Holiday Economics

Last week, my officemate sent me an email regarding the article posted in the Inquirer website. According to the article, “Holiday economics, or the practice of shifting holiday observances, is now official government policy after President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Republic Act 9492 into law. The law, “an act rationalizing the celebration of holidays,” mandates that most holidays, except those with religious significance, will be shifted to the nearest Monday, said Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita who announced the new law Wednesday.”

With that law enacted, the following shall be non-working day for employees: Yahoo!

Ninoy Aquino Day (August 21)
Bataan Day (April 9)
Labor Day (1 May)
Independence Day (June 12)
National Heroes Day (August 31)
Bonifacio Day (November 30)
Rizal Day (December 30)

Exempted from holiday economics are the following for obvious reasons:

Christmas Day (December 25)
New Year’s Eve (December 31)
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday
Eid’l Fitre (October 13)
All Saints Day (November 1)

This law definitely would boost the tourism industry and would give time to employees to rest and to enjoy life. Working is really stressful. I can attest to that. Given that the salary here in the Philippines is below average compared to other countries, this law in someway is a benefit to a Filipino worker.

Where should I go this August?