MANILA – Malacañang has declared December 29, 2025 (Monday) and January 2, 2026 (Friday) as non-working days in government offices nationwide, providing a long holiday break to allow public servants and citizens to celebrate the New Year with family and loved ones. The suspension, announced on December 18, 2025, creates an extended weekend from December 27 (Saturday) to January 4 (Sunday), with only December 30 (Rizal Day) and January 1 (New Year’s Day) as official regular holidays.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed the memorandum citing Proclamation No. 727 (as amended), which authorizes additional special non-working days to promote domestic tourism and family bonding. The Palace emphasized the move’s benefits: “This extended break will give our workers time to rest, recharge, and spend meaningful moments with their families during the holiday season.”
Holiday Schedule Impact
- December 25 (Christmas) & 30 (Rizal Day): Regular holidays.
- December 29 & January 2: Special non-working days (government suspension).
- Private Sector: Encouraged but not mandatory; pay rules follow DOLE guidelines (no work, no pay unless company policy provides otherwise).
Essential services—hospitals, police, fire, disaster response, and utilities—remain operational. The suspension excludes agencies with critical functions like the Bureau of Customs and immigration for seamless holiday travel.
This extended break aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for work-life balance and economic stimulation through tourism. For millions of government employees, it’s a welcome respite amid year-end rushes.
Enjoy the long holidays responsibly—safe travels and happy celebrations!
2025-2026 Holiday Break Snapshot:
| Date | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 25, 2025 | Regular Holiday (Christmas) | Nationwide |
| Dec 29, 2025 | Special Non-Working (Gov’t) | Suspension announced |
| Dec 30, 2025 | Regular Holiday (Rizal Day) | Nationwide |
| Jan 1, 2026 | Regular Holiday (New Year) | Nationwide |
| Jan 2, 2026 | Special Non-Working (Gov’t) | Suspension announced |