Flocks of Filipino devotees are expected to converge in Manila for the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene, marking the revival of the celebrated Traslacion after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Consequently, Filipinos are asking whether today, January 9, 2024, is a holiday in the Philippines.

Proclamation No. 434 clarifies that Tuesday, January 9, 2024, is a holiday, particularly a special (non-working) day in the City of Manila.

This announcement from Malacañang was made on Thursday, January 4. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasized that this holiday aims to afford devotees in Manila the full opportunity to actively engage in the occasion and revel in the festivities.

The Traslacion involves the arduous transport of a 400-year-old black wooden replica of Jesus Christ’s statue to Quiapo Church through an extensive procession spanning over half a day, typically commencing at the Quirino Grandstand. The chosen theme for this year’s Traslacion is “Ibig Po Naming Makita si Hesus,” derived from John 12:21.

To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the feast, authorities have announced the deployment of approximately 16,000 policemen for the event. Additionally, a strict “no fly zone” policy will be implemented over the city to maintain security measures.

Moreover, the city government has issued an advisory urging devotees to wear face masks throughout the feast. This preventive measure aims to mitigate the risk of a potential surge in COVID-19 cases during the event.

Meanwhile, below is the list of Regular Holidays and Special non-working days in 2024 for your guide:

Regular Holidays in 2024

• New Year’s Day – January 1 (Monday)
• Maundy Thursday – March 28
• Good Friday – March 29
• Araw ng Kagitingan – April 9 (Tuesday)
• Labor Day – May 1 (Wednesday)
• Independence Day – June 12 (Wednesday)
• National Heroes Day – August 26 (Monday)

Special non-working days in 2024

• Ninoy Aquino Day – August 21 (Wednesday)
• All Saints’ Day – November 1 (Friday)
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary – December 8 (Sunday)
• Last day of the year – December 31 (Tuesday)

Additional Special non-working days in 2024

• Chinese New Year – February 10 (Saturday)
• Black Saturday – March 30
• All Souls’ Day – November 2 (Saturday)
• Christmas Eve – December 24 (Tuesday)

Sources: (1), (2)

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Also Read: Holiday Advisories in the Philippines