Ninoy Aquino Day Holiday Extended to Boost Tourism
August 15, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has officially moved the observance of Ninoy Aquino Day from its traditional date of August 21 to August 23, 2024. The executive order, Proclamation No. 665, aims to stimulate domestic tourism by creating a longer weekend for Filipinos.
The decision to shift the national holiday to a Friday will provide an extended break for workers and students, encouraging domestic travel and boosting the local economy. By extending the weekend, the government hopes to alleviate the pressures of daily life and promote relaxation and leisure activities.
Ninoy Aquino Day commemorates the assassination of former Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., a prominent opposition leader and martyr of Philippine democracy. Despite the date change, the government assures the public that the historical significance of the day will be preserved through various commemorative activities and educational programs.
The Department of Tourism has expressed optimism about the positive impact of the extended weekend on the tourism industry. The department anticipates increased bookings in hotels, resorts, and transportation services, leading to job creation and economic growth in tourism-dependent areas.
To ensure a smooth transition and implementation of the new holiday schedule, the Department of Labor and Employment has been tasked with issuing the necessary guidelines for the private sector. The department will provide clear directives on compensation and work arrangements for employees during the extended weekend.
As the Philippines continues to recover from the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the government believes that initiatives like the extension of Ninoy Aquino Day can play a crucial role in revitalizing the tourism sector and driving overall economic growth.