Public Holidays in the Philippines in 2024

The Philippines, a vibrant archipelago in Southeast Asia, celebrates a multitude of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the nation’s rich cultural diversity, historical events, and religious traditions. From commemorating independence to observing Catholic feasts and honoring national heroes, these holidays hold significant importance for Filipinos. Below is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in the Philippines for the year 2024.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day (Araw ng Bagong Taon) – January 1st

New Year’s Day is celebrated in the Philippines as the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a time for gatherings with family and friends, festive meals, and cultural events. Many Filipinos attend parties or participate in public celebrations, including fireworks displays and street festivals, to welcome the new year.

Maundy Thursday (Huwebes Santo) – April 18th

Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is observed by Christians worldwide as the day of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. In the Philippines, it is a time for religious observance and reflection. Many Filipinos attend church services and participate in ceremonies commemorating Jesus washing the feet of his disciples and instituting the sacrament of the Eucharist.

Good Friday (Biyernes Santo) – April 19th

Good Friday is observed by Christians worldwide as the day of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death. In the Philippines, it is a solemn day of prayer and penance. Many people participate in religious processions, reenacting the Stations of the Cross, and attend church services to commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Some communities also organize Passion plays or engage in acts of charity and compassion.

Labor Day (Araw ng Paggawa) – May 1st

Labor Day is celebrated worldwide to honor the contributions of workers to society. In the Philippines, it is a public holiday marked by rallies, parades, and speeches organized by trade unions and labor organizations. Workers advocate for labor rights, fair wages, and social justice during these events. Many Filipinos also use Labor Day as an opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends.

Independence Day (Araw ng Kalayaan) – June 12th

Independence Day commemorates the declaration of independence from Spain on June 12th, 1898. It is one of the most important national holidays in the Philippines, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. Festivities include flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, parades, and traditional dances. Filipinos pay tribute to the country’s founding fathers and heroes and reaffirm their commitment to the nation’s sovereignty and freedom.

National Heroes Day (Araw ng mga Bayani) – August 26th

National Heroes Day honors the men and women who played significant roles in Philippine history and contributed to the country’s development and freedom. It is a day to commemorate national heroes such as José Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Apolinario Mabini. Many Filipinos visit monuments and shrines dedicated to these heroes, attend wreath-laying ceremonies, and participate in patriotic events to honor their memory and legacy.

Bonifacio Day (Araw ng Kapanganakan ni Bonifacio) – November 30th

Bonifacio Day commemorates the birth of Andrés Bonifacio, a key figure in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonization. Bonifacio was a leader of the Katipunan, a revolutionary society that fought for Philippine independence in the late 19th century. On Bonifacio Day, Filipinos pay tribute to his contributions to the nation’s struggle for freedom through ceremonies, parades, and historical reenactments.

Christmas Day (Araw ng Pasko) – December 25th

Christmas Day is celebrated by Christians worldwide as the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Philippines, it is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Many people decorate their homes with Christmas decorations and lights, and gifts are exchanged among family members and friends. Some communities also organize Christmas concerts, nativity plays, and processions to celebrate the holiday spirit.

Rizal Day (Araw ng Kabayanihan ni Dr. Jose Rizal) – December 30th

Rizal Day commemorates the life and martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines. Rizal was a writer, philosopher, and revolutionary who advocated for reforms and independence during the Spanish colonial period. Filipinos honor his legacy on Rizal Day through wreath-laying ceremonies, cultural programs, and educational activities that highlight his ideals of freedom, justice, and national pride.

Conclusion

The Philippines observes a diverse array of public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, historical, and religious significance. These holidays provide opportunities for Filipinos to come together, celebrate their heritage, and honor their traditions. Whether commemorating independence, paying tribute to national heroes, or observing religious festivals, public holidays in the Philippines play an integral role in fostering unity, pride, and national identity.

Public Holiday	Date	Days Off	Groups Celebrating
New Year’s Day	January 1	1	All
Maundy Thursday	April 18	1	Christians, All
Good Friday	April 19	1	Christians, All
Labor Day	May 1	1	Workers, All
Independence Day	June 12	1	All
National Heroes Day	August 26	1	All
Bonifacio Day	November 30	1	All
Christmas Day	December 25	1	Christians, All
Rizal Day	December 30	1	All