President Benigno Aquino declared under Proclamation No. 433 that Friday, July 13, 2012 is the National Day of Remembrance for the late Philippine king of comedy Rodolfo Vera Quizon, to his millions of fans, Dolphy.  The sad news broke out on social media re Dolphy’s death last Tuesday after he succumbed to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

In a press statement, “The President issued the proclamation in recognition of how the nation deeply feels the passing of Dolphy. In the proclamation, the President cited Dolphy as a man who will live on in Philippine cultural history—and in the hearts of many of his countrymen.  President Aquino in his proclamation said that every milestone that Dolphy marked in a career that spanned decades, raised the standards of the entertainment industry, and strengthened our cultural identity, giving innumerable aspirants an example to look up to.”

Via Google Images

Malacanang is citing Dolphy’s contributions to Philippine culture, arts and entertainment as well as his philanthropic and generosity towards Filipinos in general. 

However, July 13, 2012 is NOT a non-working holiday.  People have clamored for Malacanang to declare a Day of Mourning but as Dolphy’s family has expressed, Dolphy would want to be remembered for his life and not passing.  We all want to celebrate his life and the late comedian’s art and artistry, his kindness and generosity, and deep patriotism.

Some people remarked that Palace, receiving proposals to commemorate Dolphy’s life, should have declared his birthday instead as the National Day of Remembrance to make it more significant.

The last day of the public viewing, where fans can pay their respect, will be on Saturday, from 8 am to 3 pm. 

The films of deeply loved Dolphy will be shown on Cinema One, SKY Cable Channel 56, from July 14 to July 20, 6am onwards.