With the fast approaching celebration of the Chinese New Year in the country, it begs the question: Is February 9, 2024, a holiday in the Philippines? Short answer: Yes.
To allow Filipinos the ample time to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, Malacañang has issued Proclamation No. 453, declaring Friday, February 9, 2024, a holiday (special non-working day) throughout the entire country.
“The declaration of 09 February 2024, Friday, as an additional special non-working day throughout the country will give the people the full opportunity to celebrate the Chinese New Year and enable our countrymen to avail of the benefits of a longer weekend,” read the proclamation signed by the President and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
This decision complements the earlier declaration of February 10, 2024, as a special non-working day in celebration of the Chinese New Year, falling on a Saturday.
Also Read: Is February 8, 2024, a holiday in the Philippines?
Signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on January 18, 2024, the proclamation emphasizes that designating February 9 as an additional special non-working day aims to provide the people with a full opportunity to partake in the festivities surrounding the Chinese New Year.
Additionally, it enables citizens to enjoy the benefits of an extended weekend for a more inclusive and joyous celebration.
Moreover, the announcement directs the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to issue a corresponding circular, ensuring the implementation of the proclamation within the private sector. This includes guidelines for holiday pay to guarantee that employees receive their due benefits during the special non-working day.
The Chinese New Year, rooted in the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, marks the beginning of a new year. Celebrated with various cultural and festive activities, this proclamation recognizes the importance of preserving and honoring cultural traditions.
As the nation looks forward to the holiday on February 9, 2024, citizens are encouraged to take part in the rich cultural festivities and enjoy a well-deserved extended weekend.
Keep Reading: LIST: Regular Holidays and Special (Non-Working) Days for 2024
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