In an effort to promote local participation in cultural and historical events, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced the declaration of several special non-working days across various localities in the Philippines throughout October. These holidays are designed to allow residents to engage in significant local festivals, anniversaries, and commemorative occasions.
The series of presidential proclamations covers several dates and locations. On October 7, Malita in Davao Occidental will observe a non-working day for its town fiesta. San Isidro in Surigao del Norte will mark its 67th founding anniversary on October 9. Talisay in Batangas will commemorate the historical Battle of Batangas on October 12.
Further declarations include October 16 in Lapuyan, Zamboanga del Sur, in honor of its 69th founding anniversary, and October 20 in Batac, Ilocos Norte, to celebrate the 160th birth anniversary of General Artemio Ricarte. Sibutu in Tawi-Tawi will observe its founding anniversary on October 21.
October 23 will be a day of celebration in Angeles City, Pampanga, for the Tigtigan Terakan Keng Dalan Festival, and in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, for the Aldaw Ti Wayawaya-lli A Narvacan celebration. Dingle in Iloilo will commemorate the Cry of Lincud on October 28, while Mati City in Davao Oriental will conclude the month’s special non-working days with the Sambuokan Festival on October 29.
These special non-working days provide an opportunity for local communities to come together and celebrate their rich heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for local traditions and historical events. By designating these days, the Philippine government emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and community involvement in national history and identity.