Malacañang Palace has released a new set of Presidential Proclamations, establishing special non-working holidays across several cities and municipalities in the Philippines for November and December 2024. These proclamations, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin under the authority of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., are expected to provide residents of these areas with time to commemorate significant local events, promote cultural traditions, and facilitate community celebrations. The declarations cover dates significant to various provinces and municipalities, enhancing the opportunity for local events and gatherings.
November 2024 Special Non-Working Holidays
The list of holidays begins with several dates in November, catering to diverse local communities:
- November 8, 2024 – A special non-working day has been declared in the Municipality of Tanay, Rizal, under Proclamation No. 725. This holiday allows Tanay residents to celebrate a local event, enhancing community participation.
- November 12, 2024 – In Valenzuela City, Proclamation No. 711 declares a special non-working holiday. The holiday is expected to commemorate the city’s foundation or another historical event of significance.
- November 15, 2024 – Proclamation No. 712 declares a non-working day in the Province of Oriental Mindoro, encouraging residents to honor a local celebration. Additionally, the City of Borongan in Eastern Samar observes its special day under Proclamation No. 726.
- November 22, 2024 – This day marks a unique holiday for three areas: the City of Palayan in Nueva Ecija (Proclamation No. 713), the Municipality of Itogon in Benguet (Proclamation No. 715), and the Municipality of Tublay, also in Benguet (Proclamation No. 716). These holidays allow these areas to celebrate regional events simultaneously.
- November 23, 2024 – A province-wide holiday is declared in Benguet under Proclamation No. 717, giving all residents of the province a special day to observe local traditions.
- November 25, 2024 – Proclamation No. 718 establishes a holiday in the Municipality of Maragusan, Davao de Oro, providing an opportunity for residents to celebrate the town’s history or a local festival.
- November 26, 2024 – The City of Dasmariñas in Cavite observes a holiday on this day, under Proclamation No. 719, offering residents time for local festivities.
- November 28, 2024 – Two areas observe holidays on this date: Sarangani Province (Proclamation No. 720) and the Municipality of Piñan in Zamboanga del Norte (Proclamation No. 721), each marking their distinct events.
December 2024 Special Non-Working Holidays
The declarations extend into December, beginning with an additional holiday for Palayan City:
- December 5, 2024 – Palayan City in Nueva Ecija has another special holiday under Proclamation No. 714, encouraging the celebration of local heritage or community achievements.
Additional Nationwide Observances
Apart from these special local holidays, President Marcos Jr. has also proclaimed several national observances to be marked annually:
- National Myopia Consciousness Week (Proclamation No. 722) is designated for the second week of October each year. This observance aims to raise awareness about myopia (nearsightedness) and encourage preventive eye health measures.
- Transport Cooperative Day (Proclamation No. 723) is set for October 19 each year. This day emphasizes the role of transport cooperatives in the country’s transportation sector, promoting cooperation and service quality.
- Philippine Architecture Festival – National Architecture Month (Proclamation No. 724) will be celebrated each December, honoring the contributions of Filipino architects and promoting architectural heritage.
Implications of the New Holidays
The Presidential Proclamations mark both specific and recurring holidays, reflecting the administration’s recognition of regional histories, cultural diversity, and the contributions of various sectors in the Philippines. These holidays offer communities an opportunity to gather, celebrate local pride, and preserve traditions unique to each area. For Filipinos nationwide, these holidays contribute to a greater awareness of local customs and festivities, promoting unity within diverse localities.