𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫?

The Philippines is well-known for its vibrant culture and numerous festivities, but its holiday-filled calendar may come at a high cost. The country has long been celebrated for its rich history and traditions, reflected in its abundance of holidays. With an average of 27 holidays a year, the Philippines far surpasses its Southeast Asian neighbors like Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam in holiday count. Experts assert that this excessive holiday schedule hinders economic growth and discourages foreign investment. However, another question remains: “Is reducing unnecessary holidays the best approach to fostering economic growth and productivity?”

While it is possible for a country to have an excessive number of holidays, the current situation in the Philippines does not appear to warrant a drastic reduction. A more reasonable approach would be to reassess the relevance of existing holidays and explore ways to optimize their economic impact.

𝐹𝑒𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑡ℎ

“We have to benchmark our holidays with the norm… You can’t go… far away from it because that will introduce disincentives for our investors.” The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary, Arsenio M. Balisacan, has emphasized in response to the need to benchmark the Philippines’ holiday calendar with other Southeast Asian countries to remain competitive. He suggests that having too many holidays can deter investors who prioritize productivity. Also, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) echoes this sentiment, claiming that the country’s numerous holidays are detrimental to businesses and the economy. They argue that reducing holidays can lead to increased productivity and attract more foreign investors.

It becomes apparent that there is merit in harmonizing the Philippines’ holiday schedule with that of other Southeast Asian nations. The idea that an excessive number of holidays could impede productivity and discourage potential investors is worth considering. It brings to light the crucial issue of balancing the cultural significance of holidays with the necessity of maintaining a competitive position in the global market. Perhaps a thorough assessment of the holiday calendar could pave the way for a more efficient and economically robust Philippines.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐿𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑟 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒: 𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑎𝑠 𝑎 𝑅𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡

However, labor groups and advocates for workers’ rights vehemently oppose any reduction in holidays. They argue that holidays are a fundamental right of workers and should be preserved. Jose Sonny G. Matula, President of the Federation of Free Workers, emphasizes that existing laws already allow employers to require employees to work on holidays with appropriate compensation. He believes that reducing holidays is unnecessary when such mechanisms are in place. Labor groups argue that the government should focus on addressing more pressing issues that significantly impact the productivity and well-being of the workforce, such as low wages, heavy traffic, contractualization, and job insecurity. Therefore, prioritizing the resolution of these critical issues holds paramount importance in ensuring the welfare of the workforce and the overall economic stability.

𝑅𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛

Regardless of any changes to the number of holidays, it is still not the best solution in expanding economic growth and promoting productivity. Number of holidays was not yet at the peak of getting a hangover. It was just enough also for those workers who are working without additional pay during holidays. Instead of reducing the number of holidays, the government should redirect and improve the process of declaring holidays. Providing the full-year calendar of official holidays well in advance would allow for effective planning. Additionally, avoiding the frequent practice of declaring holidays on short notice is important. With the due process of this, it may help in expanding economic growth at the same time giving importance to the work-life of the Filipinos.

By Celine A. Celestial