In the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced a series of special non-working days in October, allowing various localities to engage in cultural and historical festivities. These designated holidays are intended to enable residents to participate in local celebrations, such as town fiestas, founding anniversaries, and commemorative events.
The schedule of non-working days kicks off on October 7 in Malita, Davao Occidental, where the community will celebrate its town fiesta. This is followed by a holiday on October 9 in San Isidro, Surigao del Norte, marking the 67th founding anniversary of the locality. On October 12, Talisay in Batangas will commemorate the historical Battle of Batangas.
Further into the month, Lapuyan in Zamboanga del Sur will observe its 69th founding anniversary on October 16. On October 20, Batac in Ilocos Norte will pay tribute to the 160th birth anniversary of General Artemio Ricarte. The following day, October 21, is set aside for the founding anniversary of Sibutu in Tawi-Tawi.
October 23 sees a dual celebration with Angeles City in Pampanga hosting the Tigtigan Terakan Keng Dalan Festival, while Narvacan in Ilocos Sur will celebrate the Aldaw Ti Wayawaya-lli A Narvacan. On October 28, Dingle in Iloilo will commemorate the Cry of Lincud, followed by the Sambuokan Festival in Mati City, Davao Oriental, on October 29.
These special non-working days were established through a series of presidential proclamations, underscoring the government’s recognition of local traditions and historical milestones. By granting these holidays, local communities are encouraged to embrace and celebrate their unique cultural heritage.
