Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 163)
The purpose is to declare Saturday, 18 March 2023, a special (non-working) day in the Province of Masbate in celebration of its 122nd Founding Anniversary.
The President of the Philippines, through an official proclamation or order issued by the Executive Secretary by authority of the President, has the authority to declare a special (non-working) day.
During a special (non-working) day, employees are generally not required to work, but if they do, they must be compensated accordingly as per the Labor Code provisions. It allows people to participate in celebrations or observances.
It was declared to give the people of Masbate full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the 122nd Founding Anniversary with appropriate ceremonies.
Lucas P. Bersamin, the Executive Secretary, signed the proclamation by authority of the President.
Affixing the seal signifies the official and formal enactment of the proclamation as a government-issued directive.
No, it specifically applies only to the Province of Masbate.
A special (non-working) day usually means work is suspended but the payment rules differ: employees not working are not entitled to pay unless otherwise stated; if they work, they receive extra pay. Regular holidays generally require payment even if the employee does not work.
The proclamation itself usually does not specify penalties, but non-compliance with labor laws regarding payment during special days may result in sanctions under the Labor Code.