Malacañang has announced the declaration of special non-working holidays in five areas across the country for the celebration of local anniversaries and festivals in October 2024. This was made official through a series of proclamations signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin under the authority of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Special Holidays Declared:
1. October 1, 2024 (Gloria, Oriental Mindoro)
Through Proclamation No. 688, October 1 has been declared a special non-working holiday in the municipality of Gloria, Oriental Mindoro. This day will mark the celebration of the Kawayanan Festival, an event honoring the bamboo industry and local culture.
2. October 8, 2024 (Koronadal, South Cotabato)
Under Proclamation No. 689, the city of Koronadal, South Cotabato will commemorate its 24th Charter Anniversary on October 8. This special non-working holiday will allow the city’s residents to celebrate this milestone with a range of local events and activities.
3. October 12, 2024 (Pamplona, Negros Oriental)
In Proclamation No. 690, President Marcos declared October 12 as a special non-working holiday in Pamplona, Negros Oriental for the Yamog Festival, which highlights the agricultural abundance and vibrant traditions of the area.
4. October 21, 2024 (Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi)
Proclamation No. 691 sets October 21 as a special non-working day in the municipality of Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi. This is to celebrate the creation of the municipality, an important date in its local history.
5. October 21, 2024 (Pigcawayan, North Cotabato)
Proclamation No. 692 declares October 21 as a special non-working holiday in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato. The municipality will commemorate its 71st founding anniversary on October 20, which falls on a Sunday. The local government, through the Sangguniang Bayan, requested to shift the celebration to October 21 (Monday) to allow more residents to actively participate in the festivities.
The proclamations were signed on September 13, 2024, granting local communities in these five areas the opportunity to celebrate their unique cultural and historical heritage.
Residents of these municipalities are encouraged to take part in the celebrations, which will feature various events and activities that showcase their rich traditions, local products, and historical significance.