Presidents and Family History Month

Every October is celebrated as Family History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the art of tracing and preserving one’s lineage.

- Todd Sales Lucero

This observance started in the United States and the Philippines doesn’t have an official “Family History Month.” Instead, August is recognized as History Month under Proclamation No. 339 (2012), encouraging appreciation of the nation’s rich past. Meanwhile, October is celebrated abroad as Filipino American History Month, highlighting Filipino heritage and contributions in the United States.

The last week of September, on the other hand, is observed in the Philippines as National Family Week through Proclamation No. 60 (1992), focusing on the importance of family unity, love, and stability. In line with these observances, let us look at the many “firsts” among Philippine presidents related to family and ancestry.