Law Summary

Declaration of Special Public Holiday

• Legal Principle/Provision: This proclamation declares Thursday, October 20, 1955, as a special public holiday in the province of Leyte, including Ormoc City.
• Key Definitions Introduced:
  • Special Public Holiday: A day designated by the government where regular work is suspended, and citizens are encouraged to commemorate significant historical events.
• Important Requirements or Procedures Outlined:
  • The holiday applies specifically to the province of Leyte and Ormoc City.
• Relevant Timeframes:
  • The holiday is set for October 20, 1955, as specified in the proclamation.
• Penalties, Liabilities, or Consequences Mentioned:
  • The document does not outline any penalties or liabilities related to the observance of this special holiday.

Historical Significance

• Legal Principle/Provision: The proclamation emphasizes the significance of October 20 to the people of Leyte, marking the anniversary of the landing of the United States Armed Forces, which played a crucial role in liberating the Philippines from enemy occupation.
• Key Definitions Introduced:
  • Anniversary of the Landing: Refers to the historical event commemorating the arrival of foreign forces that contributed to the country's liberation.
• Important Requirements or Procedures Outlined:
  • The public is encouraged to observe the day reflecting on its historical importance.
• Relevant Timeframes:
  • The historical event occurred on October 20, 1944, making the 1955 proclamation a commemoration of that date.
• Penalties, Liabilities, or Consequences Mentioned:
  • No penalties or liabilities are specified regarding the observance of the anniversary.

Authority of the President

• Legal Principle/Provision: The proclamation is issued by President Ramon Magsaysay, utilizing the powers vested in him by Section 30 of the Revised Administrative Code.
• Key Definitions Introduced:
  • Section 30 of the Revised Administrative Code: The provision of law empowering the President to declare holidays.
• Important Requirements or Procedures Outlined:
  • The President's declaration serves as the legal basis for the holiday.
• Relevant Timeframes:
  • The proclamation was made on October 14, 1955, just six days before the holiday.
• Penalties, Liabilities, or Consequences Mentioned:
  • No penalties or liabilities are mentioned concerning the authority exercised by the President.

Official Documentation

• Legal Principle/Provision: The proclamation is formally documented and signed by the President and the Executive Secretary.
• Key Definitions Introduced:
  • Official Seal of the Republic of the Philippines: A symbol used to authenticate governmental documents.
• Important Requirements or Procedures Outlined:
  • The proclamation must be signed and sealed to hold legal effect.
• Relevant Timeframes:
  • The document is dated October 14, 1955, affirming its issuance prior to the holiday.
• Penalties, Liabilities, or Consequences Mentioned:
  • No penalties or liabilities are indicated concerning the documentation process.

Key Takeaways

• Proclamation No. 204 declares October 20, 1955, as a special public holiday in Leyte and Ormoc City.
• The holiday commemorates the anniversary of the U.S. Armed Forces' landing in Leyte, significant for the liberation of the Philippines.
• The proclamation is issued under the authority of President Ramon Magsaysay, referencing Section 30 of the Revised Administrative Code.
• The formal signing and sealing of the document validate its legal standing.
• No penalties or liabilities are associated with the observance of this holiday or the issuance of the proclamation.