The Commemoration of the Declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines is observed on September 21 every year. This day marks the signing of Proclamation No. 1081, which initiated the 14-year rule of Ferdinand Marcos, a period characterized by brutality and corruption. Throughout Philippine history, various leaders have declared martial law, including Ramon Blanco, Emilio Aguinaldo, Jose P. Laurel, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and Rodrigo Duterte. The commemoration serves to remind the public of the horrors experienced during Marcos's regime and to emphasize that such events should never be repeated. During this day, opposition groups often hold protests, particularly in response to the martial law declaration by President Duterte in 2017. The observance underscores the importance of remembering and reflecting on the impact of martial law in the Philippines.