The Philippines, known for its extended holiday celebrations, has a packed December filled with regular and special non-working holidays.
According to the Official Gazette 2024, December holidays in the Philippines include several important dates that provide opportunities for rest, celebration, and reflection.
Regular Holidays:
- December 25 (Wednesday, Christmas Day): This universally celebrated holiday marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is a highlight of the Filipino Christmas season.
- December 30 (Monday, Rizal Day): A day to honor the life and legacy of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.
Special Non-Working Holidays:
- December 8 (Sunday, Feast of the Immaculate Conception): A special holiday recognizing the Virgin Mary. For 2024, the celebration will be moved to Monday, December 9, although this has yet to be officially declared.
- December 24 (Tuesday, Christmas Eve): A day often spent preparing for Noche Buena, a traditional Christmas Eve feast.
- December 31 (Tuesday, Last Day of the Year): A time for year-end celebrations and preparations for New Year’s festivities.
December Long Weekends
Mark your calendars for a five-day long weekend this December. It’s best that you plan ahead to make the most of this rare and festive break as the year transitions into 2025.
December 28, 2024 – January 1, 2025 | Five days | December 28 (Saturday) December 29 (Sunday) December 30 (Monday): Rizal Day December 31 (Tuesday): Last Day of the Year January 1 (Wednesday): New Year’s Day |
Also Read: Is December 8 a Holiday in the Philippines?
Labor Guidelines for December Holidays:
The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) emphasizes specific pay rules during these December holidays. Employees working on regular holidays like Christmas Day are entitled to double pay for the first eight hours of work.
For special non-working days, employees are entitled to an additional 30% of their basic wage if they report for work.
And as Filipinos prepare for these December holidays, it’s essential to stay updated with government proclamations. This is a must especially regarding December 9, which could be a holiday if declared by the Official Gazette 2024.
Also Read: Is December 9 (Feast of Immaculate Conception) a Holiday in the Philippines?
To know more about these holidays, check the details below!
Why is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception considered a special December holiday in the Philippines?
The feast is significant in the Philippines due to the country’s strong Catholic roots. It celebrates the Virgin Mary being conceived without original sin. Officially observed on December 8, the 2024 celebration may be transferred to December 9.
This adjustment highlights the importance of consulting the Official Gazette 2024 for updates on holiday declarations.
How can workers maximize their earnings during December holidays?
Employees working during December holidays in the Philippines have opportunities for increased pay. According to DoLE, regular holidays entitle workers to double pay and special non-working holiday workers receive an additional % of their basic wage.
Keep Reading: Official List of Philippine Holidays in 2025
Leave a Reply