MANILA, Philippines — As the Philippines marks the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on February 25, 2026, four municipalities have taken the lead in declaring a local special non-working holiday, suspending classes and government work to allow residents to participate in commemorative activities.
Key Details:
- Local Declarations: While the national government had previously deliberated on the holiday status of February 25, the local government units (LGUs) of four specific towns (primarily in the Rizal and Bulacan regions) issued executive orders to formalize the suspension of activities.
- Scope of Suspension: * All classes in public and private schools at all levels are suspended.
- Work in government offices is suspended, except for those involved in frontline services such as disaster response, health, and security.
- Context of EDSA 40: This year’s celebration is particularly significant as it marks four decades since the 1986 uprising. The theme for the 2026 commemorations is focused on “modern people power” and civic engagement.
- National Policy: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently stated that the government would “study” making February 25 a permanent non-working holiday each year, though for 2026, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) had already issued pay rules for those working on this date.
Public Safety and Rallies:
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed that while opposing views and rallies are expected during the 40th anniversary, their primary priority is maintaining public safety and ensuring that celebrations remain peaceful.