July 15, 2026, Declared Special Non-Working Holiday in CAR for 39th Cordillera Day

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared Wednesday, July 15, 2026, a special non-working holiday in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in celebration of the region’s 39th Founding Anniversary, also known as Cordillera Day. The declaration was made through Proclamation No. 1334, signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto on July 1, 2026.

The holiday allows residents across the Cordillera Administrative Region to fully participate in commemorative activities, cultural events, and community celebrations honoring the region’s establishment. It also gives local government units, businesses, schools, and workers ample time to prepare for the observance while recognizing the historical and cultural significance of Cordillera Day.

Why July 15 Is a Holiday in CAR

Every year, local government units, national government agencies, schools, and community organizations celebrate Cordillera Day through different activities. These often include cultural performances, parades, exhibits, educational programs, sports events, and official ceremonies that honor the establishment of the region.

Cordillera Day celebrates the creation of the Cordillera Administrative Region. It also recognizes the rich culture, traditions, and identity of the Cordilleran people. Therefore, everyone must remember the region’s history and the resilience of its indigenous communities. The most important contributions of Cordillera to the country’s growth and development.

In addition, the celebration encourages unity among the provinces and cities that make up CAR. At the same time, it highlights the region’s unique customs, traditional arts, music, dances, and other cultural practices.

Proclamation No. 1334

The declaration of July 15, 2026, as a special non-working holiday in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) was made through Proclamation No. 1334, which was signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto by the authority of the President of the Philippines. Proclamation No. 1334 was officially issued on July 1, 2026, in Manila. The issuance provides ample time for local government units, government agencies, private establishments, schools, and residents throughout the Cordillera Administrative Region to prepare for the observance of Cordillera Day on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

What Does a Special Non-Working Holiday Mean?

Since July 15, 2026, has been declared a special (non-working) holiday in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). All employees are generally not required to report for work unless their employer requires them to do so. Businesses may suspend operations for the day or continue operating depending on the nature of their services and operational requirements.

For a detailed guide on holiday pay computation during a special non-working day, including pay rates for employees who work. Read our complete explainer: Special Non-Working Holiday Pay Rules in the Philippines. This guide provides easy-to-understand examples based on the latest DOLE labor advisories to help both employees and employers correctly compute holiday pay.

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