As the December holidays in 2024 approach, many wonder if December 8 will be declared a holiday in the Philippines this year.

So, is December 8 a holiday in the Philippines? The answer depends on the nature of the holiday being referred to. 

According to the Official Gazette, December 8 marks the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, a significant religious event for Catholics. However, the holiday is moved to December 9 due to the liturgical celebration of the feast.

Also Read: Is November 29, 2024 a Holiday in the Philippines?

In 2024, December 8 in the Philippines falls on a Sunday. In a circular from November 14, the Archdiocese of Manila stated that according to the Liturgical Calendar. The Sunday of Advent has priority over the solemnity if both occur on the same day.

That said, December 9 is considered as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception holiday. With the celebration moved to Monday, the archdiocese stated that the faithful must attend church that day.

But it is worth noting that Malacañang hasn’t reported if the holiday will be moved to Monday. Afterall, December 8 is still a special non-working holiday across the Philippines which is under Republic Act 10966.

Looking ahead to the December 2024 holiday season, there are other significant public holidays. These are Christmas Day on December 25 and Rizal Day on December 30.

Unlike December 9, these holidays are widely recognized across the country and are typically observed with government offices, schools, and businesses closed. 

So while December 9 may hold religious importance for many, it won’t be a day off for most Filipinos in 2024 if Malacañang doesn’t issue any holiday declaration.

Also Read: Is November 30, 2024, a Holiday in the Philippines?

If you’re curious about the significance of December 9 holiday in the Philippines, here is additional information on the date:

How does the fact that December 8 falls on a Sunday affect the holiday observance?

Since December 8 falls on a Sunday in 2024, it does not affect the typical workweek schedule for most people. In the Philippines, when holidays coincide with weekends, there is no automatic replacement day off unless specifically declared by the government. Fortunately, the holiday has been moved to December 9, Monday. It will be celebrated by those observing the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

If December 8 isn’t a nationwide holiday, can certain areas still declare it a holiday?

Yes, certain localities in the Philippines may choose to recognize December 8 as a special holiday, particularly if they have a large Catholic population or if local leaders decide to observe it. 

Even though the government haven’t declared the current changes of the holiday date, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception holiday is now on December 9.

Are there any other holidays in December 2024 that might provide a longer break for Filipinos?

Several key holidays in December 2024 remain. This include Christmas Day on December 25 and New Year’s Eve on December 31. These holidays will likely provide extended breaks, with businesses and schools closed. It allows Filipinos to enjoy the festive season with family and friends.

Sources: (1), (2)

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Keep Reading: Official List of Philippine Holidays in 2025