Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 497)
The main purpose of Proclamation No. 497 is to declare Thursday, April 4, 2024, a special (non-working) day in the City of Antipolo, Province of Rizal, to mark and celebrate its 26th Cityhood Anniversary.
The President of the Philippines has the authority to declare a special (non-working) day, typically exercised through the issuance of a proclamation signed and promulgated by the Executive Secretary or the President himself/herself.
A 'special (non-working) day' is a day declared by the government where work is not required but where it is optional to work. Employees who do not work on this day are usually entitled to their daily wage, but those who do work may receive additional pay as prescribed by law or company policy.
This declaration allows the people of Antipolo to fully participate in and enjoy the celebration of their city's 26th Cityhood Anniversary, promoting local pride and community spirit.
Proclamation No. 497 was signed by Lucas P. Bersamin, who is the Executive Secretary of the Philippines at the time of issuance.
By declaring April 4, 2024, a special (non-working) day in Antipolo City, employees in that city who do not work are generally entitled to their regular wages, while those who work may receive additional compensation as guided by existing labor laws and company policies.
No, Proclamation No. 497 specifically applies only to the City of Antipolo, Province of Rizal, and not to the entire country.
A cityhood anniversary can be declared a special non-working day based on the significance of the occasion as a local celebration, which the government can recognize through a proclamation by the President or authorized official.
The proclamation must be issued under the authority of the President, signed by the Executive Secretary or the President, and officially promulgated with the seal of the Republic affixed. The declaration is typically published or announced to inform the public.
The proclamation was made by authority of the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., through the Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin.