Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 693)
Proclamation No. 693 declares March 19, 2019, a special (non-working) day specifically in the City of Canlaon, Province of Negros Oriental.
The President of the Philippines, through the Executive Secretary or other authorized official, has the authority to declare special (non-working) days by issuing a proclamation.
The special non-working day was declared to allow the celebration of the Pasayaw Festival in the City of Canlaon.
Declaring a special (non-working) day generally means that employees are not required to work on that day, though specific rules on payment and work may vary under Philippine labor laws.
Salvador C. Medialdea, the Executive Secretary, signed the proclamation by authority of the President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
No, it only applies to the City of Canlaon, Province of Negros Oriental.
It allows citizens to participate in cultural activities and promotes local heritage, economic activity, and community spirit, with recognized legal observance such as non-working status.
The Pasayaw Festival was celebrated on March 19, 2019.
A regular holiday usually mandates no work with premium pay if worked, while on a special (non-working) day, work is not required but if employees do work, they may be entitled to additional pay at a lower premium rate.
While local government units can request or suggest such declarations, the formal authority to declare special non-working days rests with the President via proclamation.