Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 1236)
The President can declare holidays by virtue of the powers vested by the Constitution of the Philippines, as per Proclamation No. 1236 and the Administrative Code of 1987.
The basis includes Republic Act No. 9492 (Administrative Code amendments), RA No. 9849 for Eidul Adha, and traditional and cultural significances such as Holy Week observances and national events.
Regular holidays include New Year's Day, Araw ng Kagitingan, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Labor Day, Independence Day, National Heroes Day, Bonifacio Day, Christmas Day, and Rizal Day.
Special (non-working) days include Chinese New Year, EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary, Black Saturday, Ninoy Aquino Day, All Saint's Day, and Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary.
Special (working) days are All Soul's Day, Christmas Eve, and Last Day of the Year.
Special (working) days aim to minimize work disruption and encourage economic productivity, especially to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic's economic impact.
The dates are determined based on the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or lunar calendar, or Islamic astronomical calculations, with recommendations by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos to the Office of the President.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is responsible for promulgating the implementing guidelines for this proclamation.
The Proclamation took effect immediately upon its signing on October 29, 2021.
Publication ensures public awareness and official promulgation of the holidays declared, making the proclamation enforceable and known to all concerned parties.