On November 2, 2023, Filipinos across the nation will observe a special non-working holiday in commemoration of All Souls’ Day, also known as “Araw ng mga Patay” or “Undas.” This holiday was officially declared by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. through Proclamation 42, which was signed the previous year. This proclamation ensures that Filipinos have the opportunity to honor their deceased loved ones in cemeteries.
All Souls’ Day falls on Thursday this year, conveniently following All Saints’ Day, a day dedicated to remembering and honoring saints. The special non-working holiday on November 2 allows Filipinos to continue the tradition of visiting cemeteries to pay their respects to departed family members and friends.
Pay Rules for Undas – November 2, 2023
According to the 2023 edition of the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Handbook on Workers’ Statutory Monetary Benefits, the “no work, no pay” principle applies to special non-working holidays like this year’s All Souls’ Day.
Workers not required to work on November 2 in the Philippines won’t receive compensation, except for agreements or policies.
The handbook also specifies that employees who do work on special non-working days like All Souls’ Day must receive an additional pay of 30% for every hour of service rendered.
Is All Souls’ Day a Public Holiday?
All Souls’ Day is indeed a public holiday in the Philippines. On this day, the general population enjoys a day off, and both schools and most businesses remain closed. It is a time when people come together to remember and pray for the deceased.
What Do People Do?
In the Philippines, All Souls’ Day is a solemn occasion when people visit cemeteries to pay their respects to the dead. They often light candles, offer prayers, and leave flowers at the graves of their loved ones. This day is closely connected with All Saints’ Day, which falls on the day before and involves decorating the graves with candles and other offerings.
While the observance of All Souls’ Day varies in different countries, it’s a time for honoring the deceased and providing comfort for their souls.
Background
All Souls’ Day has a long history, with roots dating back to 993 CE when it was first instituted at the monastery in Cluny, France. Over time, it spread throughout the Christian world. Saint Odilo, the abbot of Cluny, proposed the idea. He suggested setting aside the day after All Saints’ Day to honor the departed, especially those believed to be in purgatory. Today, the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox traditions primarily observe it, although some Protestants also informally commemorate the day.
In conclusion, November 2, 2023, is indeed a special non-working holiday in the Philippines, dedicated to the commemoration of All Souls’ Day. Filipinos will have the opportunity to remember and honor their departed loved ones on this important day of reflection and prayer.
See the full list of November holidays here: LIST: November 2023 Holidays in the Philippines
Also read: Is November 1, 2023, a Holiday in the Philippines?
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