EDSA Revolution Anniversary: February 25, 2026, is a Regular Working Day in the Philippines

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded employers that February 25, 2026, marking the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, will be observed as a regular working day in the private sector. This means employees who report for work are entitled to their regular pay.

Pay Rules for February 25, 2026

According to DOLE’s advisory, employees working on February 25th will receive 100% of their basic daily wage for the first eight hours of work. Philippine News Agency and Inquirer.net both reported on the policy.

For work exceeding eight hours, employees will be compensated with an additional 25% of their hourly rate. (Manila Bulletin)

“No Work, No Pay” Principle Applies

The “no work, no pay” principle will be enforced unless a company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) stipulates otherwise. This means employees who do not report to work on February 25th will not receive pay, unless their employer has a policy guaranteeing payment for special working days. (Manila Bulletin)

Recent History of February 25 Observance

In previous years, February 25 was often declared a special non-working day to commemorate the EDSA People Power Revolution. However, in 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Moved the special non-working day to February 24th. (GMA Network) Since then, February 25 has not been designated as a regular holiday or special non-working day.

Currently, lawmakers are considering a bill to declare February 25th a regular holiday annually, but Malacañang has stated that the President will review any such proposals. (GMA Network)

Key Takeaways

• February 25, 2026, is a regular working day.
• Employees who work will receive 100% of their daily wage for the first eight hours and an additional 25% for overtime.
• The “no work, no pay” principle applies unless otherwise specified by company policy or CBA.