The Philippine Government has declared September  as a Day of National Mourning following the death of National Artist for Literature Resil B. Mojares.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Proclamation No. 1434 recognizing the contribution of Mojares to Philippine literature and culture. The proclamation directs that the national flag be flown at half-mast across the country on the designated day of mourning.

Mojares, a highly regarded scholar, historian, writer and literary critic, made significant contributions to the study of Philippine literature and history. His academic and cultural work covered Philippine writing, regional history and the development of Filipino intellectual thought.

The government’s declaration places his passing within a national commemoration, giving government institutions and the public an opportunity to recognize his contribution to the country’s cultural heritage.

The national flag will be displayed at half-mast from sunrise until sunset on September 12. The measure applies to government buildings, offices and establishments throughout the Philippines in accordance with the presidential proclamation.

The declaration follows Mojares’ death on September 5. The government announcement described his passing as a loss to Philippine culture and recognized his extensive contribution to literature and scholarship.

Mojares was born in Cebu and became known for his work as a historian, literary scholar and author. His research and writing examined Philippine society, history and literature, while his academic career helped strengthen the study of Philippine cultural and intellectual history.

His work also extended beyond traditional literary criticism. Through historical research and scholarship, he documented important aspects of Philippine society and contributed to a deeper understanding of the country’s regional and national history.

His recognition as a National Artist placed him among the country’s most distinguished cultural figures. The National Artist award is the Philippines’ highest national recognition for Filipinos who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts and culture.

The government’s proclamation therefore serves both as an official expression of national respect and as a formal commemoration of a major figure in Philippine cultural life.

Government agencies and public institutions are expected to observe the flag protocol specified in the proclamation. The half-mast display will remain in effect throughout the designated national day of mourning.

The declaration also highlights the continuing role of national institutions in recognizing individuals whose work has had a lasting influence on Philippine culture, education and scholarship.

For the Philippines, the national mourning observance provides an opportunity to remember Mojares’ contribution to literature, historical research and cultural scholarship while recognizing the lasting importance of his work to succeeding generations.