Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the complete list of holidays in the Philippines for 2023, including 13 long weekends. Long weekends are perfect opportunities for Filipinos to relax, unwind, and embark on new adventures. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway to a local beach, exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, or simply spending quality time with your loved ones, these holidays and long weekends offer a much-needed break from our busy lives.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of regular holidays, special non-working holidays, and additional holidays, as well as an overview of the 13 long weekends in 2023. Furthermore, we’ll share some top travel destinations and tips for planning your holidays, ensuring you make the most of these special occasions.
I – Regular Holidays
The Philippines has ten regular holidays for 2023. These holidays are mandated by law and often come with specific pay rules for employees. Below is the list of regular holidays and their respective dates:
- New Year’s Day – January 1 (Sunday)
- The first day of the year, celebrated by Filipinos with fireworks, family gatherings, and traditional food
- Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) – April 9 (Sunday)
- Commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino soldiers during World War II
- Maundy Thursday – April 13
- A Christian holiday that marks the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples
- Good Friday – April 14
- A solemn day of remembrance for the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ
- Labor Day – May 1 (Monday)
- A day to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Filipino workers
- Independence Day – June 12 (Monday)
- Commemorates the Philippines’ independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898
- National Heroes’ Day – August 28 (Last Monday of August)
- Honors the contributions of Philippine heroes and martyrs throughout history
- Bonifacio Day – November 30 (Thursday)
- Commemorates the birth of Andres Bonifacio, a key figure in the Philippine Revolution against Spain
- Christmas Day – December 25 (Monday)
- Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a major holiday for Filipinos with family gatherings and gift-giving
- Rizal Day – December 30 (Saturday)
- Honors the life and achievements of Dr. Jose Rizal, a national hero and symbol of Philippine nationalism
II – Special Non-Working Holidays
Special non-working holidays are days that the government has designated as non-working days but are not regular holidays. Employees who work on these days are usually entitled to additional pay. Here are the special non-working holidays for 2023:
- Chinese New Year – January 22 (Sunday)
- Celebrates the start of the Lunar New Year and is a significant holiday for Filipinos of Chinese descent
- EDSA Revolution Anniversary – February 25 (Saturday)
- Commemorates the People Power Revolution of 1986, a peaceful demonstration that ended the Marcos dictatorship
- Black Saturday – April 15
- The day before Easter Sunday, which commemorates the day when Jesus Christ’s body was laid in the tomb
- Ninoy Aquino Day – August 21 (Monday)
- Honors the life and sacrifice of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., whose assassination sparked the 1986 People Power Revolution
- All Saints’ Day – November 1 (Wednesday)
- A Christian holiday that honors all saints and martyrs, usually observed with visits to cemeteries and the offering of prayers and flowers to the departed
- All Souls’ Day – November 2 (Thursday)
- A day to remember and pray for the souls of the departed, often marked by the offering of masses and the lighting of candles
- Christmas Eve – December 24 (Sunday)
- The day before Christmas Day, often celebrated with midnight masses and family gatherings
- New Year’s Eve – December 31 (Sunday)
- The last day of the year, celebrated with fireworks, parties, and other festivities
III – Long Weekends in 2023
2023 is a great year for long weekends in the Philippines, with a total of 13 opportunities for extended vacations. Here are the long weekends in 2023:
- New Year’s Day – January 1 (Sunday)
- Long Weekend: December 31, 2022 to January 2, 2023
- Araw ng Kagitingan – April 9 (Sunday)
- Long Weekend: April 8 to 10
- Labor Day – May 1 (Monday)
- Long Weekend: April 29 to May 1
- Independence Day – June 12 (Monday)
- Long Weekend: June 10 to 12
- National Heroes’ Day – August 28 (Last Monday of August)
- Long Weekend: August 26 to 28
- All Saints’ Day – November 1 (Wednesday)
- Long Weekend: October 28 to November 1
- Bonifacio Day – November 30 (Thursday)
- Long Weekend: November 30 to December 3
- Christmas Day – December 25 (Monday)
- Long Weekend: December 23 to 25
- Rizal Day – December 30 (Saturday)
- Long Weekend: December 30, 2023 to January 1, 2024
- Chinese New Year – January 22 (Sunday)
- Long Weekend: January 21 to 23
- EDSA Revolution Anniversary – February 25 (Saturday)
- Long Weekend: February 25 to 27
- Ninoy Aquino Day – August 21 (Monday)
- Long Weekend: August 19 to 21
- All Souls’ Day – November 2 (Thursday)
- Long Weekend: November 2 to 5
With 13 long weekends in 2023, Filipinos have plenty of opportunities to explore the country’s diverse destinations, from white sandy beaches and natural wonders to historical sites and cultural landmarks. It’s a perfect time to make memories and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
IV – Additional Holidays (if applicable)
Aside from regular holidays and special non-working holidays, there may be additional holidays declared by the government throughout the year. Two such holidays in the Philippines are Eid’l Fitr and Eid’l Adha, which are Islamic holidays celebrated by Filipino Muslims.
