With the nearing celebration of the Chinese New Year in the country, many Filipinos ask the question: Is February 9 and 10, 2024, a holiday in the Philippines? Short answer: Yes. As per Proclamation No. 368 s. 2023 and 453, s. 2024 posted through the Philippine Official Gazette, both February 9 and 10, 2024 are holidays.

Furthermore, various media outlets, including PhilStar and Manila Bulletin, have confirmed that both days are recognized as holidays in response to public inquiries. 

Is February 9 a holiday in the Philippines?

To allow Filipinos the ample time to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, Malacañang declared Friday, February 9, 2024, a holiday (special non-working day) throughout the entire country. 

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According to the proclamation signed by the President and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin last January 18, “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.” 

The declaration 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

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. This is to ensure 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.

Is February 10 a holiday in the Philippines?

With the Chinese New Year originally aligned on a Saturday, February 10 is indeed a holiday in the Philippines.

As stated in Proclamation 368, s. 2023, “On February 10, 2024, Chinese nationals all over the world will celebrate Spring Festival, properly known as Chinese New Year, which is one of the most revered and festive events celebrated not only in China but also in the Philippines, and such date may be declared as a special (non-working day) without detriment to the public interest.”

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.

The decision to make February 9 a holiday 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.

As the nation looks forward to the holiday, citizens are encouraged to take part in the rich cultural festivities. They are also to enjoy a well-deserved extended weekend.

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