MANILA—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially declared the holidays for 2026 under Proclamation No. 1006, providing Filipinos with a roadmap for planning vacations and extended breaks

Regular Holidays

January 1 - New year’s Day

Arpil 2 - Maundy Thursday

April 3 - Good Friday

April 9 - Araw ng Kagitingan

May 1 - Labor Day

June 12 - Independence Day

August 31 - National Heroes Day

November 30 - Bonifacio Day

December 25 - Christmas Day

December 30 - Rizal Day

Special Working Day

February 25 - EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary

Special Non-Working Days

August 21 - Ninoy Aquino Day

November 1 - All Saint’s Day

December 8 - Feast of Immaculate Concepcion of Mary

December 31 - Last Day of the Year

Additional Special Non-Working Days

February 17 - Chinese New Year

April 4 - Black Saturday

November 2 - All Souls Day

December 24 - Christmas Eve

Nature trips recommended for holiday breaks

Philippine Psychiatric Association President Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal recommends nature-based activities for maximizing rest during holidays.

Green environments like parks, forests, riversides, and seasides promote relaxation and lower cortisol levels, the body's stress hormone. Reduced cortisol can boost endorphins, which enhance mood and wellbeing.

She also added that exposure to sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon may help to regulate serotonin. 

“Sunlight is also a good precursor or source ng “serotonin”, which is also good para sa ating mood.” she said

[“Sunlight is also a good precursor or source of “serotonin”, which is also good for our mood.”]

Gardening or bonding with your pets is a good alternative for long travels. It is also budget-friendly and practical for those who wants to spend their time at home during holiday break.

Via Rosalie Coz’s report