MANILA, Philippines – The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) has announced that September 5, 2025 (Friday) will be observed as a Muslim Legal Holiday in commemoration of Mauluddin Nabi or the birthday of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.).
According to the memorandum issued by the Office of the Regional Director of NCMF Region IX-A (Zamboanga Peninsula), the holiday falls on the 12th day of the Islamic lunar month of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447H.
SEE ALSO: LIST: Palace declares special holidays in 15 areas in September 2025
Provinces and cities where holiday is observed
Under Presidential Decree No. 1083 or the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines, Muslim Legal Holidays are officially observed in the following provinces and cities:
- Basilan
- Lanao del Norte
- Lanao del Sur
- Maguindanao
- North Cotabato
- Sultan Kudarat
- Sulu
- Tawi-Tawi
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Zamboanga Sibugay
- Cities of Cotabato, Iligan, Marawi, Pagadian, and Zamboanga
The proclamation also states that the holiday may be observed in other Muslim provinces and cities that may later be created, and can also be recognized in other provinces and cities upon proclamation by the President of the Philippines.
Holiday rules for Muslim employees
Under Article 172 of the law, all Muslim government officials and employees in the areas mentioned will be excused from reporting to work in observance of the holiday.
Additionally, the President of the Philippines may issue a proclamation allowing private offices, agencies, and establishments to excuse their Muslim employees from work during the Muslim Holiday without any reduction in their compensation.
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| Photo courtesy: PIA Western Mindanao and City Government of Zamboanga (Facebook) |
About Maulid un-Nabi
Maulid un-Nabi, also known as the Prophet’s Birthday, commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) in Mecca in 570 CE. The tradition of observing Maulid dates back to the 12th century and is marked by prayers, Qur’an recitations, and gatherings that highlight the Prophet’s teachings. In the Philippines, it is a significant Muslim holiday, especially in Mindanao, reflecting centuries of Islamic heritage and culture.
Summary
With the declaration, September 5, 2025 is a special Muslim holiday in many parts of Mindanao and other Muslim-majority areas to honor the birth of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). Non-Muslim provinces may also recognize the holiday if proclaimed by the President.
— The Summit Express