Overview: A Layer of Local Celebration Across Five Towns
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued proclamations declaring special non-working holidays in five municipalities across the country. The move is aimed at giving residents ample opportunity to participate in their founding anniversaries and local festivities, underscoring the government’s emphasis on local culture and community engagement.
Cotabato and Davao de Oro: Five Towns in Focus
In Cotabato and Davao de Oro, proclaimations were issued to mark distinct historic and cultural milestones. A special non-working holiday was declared for Antipas in Cotabato on October 14 to celebrate its founding anniversary. In Davao de Oro, Pantukan will observe a special non-working day on November 13 in conjunction with its 88th founding anniversary and the 23rd PASAKA Festival, a festive event that highlights local traditions and civic pride. Maragusan in Davao de Oro will observe a similar holiday on November 25 to honor Araw ng Maragusan, a day dedicated to the town’s history and community achievements.
Samar and Camarines Sur: Additional Local Observances
The proclamations also extend to Jiabong in Samar, where October 15 has been declared a special non-working day to celebrate its founding anniversary. Separately, Pili in Camarines Sur will observe October 24 as a special non-working day for the Cimarrones Festival, a regional event that draws participants from nearby communities and visitors interested in local culture and crafts.
Rationale: Why These Holidays Matter
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed the proclamations, explaining that these holidays are “fit and proper” to allow residents to actively participate in and enjoy their community celebrations. The approach recognizes the role of local traditions in fostering social cohesion, boosting communal pride, and supporting small businesses that thrive during festivals and gatherings.
What the Proclamations Signify for Local Governance
By designating these days as special non-working holidays, the national government signals respect for local governance and the cultural assets that define each town. Municipal officials can coordinate event schedules, traffic management, and safety measures to ensure smooth, welcoming celebrations for residents and visitors alike.
Implications for Residents and Businesses
For residents, these proclamations provide more time to participate in parades, street fairs, and religious or historical activities without the constraint of a standard workday. Local vendors, artisans, and food stall operators may benefit from the influx of attendees during multi-day celebrations. Tourists looking to experience regional Filipino culture can also plan visits around these dates.
Looking Ahead
As local leaders prepare for these observances, communities may rollout additional activities, cultural showcases, and inter-town collaborations that highlight the diverse heritage across regions like Cotabato, Davao de Oro, Samar, and Camarines Sur. The government’s pronouncements are likely to support these efforts, reinforcing the value of community participation in nation-building.
