The Philippines is one of Asia’s most well known countries and with a population of 102 million people it is the 7th most populous country in Asia and the 12th most populous country in the world. The country is comprised of 7,107 islands. Its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire and close to the equator makes the Philippines prone to earthquakes and typhoons, but also endows it with abundant natural resources and some of the world's greatest biodiversity and makes it one of Asia’s most popular tourism locations.

Philippines - 2017 Holidays & Observances

New Year’s Day

Aside from lighting firecrackers and having firework displays, Filipinos have other beliefs and practices which are associated and believed to bring good luck, fortune, and prosperity in the New Year such as blowing horns, putting money in pocket or opening all windows,...

Maundy Thursday and Good Friday

Maundy Thursday marks the event before Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross (Good Friday). Aside from fasting, most Filipinos refrain from activities such as drinking alcohol, eating meat and intercourse with their partners. They are regular non-working holidays in Philippines

Day of Valor

The Araw ng Kagitingan or the Day of Valor is celebrated for the brave souls who fought during the Fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942 during the World War II. The holiday also pays respect to the many civilian men who died on the tragic Death March which started from Bataan and ended in Tarlac

Independence Day

One of the most significant dates in the Philippine’s history is Independence Day because it marks the nation’s independence from the Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. Filipinos celebrate it annually on June 12.

Eid’l Fitr

After Ramadan month of strict fasting and pious activities, Muslims all over the world mark the end of Ramadan in a celebration called Eid'l Fitr. Eid'l Fitr is one of the most important occasions in Islam, as it comes after fulfilling the teachings of Allah.

National Heroes Day

National Heroes Day is a national holiday of Philippines, celebrated to pay homage to the National Heroes of the country. Every year this day falls on the fourth Moday of August

Eidul Adha

The festival commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to follow Allah’s command and sacrifice his son, Ishmael. But at the last minute Allah intervened and gave Abraham a ram to sacrifice instead

Bonifacio Day

A.Bonifacio was a founder and leader of the Katipunan movement which sought the independence of the Philippines from Spanish colonial rule and started the Philippine Revolution. He is considered as a national hero of the Philippines. Therefore, his birthday on November 30 is celebrated as Bonifacio Day

Christmas

Where would you find the most Christmas spirit in the world? It’s Philippines. Approximately 90% of Filipinos are Christian so Christmas is an important holiday in a year

Rizal Day

Rizal Day is a national holiday commemorating the life and works of Jose Rizal, one of the Philippines’ national heroes. It is celebrated every December 30, the day of Rizal's execution at Bagumbayan, now known as Rizal Park, in 1896.