Palace Declares 2 Special Non-Working Holidays in Bicol Region
MANILA — The Palace has declared two special non-working holidays in the Bicol Region, giving workers and residents in the area additional days off to commemorate significant local celebrations. Among the declared holidays is June 24, designated as a special non-working day in Tabaco City, Albay — one of the key urban centers in the Bicol Region near Legazpi City.
The declaration was made through a presidential proclamation, in line with the tradition of recognizing founding anniversaries and other milestone celebrations of cities and municipalities across the Philippines. These special holidays allow communities to hold festivities, parades, and cultural events that honor their heritage and identity.
Tabaco City Celebrates June 24 Holiday
Tabaco City, a component city in Albay province, is among the beneficiaries of the declaration. June 24 has been set aside as a special non-working day for the city, allowing its residents to fully participate in local celebrations. Tabaco City is known for its rich cultural heritage, its historic St. John the Baptist Church, and its vibrant fishing and agricultural industries.
The holiday declaration means that employees in Tabaco City are entitled to their regular pay even if they do not work on the day, in accordance with Philippine labor laws governing special non-working holidays. Private sector employees who are required to work on the day are entitled to an additional 30 percent of their basic wage.
Impact on the Bicol Region
The declaration of special non-working holidays in Bicol is expected to provide a boost to local economies, as residents use the extra day off for family gatherings, travel, and community events. The Bicol Region, known for its iconic Mayon Volcano, spicy cuisine, and warm hospitality, is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Local government units in the region are expected to organize activities such as cultural shows, trade fairs, and civic ceremonies to mark the occasion. These events not only celebrate local identity but also promote tourism and economic activity in the area.
Other Declared Holidays
The Palace has also declared special non-working holidays in other parts of the country, including a June 24 special non-working holiday in Manila to mark the capital city’s 455th founding anniversary. These declarations are part of the annual tradition of recognizing the founding anniversaries of Philippine cities and municipalities.
For residents of Legazpi City and the rest of Albay province, the proximity of the Tabaco City holiday means that many may also participate in the celebrations or take advantage of the long weekend for travel and leisure within the region.
Planning Your Long Weekend
With the special non-working holiday falling on June 24, residents and visitors in the Bicol Region can look forward to a long weekend. Popular activities during such holidays in the region include visiting the iconic Mayon Volcano viewpoint in Legazpi City, exploring the Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga, sampling Bicol’s famous laing and Bicol Express dishes, and enjoying the pristine beaches of nearby towns.
Travelers are advised to plan ahead, as local tourist destinations and restaurants may experience higher-than-usual traffic during the holiday period.
— With reports from Philippine News Agency