Is December 8, 2023 a holiday?
By virtue of Republic Act 10966, the government has officially declared December 8 every year as a special non-working holiday throughout the entire country. This annual observance commemorates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the Principal Patroness of the Philippines.
This special non-working holiday was signed into law in 2017 by then-President Rodrigo Duterte.
This law underscores the country’s commitment to honoring its religious heritage and fostering unity among its predominantly Catholic population.
#WalangPasok December 8, 2023 | Feast of the Immaculate Conception ( Special Non-Working Day )
Celebrated on December 8th each year, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception commemorates the belief in the immaculate conception of the Virgin Mary, signifying her being conceived without original sin. The government’s declaration of a Special Non-Working Day on this occasion recognizes the sacred nature of the event and emphasizes its importance in the lives of millions of Filipinos.
With the declaration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception as a Special Non-Working Day, Filipinos are provided with the opportunity for deeper spiritual reflection and devotion.
The government’s declaration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception as a Special Non-Working Day reflects an understanding of the integral role of religious observance in the lives of Filipinos. It highlights the commitment to respecting and preserving the diverse cultural and religious traditions that shape the nation.
SOURCE: REPUBLIC ACT No. 10966