Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 654)
Proclamation No. 654 is a declaration by the Executive Secretary, by authority of the President of the Philippines, declaring January 21, 2019, Monday, as a special (non-working) day in the City of Lipa, Province of Batangas.
January 21, 2019, is declared a special (non-working) day to allow the people of the City of Lipa to celebrate the Makalanyog Festival with appropriate ceremonies.
January 20, 2019, fell on a Sunday, which is already a rest day; thus, January 21, 2019, the following Monday, was declared a special non-working day to enable proper celebration of the festival.
The President of the Philippines, through an authorized representative such as the Executive Secretary, has the authority to declare special (non-working) days in a city or province.
A special (non-working) day means employees are generally not required to work; if they do work, they are usually entitled to additional compensation under Philippine labor laws.
The President, by proclamation, may declare special (non-working) days to recognize important local festivals, events, or commemorations to allow the community to participate in the celebration.
The Office of the Mayor of the City of Lipa requested the declaration of January 21, 2019, as a special non-working day.
It is formalized by an official proclamation signed by the Executive Secretary on behalf of the President, and the seal of the Republic is affixed.
On a special (non-working) day, government offices and private businesses in the specified area may close or operate on a reduced schedule, impacting usual business and governmental operations.