May 12 declared a special non-working holiday for 2025 polls

MALACANANG has declared Monday, May 12, 2025, a special non-working holiday nationwide to allow Filipinos to vote in the upcoming national and local elections.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Proclamation No. 878 on Tuesday, under the authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

The order aims to “enable the people to properly exercise their right to vote,” ensuring full voter participation in the midterm polls.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) had earlier appealed to the President to declare the day a holiday to make voting more accessible for all registered voters across the country.

On May 12, Filipinos will elect 12 senators, members of the House of Representatives, party-list groups, and local officials, including governors, vice governors, mayors, vice mayors, and city or municipal councilors.

The proclamation underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the democratic process and encouraging civic participation.