The Philippines is a country in Southeast Asia known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality. It is also a country that celebrates numerous public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are an important part of Filipino culture and are observed by both the government and the people.
Here is a list of the Philippines’ public holidays and their significance:
- New Year’s Day (January 1) – This holiday marks the beginning of the new year and is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and family gatherings.
- Feast of the Black Nazarene (January 9) – This holiday is a religious celebration in honor of the Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ believed to have miraculous powers. Millions of devotees participate in the procession of the statue through the streets of Manila.
- Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) – The date of this holiday varies each year but usually falls between late January to mid-February. It is a significant holiday for the Chinese-Filipino community and is celebrated with dragon and lion dances, traditional food, and red decorations.
- EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary (February 25) – This holiday commemorates the peaceful revolution in 1986 that overthrew the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos and restored democracy in the Philippines.
- Maundy Thursday (Thursday before Easter Sunday) – This holiday marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, a three-day period of religious observances leading up to Easter Sunday.
- Good Friday (Friday before Easter Sunday) – This holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is observed with solemn processions and church services.
- Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) (April 9) – This holiday honors the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers during World War II.
- Labor Day (May 1) – This holiday celebrates the contributions of workers to the country’s economy and society.
- Independence Day (June 12) – This holiday commemorates the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898.
- Eid al-Fitr (Date varies) – This holiday marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a significant holiday for the Muslim community in the Philippines.
- National Heroes Day (Last Monday of August) – This holiday honors all the heroes who fought for the country’s freedom and independence.
- Bonifacio Day (November 30) – This holiday commemorates the birth of Andres Bonifacio, a Filipino revolutionary leader and one of the country’s national heroes.
- Christmas Eve (December 24) – This holiday is celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving, and the traditional midnight mass called “Simbang Gabi.”
- Christmas Day (December 25) – This holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed with feasting, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones.
- Rizal Day (December 30) – This holiday commemorates the death of Jose Rizal, a Filipino nationalist and writer who played a significant role in the country’s struggle for independence.
In addition to these public holidays, there are also regional holidays that are observed in specific provinces or cities. These include:
- Araw ng Davao (March 16) – This holiday celebrates the foundation day of Davao City.
- Kadayawan Festival (August) – This holiday is a week-long celebration in Davao City that showcases the culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes in the region.
- MassKara Festival (October) – This holiday is a colorful and lively festival in Bacolod City that features street dancing, parades, and other cultural activities.
- Sinulog Festival (January) – This holiday is a grand celebration in Cebu City that honors the Santo Niño (Child Jesus).
Public holidays in the Philippines are an important part of the country’s culture and history. They provide opportunities for Filipinos to come together, celebrate, and reflect on their shared values and traditions. These holidays also serve as a reminder of the country’s rich heritage and diverse cultural influences.
Here is a list of Philippines Public Holidays 2023:
| Date | Day | Holiday | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1, 2023 | Sunday | New Year’s Day | Celebrates the start of the new year. |
| January 2, 2023 | Monday | Special Non-working Day | Day after New Year’s Day. |
| January 9, 2023 | Monday | Santo Niño Day | Celebrates the Feast of the Holy Child Jesus. |
| January 27, 2023 | Friday | EDSA Revolution Day | Commemorates the overthrow of President Ferdinand Marcos in 1986. |
| February 7, 2023 | Tuesday | Chinese New Year | Celebrates the start of the Chinese lunar new year. |
| April 9, 2023 | Sunday | Araw ng Kagitingan | Commemorates the fall of Bataan and the bravery of Filipino and American troops during World War II. |
| April 10, 2023 | Monday | Mahal na Araw | Celebrates the Holy Day of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| April 11, 2023 | Tuesday | Black Saturday | Marks the day before Easter Sunday. |
| April 12, 2023 | Wednesday | Pasko ng Pagkabuhay | Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. |
| May 1, 2023 | Monday | Labor Day | Celebrates the contributions and achievements of workers. |
| May 9, 2023 | Tuesday | Independence Day | Commemorates the proclamation of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898. |
| May 26, 2023 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr | Celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. |
| June 12, 2023 | Monday | Independence Day | Commemorates the proclamation of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898. |
| August 28, 2023 | Monday | National Heroes Day | Celebrates the lives and achievements of Filipino national heroes. |
| November 1, 2023 | Wednesday | All Saints’ Day | Celebrates the lives of all saints. |
| November 2, 2023 | Thursday | All Souls’ Day | Celebrates the souls of all the faithful departed. |
| December 25, 2023 | Monday | Christmas Day | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Notes:
- Regular holidays are non-working days for all government offices and most businesses.
- Special non-working days are non-working days for government offices only.
- Some local governments may also declare additional holidays.
- Please check with your employer or the Philippine government for the latest information on holidays.
