The city of Manila commemorates today, June 24, the 448th anniversary of its proclamation as the country’s capital.
Following the celebration, the Palace has declared this day a special non-working holiday.
“It is but fitting that the people of the City of Manila be given full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies,” the proclamation issued by Malacañang read.
Manila was proclaimed as the capital of the Philippines in 1571.
It became a chartered city by virtue of the Philippine Commission Act 183 on July 31, 1901.
The city gained autonomy on June 18, 1949 with the passage of Republic Act No. 409 or the Revised Charter of the City of Manila.
Today’s celebration marks the last Araw ng Maynila under the leadership of Mayor and former President Joseph Estrada.