m and solidarity," Legarda said in her manifestation after senators unanimously approved the bill on Tuesday. Under the approved bill, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts is mandated to promote the historical significance of Aug. 1 and the events surrounding the Bacoor Assembly of 1898. Meanwhile, the Department of Education shall develop and implement lesson plans that highlight the importance of this day, ensuring that students are educated about its relevance and importance. 'Ang pagpaparangal sa Agosto Uno ay pagpaparangal sa kahalagahan ng ating kasaysayan. Ang Agosto Uno ay magsisilbing inspirasyon sa lahat ng Pilipino na patuloy ipaglaban at tunay na mahalin ang ating bansa (Honoring Aug. 1 also honors the importance of our history. Aug. 1 serves as an inspiration to all Filipinos to continue fighting for and to truly love our country),' Legarda said. Source: Philippines News Agency