Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 291)
The main purpose is to recognize Muslim holidays as part of the Philippine national holidays, particularly in provinces and cities with significant Muslim populations.
The recognized Muslim holidays are Eid-ul-Adha (Hariraya Haji), Muharram (Ashura), Eid-e-Milad-un Nabi (Ascension), Eid-ul Fitr, and Maulod-en-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday).
Muslim holidays are officially observed in provinces such as Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga del Norte, and in Muslim cities including Iligan City, Marawi City, Zamboanga City, Basilan City, Cotabato City, and General Santos City.
Yes, Muslim holidays may be officially observed in other provinces or cities where there is a significant Muslim population or upon request by Muslim residents and proclamation by the President.
The dates are determined according to the Muslim Lunar Calendar, the appearance of the moon, or Islamic astronomical calculations, as applicable. The dates must be advised to the President by the Muslim community or the Islamic Directorate of the Philippines by January 15 each year.
Muslim government employees outside the designated areas are excused from reporting to work to observe Muslim holidays.
Yes, the President may issue a proclamation allowing Muslim employees in private offices, agencies, or establishments to be excused from work without loss of pay during Muslim holidays.
The Office of the President supervises the implementation of the decree, in consultation with leaders of the Muslim community.
All such laws, executive orders, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this decree are repealed or modified accordingly.
The decree took effect immediately upon its signing on September 12, 1973.