Concept

Discussion

Holiday Economics
(RA No. 9492)

In 2007, the Philippines passed a “Holiday Economics” law (Republic Act No. 9492, “An Act Rationalizing the Celebration of National Holidays”). The purpose of this law was to boost domestic tourism by creating 3-day weekends. This was to be accomplished by celebrating most holidays on Mondays.

The law designated 11 “Regular Holidays” and 3 “Nationwide Special Days”.

Holidays Scheduled by Presidential Proclamation

While the “Holiday Economics” law specifies which holidays are to be observed on specific dates, which ones have moveable dates, and which ones will be observed on the nearest Monday, these rules have not been rigorously observed in practice. For example, the law states that Labor Day was to be celebrated on the Monday nearest May 1, but Presidential Proclamation has kept the celebration on May 1.

In practice, holidays have been set each year by Presidential Proclamation under the law’s provision that the specified holiday dates shall be observed as specified “unless otherwise modified by law, order or proclamation”.

Regular Holidays

New Year’s Day, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Eidul Fitr, Araw ng Kagitingan (Bataan and Corregidor Day), Labor Day, Independence Day, National Heroes Day, Bonifacio Day, Christmas Day, Rizal Day

Nationwide Special Holidays

Ninoy Aquino Day, All Saints Day, Last Day of the Year

Additional Non-Working Holidays

Additional Special (Non-Working) Days can be declared by Presidential Proclamation in advance or on short notice.

Recent Examples:

• When Christmas Day (always on December 25) falls on a Friday, December 24 may be declared a special non-working day to provide a 4-day weekend
• Barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan elections
• EDSA People Power Revolution Day
• Funerals of important people (Ka Erdy Manalo, Corazon Aquino)
• Presidential Inauguration