The exact dates for Eid’l Fitr and Eid’l Adha are determined by the Islamic lunar calendar and are subject to change. These holidays are usually declared by the President of the Philippines based on recommendations from the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. In 2022, Eid’l Fitr was observed on May 3 and Eid’l Adha on July 20.
Stay updated on any additional holidays declared by the government to maximize your vacation time and plan your travels accordingly.
V – Top Travel Destinations for 2023 Long Weekends
Make the most of your long weekends by exploring some of the Philippines’ top travel destinations. Here are our recommendations, along with links to helpful travel guides:
- Boracay – A world-famous island paradise known for its stunning white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Palawan – Home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River and the stunning islands of El Nido and Coron.
- Cebu – A province rich in history and natural wonders, including whale shark encounters in Oslob and the majestic Kawasan Falls.
- Bohol – Discover the famous Chocolate Hills, tarsier sanctuaries, and pristine beaches on this beautiful island.
- Siargao – A surfer’s paradise with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
- Baguio – Escape the heat of the lowlands and enjoy the cool climate, parks, and cultural attractions of the “Summer Capital of the Philippines.”
VI – Tips for Planning Your 2023 Holidays
To make the most of your 2023 holidays and long weekends, keep these tips in mind:
- Create a budget and stick to it, considering transportation, accommodations, food, and activities.
- Book accommodations early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best deals and locations.
- Research and create itineraries that maximize your time and include a mix of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
- Utilize resources such as TripAdvisor and travel blogs for finding the best deals, experiences, and up-to-date information on your chosen destinations.
- Check for any travel restrictions, requirements, or advisories before finalizing your plans.
- Be flexible and open to changes in your itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances or new discoveries.
VII – Conclusion
With 13 long weekends in 2023, the Philippines offers numerous opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your holidays, discover new destinations, and make the most of these precious days off. So start planning now and make 2023 a year full of unforgettable memories and experiences.
VIII – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is holiday pay in the Philippines?
– Holiday pay is an additional compensation given to employees who work on a regular holiday. It is usually equivalent to twice their daily wage.
2. What if a regular holiday falls on my rest day?
– If a regular holiday falls on an employee’s rest day and they are required to work, they are entitled to an additional 30% of their daily wage.
3. Are employees required to work on special non-working holidays?
– Employees are not required to work on special non-working holidays unless their employer specifies otherwise. If they do work, they are entitled to an additional 30% of their daily wage.
4. Are there any other holidays that may be declared by the government?
– Yes, the government may declare additional holidays, such as Eid’l Fitr and Eid’l Adha, which are Islamic holidays. The dates for these holidays are determined by the sighting of the moon and may vary each year.
IX – References and Resources
- Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines – https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/
- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – https://www.dole.gov.ph/
- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) – https://pia.gov.ph/
- Department of Tourism – https://www.tourism.gov.ph/
