In a move to give public servants ample time to celebrate the coming year, the Philippine government has officially declared two additional non-working days for all its offices. The announcement, made directly from Malacañang, provides a longer festive break for thousands of state workers across the nation.
Official Memorandum from the Executive Secretary
The directive was formalized through Memorandum Circular No. 111, s. 2025, which was issued and dated on December 18, 2025. The circular carries the signature of Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, authorizing the suspension of work for the specified dates.
According to the memorandum, all government offices will be closed on Monday, December 29, 2025, and Friday, January 2, 2026. This suspension applies to national and local government agencies, providing a uniform schedule for the extended holiday period.
Purpose Behind the Extended Holiday Break
The primary goal of the order is to grant government employees a meaningful opportunity to welcome the New Year with their families and loved ones. The Palace specifically noted that the longer break is intended to facilitate travel, especially for those who need to journey to distant provinces or hometowns after the celebrations.
This strategic scheduling creates a more extended contiguous holiday period around the New Year, reducing the need for employees to file for extensive leave. It acknowledges the significant tradition of family reunions and provincial homecomings, or "pamamanhikan," that define the Filipino holiday season.
Impact and Implications for the Public
While the memorandum ensures a well-deserved rest for public sector workers, citizens are advised to plan ahead for transactions requiring government services. The closure will affect:
- License and permit applications
- Document processing at civil registries
- Transactions in social service agencies
- Business-related filings with national offices
The public is encouraged to complete any urgent government business before December 29 or to schedule it after January 2. The announcement is standard practice for the administration, aligning with previous years' efforts to promote work-life balance and recognize the cultural importance of major holidays.
This government holiday declaration underscores the state's commitment to the welfare of its workforce, allowing them to recharge fully before the start of the new calendar year's duties.
