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MALACAÑAN PALACE
MANILA

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

[ Proclamation No. 956, February 3, 1997 ]

DECLARING 1997 AS THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMY CENTENNIAL YEAR AND CONSTITUTING A NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR ITS CELEBRATION

WHEREAS, the year 1997 marks the centenary of the foundation of the Philippine Astronomical Service which has its humble beginnings in the Manila Observatory established by the Jesuit Fathers by a Royal Decree on April 28, 1884;

WHEREAS, during the century of its existence, the Manila Observatory has rendered invaluable service to the country particularly meteorological, seismological, as well as astronomical service which started as early as 1897;

WHEREAS, there is a need to recognize the significant contribution and commitment to the development of astronomy by founding Jesuits and Filipino Astronomers who have distinguished themselves in the meteorological world;

WHEREAS, it is imperative to enhance public consciousness of all the efforts undertaken by the government to improve and develop astronomical services throughout the country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FIDEL V. RAMOS, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare the year 1997 as the Philippine Astronomy Centennial Year and establish a National Astronomy Centennial Committee composed of the Department of Science and Technology with PAGASA as the lead/chair agency, the Department of Education, Culture and Sports with National Museum as vice chair, the Philippine Information Agency, and the Manila Observatory;

The government agencies mentioned are hereby directed to lead and oversee the conduct of activities and programs which will ensure the accomplishment of the objectives of this proclamation;

The Committee may call on other departments, agencies, bureaus or offices, including government-owned and controlled corporations and non-government organizations for assistance in the implementation of various activities related thereto.1aшphi1

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 3rd day of February in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and ninety seven.

(Sgd.) FIDEL V. RAMOS

By the President:

(Sgd.) RUBEN D. TORRES
Executive Secretary

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