MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has officially declared Monday, May 12, 2025, a special non-working holiday throughout the Philippines to enable citizens to fully participate in the upcoming 2025 national and local elections.
The declaration was made through Proclamation No. 878, which was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on behalf of the President on May 6, 2025.
In the proclamation, President Marcos emphasized the vital role of elections in strengthening democratic governance in the country.
He noted that declaring May 12 a holiday would ensure that all registered voters are given sufficient time and opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote without the constraints of regular work obligations.
“There is a need to declare Monday, 12 May 2025, as a special (non-working) holiday to enable the people to exercise their right to vote properly,” the document stated.
By doing so, the administration aims to boost voter turnout and encourage civic participation during the midterm elections, where key government positions at the local and national levels will be contested.
The holiday declaration came following a request made by the Commission on Elections, with the aim to allow Filipinos to vote this Election 2025.
May 12, 2025, marks an important date for the Filipino electorate as they cast their votes for senators, members of the House of Representatives, governors, mayors, and other local officials. The elections are expected to significantly shape the country’s political landscape heading into the second half of President Marcos Jr.’s term.
Government agencies, businesses, and private employers are expected to adjust work schedules accordingly and ensure that employees are informed about the holiday declaration to facilitate maximum participation in the electoral process.
— The Summit Express
