President Marcos Declares Regular Holidays and Special Non-Working Days for the Year

On January 1, 2023, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (PBBM) issued a proclamation declaring the regular holidays and special non-working days for the year. This move aims to provide citizens with a clear outline of the country's holidays, allowing them to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements.

The proclamation, which was signed by the President, declares a total of 19 regular holidays and 8 special non-working days. The regular holidays include New Year's Day, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Araw ng Kagitingan, Labor Day, Independence Day, National Heroes' Day, Bonifacio Day, Christmas Day, and Rizal Day, among others.

In addition to the regular holidays, the proclamation also declares special non-working days, which include the Chinese New Year, EDSA Revolution Anniversary, Black Saturday, and All Saints' Day, among others. These special non-working days are typically observed in specific areas or regions, and are intended to promote cultural and historical awareness.

The declaration of regular holidays and special non-working days is in accordance with the country's labor laws and regulations. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) will be responsible for implementing the proclamation and ensuring that all government agencies and private establishments comply with the declared holidays.

The proclamation is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and tourism industry. By declaring regular holidays and special non-working days, the government is providing citizens with more opportunities to travel, relax, and spend time with their loved ones. This, in turn, is expected to boost domestic tourism and stimulate economic growth.

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said that the proclamation is part of the government's efforts to promote work-life balance and provide citizens with a better quality of life. The PCO also encouraged citizens to take advantage of the declared holidays to explore the country's rich culture and history.

The full list of regular holidays and special non-working days can be found on the official website of the Office of the President. Citizens are advised to check the list regularly for any updates or changes.

Regular Holidays:

• New Year's Day - January 1
• Maundy Thursday - variable date
• Good Friday - variable date
• Araw ng Kagitingan - April 9
• Labor Day - May 1
• Independence Day - June 12
• National Heroes' Day - August 28
• Bonifacio Day - November 30
• Christmas Day - December 25
• Rizal Day - December 30

Special Non-Working Days:

• Chinese New Year - variable date
• EDSA Revolution Anniversary - February 25
• Black Saturday - variable date
• All Saints' Day - November 1
• All Souls' Day - November 2
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception - December 8
• Christmas Eve - December 24
• New Year's Eve - December 31

Overall, the proclamation declaring regular holidays and special non-working days is a welcome move by the government. By providing citizens with a clear outline of the country's holidays, the government is promoting work-life balance, cultural awareness, and economic growth.