The Philippines observes a rich tapestry of public holidays in 2025, reflecting its diverse cultural, religious, and historical heritage. These Public Holidays in Philippines in 2025 offer citizens opportunities for rest, reflection, and celebration throughout the year. From nationally recognized dates honoring pivotal moments in Philippine history to religious observances that showcase the country’s spiritual diversity, each holiday holds unique significance.
This calendar of public holidays not only offers much-needed respites for students and employees but also reminds us of the shared experiences, traditions, and values that unite the Filipino people. Understanding these holidays offers insight into the heart of Philippine society and its vibrant culture.
Public Holidays in Philippines In 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Philippines In 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Eid al-Fitr | Mar 31, 2025 | Monday |
| Araw ng Kagitingan | Apr 09, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Maundy Thursday | Apr 17, 2025 | Thursday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Labor Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Eid al-Adha | Jun 07, 2025 | Saturday |
| Independence Day | Jun 12, 2025 | Thursday |
| National Heroes Day | Aug 25, 2025 | Monday |
| Bonifacio Day | Nov 30, 2025 | Sunday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Rizal Day | Dec 30, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Know More: Public Holidays in Peru In 2025 |
New Year’s Day
In the Philippines, New Year’s Day signifies the commencement of a new calendar year. It’s a time for Filipinos to gather with family and friends, reflect on the past year and set goals for the future. Traditions include:
- Preparing a midnight feast called Media Noche.
- Making noise to ward off evil spirits.
- Following superstitions like wearing polka dots for prosperity.
Many families attend church services to pray for blessings in the coming year. The holiday is filled with hope, celebration, and the spirit of new beginnings. Fireworks displays are standard, and cities often host public events to welcome the new year.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday celebrating the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. In the Philippines, it’s particularly significant for the Muslim population, primarily in Mindanao and other southern regions. The date varies yearly based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Celebrations include special prayers, family gatherings, and feasts. Muslims wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and seek forgiveness from others.
It’s a time of joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. The Philippine government recognizes this holiday to promote cultural understanding and respect for the country’s Muslim community. Non-Muslims often join in the festivities, fostering interfaith harmony.
Araw ng Kagitingan
Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor, commemorates the fall of Bataan during World War II and honors the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers who defended the Philippines against Japanese forces. It marks the beginning of the Bataan Death March, where thousands of prisoners of war were forced to march to prison camps.
The holiday reminds the Filipino people of their resilience and the sacrifices they made in pursuit of independence. Ceremonies are held at war memorials, and veterans are honored nationwide. It’s a day for reflecting on the country’s history and the importance of preserving peace and independence.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday, part of Holy Week in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. It’s a day of solemn reflection and religious observance.
Many Filipinos attend church services, participate in the washing of the feet ceremony, and visit several churches in a tradition called Visita Iglesia. Some practice fasting or abstinence from meat. Families often gather for quiet reflection or to watch religious programs. In many areas, businesses close or operate on reduced hours. The day emphasizes themes of service, humility, and spiritual preparation for Easter.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a solemn Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the Philippines, it’s marked by serious reflection and religious observances. Many Catholics participate in the Stations of the Cross, attend church services, or join in dramatic reenactments of Christ’s passion called “Senakulo.” Some devotees practice self-flagellation or even crucifixion as extreme forms of penance. Most businesses are closed, and a somber atmosphere prevails.
Fasting and abstinence from meat are standard practices. The day emphasizes themes of sacrifice, redemption, and spiritual introspection, playing a crucial role in the country’s religious and cultural traditions.
Labor Day
Labor Day in the Philippines celebrates the contributions and achievements of Filipino workers. It’s a day to recognize labor rights and push for better working conditions. Many labor groups organize rallies and demonstrations to voice concerns and demands. The government often chooses this day to announce new labor policies or benefits.
Some companies hold employee appreciation events. For many Filipinos, it’s a welcome day off work, often spent with family or at the beach, as it coincides with the start of summer. The holiday serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equitable labor practices and workers’ rights.
Eid al-Adha
The Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is a significant occasion that commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s act of obedience to Allah by sacrificing his son. In the Philippines, it’s essential for the Muslim population. The date varies yearly based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
Celebrations include special prayers, family gatherings, and the sacrifice of an animal (usually a goat or sheep) to be shared with family, friends, and the poor. It’s a time of devotion, charity, and community bonding. The Philippine government recognizes this holiday to promote cultural understanding and respect for the country’s Muslim community.
Independence Day
Philippine Independence Day commemorates the nation’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898. It’s a day of patriotic celebration, marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural events nationwide.
The main celebration occurs in Manila, often featuring a military parade and a speech by the President. Many Filipinos display the national flag and wear clothing with patriotic symbols. Schools and communities organize activities to promote national pride and historical awareness. The holiday serves as a reminder of the country’s struggle for freedom and the importance of preserving and building upon that hard-won independence.
National Heroes Day
National Heroes Day honors all Philippine national heroes, recognized and unsung, who contributed to the nation’s freedom and development. Unlike holidays dedicated to specific individuals, this day pays tribute to all Filipinos who have served the country.
It’s a time for reflection on patriotism and national identity. Many Filipinos visit monuments and museums dedicated to national heroes. Schools and communities often organize activities to teach about lesser-known historical figures. The government holds official ceremonies to commemorate heroes’ sacrifices. This holiday encourages Filipinos to consider how they can contribute to their nation’s progress and embody the virtues of their heroes.
Bonifacio Day
Bonifacio Day honors the birth of Andres Bonifacio, a significant figure in the Philippine Revolution that opposed Spanish colonial authority. Known as the “Father of the Philippine Revolution,” Bonifacio founded the Katipunan, a secret society that sparked the revolution. The day honors his leadership, patriotism, and sacrifice for Philippine independence.
Celebrations include wreath-laying ceremonies at Bonifacio monuments, parades, and educational programs about his life and ideals. It’s a time for Filipinos to reflect on the values of courage, love for the country, and the ongoing work of nation-building. The holiday reinforces the importance of ordinary citizens in shaping national destiny.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in the predominantly Christian Philippines. It is the culmination of a protracted holiday season that unofficially commences in September and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Filipinos attend Christmas Mass, gather for family reunions, and enjoy festive meals.
Gift-giving, caroling, and displaying Christmas decorations are common traditions. The day is filled with joy, generosity, and spiritual reflection. Many Filipinos also use this time to give back to their communities through charity work. The holiday emphasizes themes of love, family, and hope.
Rizal Day
Rizal Day commemorates the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, on the anniversary of his execution in 1896. Rizal was a polymath whose writings inspired the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. The day is marked by ceremonies at the Rizal Monument in Manila, with the President leading a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony.
Many Filipinos visit Rizal shrines and participate in parades or cultural events. Schools often hold programs to educate students about Rizal’s life and ideals. The holiday encourages reflection on patriotism, intellectual freedom, and the power of peaceful reform.