Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for declaring January 6 of each year as Tandang Sora Day by virtue of Republic Act 12218, which he signed on May 29, 2025.
“This is a great recognition of Melchora Aquino and her important role during the Katipunan era and in the history of our beloved city,” she said in a statement.
“As a hero born and raised in Quezon City, Tandang Sora symbolizes resilience, heroism and compassion for others in sheltering and caring for the Katipuneros despite threats to her life,” the mayor added.
Tandang Sora stands as a strong symbol of women empowerment because of her important role in promoting freedom and justice for our people, according to Belmonte. The historic figure was also known as the Grand Woman of the Revolution and the Mother of Balintawak.
“The commemoration of Tandang Sora Day will also serve as a reminder and inspiration to every QCitizen and every Filipino to keep the memory and spirit of Tandang Sora’s heroism alive in their daily lives by showing concern, unity and standing up for what is right,” the Quezon City government said.
Melchora Aquino was born on January 6, 1812 in Barrio Banlat, Caloocan, the present-day Barangay Tandang Sora, Quezon City. She died at her daughter Saturnina’s house in Banlat on February 19, 1919 at the age of 107.
President Marcos has declared January 6 of every year a special working holiday in Quezon City to commemorate the birth anniversary of Melchora Aquino.
