Every April 21, the municipality of Orani in Bataan, Philippines, commemorates its founding anniversary, known as Araw ng Orani. This date marks the establishment of Orani as a separate missionary center in 1714, when Spanish missionaries designated it as an independent ecclesiastical mission.
The celebration was officially recognised as a special non-working holiday through Republic Act No. 11145, signed into law in 2018.
Araw ng Orani is a vibrant community event featuring activities such as street dancing, trade fairs, parades, and cultural performances. The festivities highlight the town’s rich heritage and foster a sense of unity among its residents
Beyond this annual celebration, Orani is also known for its historical landmarks, including the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, a neoclassical Marian shrine located in the town centre.
Araw ng Orani serves as a testament to the town’s enduring legacy and the strong community spirit of its people.
[Photo by Emmanuel Nicolas Jr.]