Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11699)
Republic Act No. 11699 declares August 30 of every year as National Press Freedom Day, a working holiday.
The National Press Freedom Day honors Marcelo H. Del Pilar, the father of Philippine Journalism, who wrote under the pen name Plaridel and was born on August 30, 1850.
August 30 is declared as National Press Freedom Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Marcelo H. Del Pilar and to emphasize the importance of press freedom.
All government agencies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, government-owned and controlled corporations, local government units, and the private sector must afford sufficient time and opportunity for their employees to engage and participate in activities related to National Press Freedom Day within their premises.
DepEd, CHED, and TESDA, in consultation with the Office of the President and media organizations, shall lead the organization of consciousness-raising activities in public and private schools about the importance of the press, their rights and responsibilities, and the elimination of violence against the press.
No, National Press Freedom Day is declared a working holiday under RA 11699.
Marcelo H. Del Pilar is considered the father of Philippine Journalism.
RA 11699 mandates the observance of National Press Freedom Day, promotes activities to raise awareness of press rights and responsibilities, and calls for the elimination of all forms of violence against the press.
RA 11699 took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11699 into law on April 13, 2022.