MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos will enjoy a long weekend as December 8, 2025 (Monday) has been declared a special non-working holiday in observance of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary.
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| Facade of San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila. |
This annual holiday gives Filipinos the chance to reflect on their faith and participate in religious activities honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Background of the Holiday
The Malacañang Palace, through Proclamation No. 727 released in October 2024, confirmed that December 8 will remain a special non-working day nationwide.
The date has been officially recognized since 2017, when then-President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act (RA) No. 10966, declaring December 8 as a special non-working holiday to commemorate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary.
The law highlights the country's deep Catholic heritage and honors the Virgin Mary, the Patroness of the Philippines. The measure originated from House Bill 4661 filed by House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas in December 2016.
For Catholics, December 8 is a holy day of obligation, meaning the faithful are expected to attend Mass.
Why December 8 is Significant
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin—a central doctrine in Catholic teachings.
Marian devotion is deeply rooted in Filipino culture, with many churches, schools, and communities named in her honor. December 8 is a meaningful day for offering gratitude, seeking guidance, and strengthening values of faith, humility, and service.
DOLE Pay Rules for December 8, 2025 Holiday
- No work, no pay applies unless a company policy or CBA provides otherwise.
- If the employee works on the special day: An additional 30% of the basic wage for the first eight hours (Basic wage × 130%).
- If work exceeds eight hours: An additional 30% of the hourly rate on that day (Hourly rate × 130% × 130% × number of hours worked).
- If the special day falls on a rest day: An additional 50% of the basic wage for the first eight hours (Basic wage × 150%).
- If work exceeds eight hours on a rest day: An additional 30% of the hourly rate (Hourly rate × 150% × 130% × number of hours worked).
