The Philippine government, through Malacañang, has issued a series of proclamations designating special non-working days in various localities throughout 2026. This move aims to allow residents to fully participate in and celebrate their unique local festivals, founding anniversaries, and commemorative events.
List of Proclaimed Special Non-Working Days
The proclamations, signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto by the authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., cover a diverse range of celebrations across the archipelago. The official declarations ensure that public and private sector employees in these areas can join the festivities without work obligations.
January to February 2026 Celebrations
The schedule begins early in the year. San Pablo City, Laguna observed a special non-working day on January 15 for its Coconut Festival, as per Proclamation No. 1133.
Following that, January 22 was set aside for Guiguinto, Bulacan to mark its Halamanan Festival under Proclamation No. 1131.
The declarations continue into February. February 2 is a holiday in two locations: Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte for its 112th Araw ng Katipunan (Proclamation No. 1135) and Mabalacat City, Pampanga for its 314th founding anniversary (Proclamation No. 1139).
February 3 is a special non-working day for Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija to celebrate its 76th founding anniversary, declared under Proclamation No. 1138.
February 6 is reserved for Consolacion, Cebu to mark its 106th founding anniversary through Proclamation No. 1136.
Key Festivals and Anniversaries
Several proclamations highlight significant cultural and historical events. February 10 is Bacolor Day in Bacolor, Pampanga (Proclamation No. 1129).
On February 11, Candoni, Negros Occidental will hold a special non-working day for the Dinagyaw sa Tablas Festival (Proclamation No. 1137). This festival honors the early settlers who transformed forestlands into thriving, fertile communities.
February 17 is the date for Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay to celebrate Araw ng Kabasalan, as stated in Proclamation No. 1132.
The province of Marinduque will observe Araw ng Marinduque on February 21 under Proclamation No. 1130.
Later in the year, San Pablo City, Laguna will have another special non-working day on May 7 for its city charter anniversary, pursuant to Proclamation No. 1134.
Significance of the Proclamations
These presidential proclamations are a regular practice that recognizes the importance of local heritage and community spirit. By declaring special non-working days, the national government supports cultural preservation and provides opportunities for economic activity tied to tourism and local commerce during festivals.
The announcements help residents and visitors plan ahead, ensuring maximum participation in events that define local identity and history across the Philippines.
