NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
March 20 Declared Nationwide Holiday For Eid'l Fitr
Photo credit: PCO
Malacañang has announced that Friday, March 20, 2026 will be a regular holiday nationwide in celebration of Eid’l Fitr, the Muslim festival that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made the announcement during the Grand Iftar at Malacañang Palace, where he joined Muslim leaders and members of the community in a gathering that highlights the government’s recognition of the holiday’s cultural and religious significance.
Why it matters: Eid’l Fitr (also spelled Eid al‑Fitr) is one of Islam’s most important celebrations. It marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. The holiday is traditionally celebrated with morning prayers, family feasts, acts of charity, and community gatherings.
Muslim Filipinos, who make up roughly 6% of the country’s population, are mostly concentrated in Mindanao and in regions such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Recognizing Eid’l Fitr as a national holiday allows them to fully observe the festival with their families while promoting inclusivity in the country’s multi‑faith society.
Under Republic Act No. 9177, Eid’l Fitr is a regular national holiday. Its exact date changes each year according to the Islamic lunar calendar, with official proclamations based on moon sightings and consultations with religious authorities.
With the Palace’s declaration, schools, government offices, and many private businesses will be closed on March 20, giving communities across the Philippines an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about Muslim Filipino traditions.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made the announcement during the Grand Iftar at Malacañang Palace, where he joined Muslim leaders and members of the community in a gathering that highlights the government’s recognition of the holiday’s cultural and religious significance.
Why it matters: Eid’l Fitr (also spelled Eid al‑Fitr) is one of Islam’s most important celebrations. It marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. The holiday is traditionally celebrated with morning prayers, family feasts, acts of charity, and community gatherings.
Muslim Filipinos, who make up roughly 6% of the country’s population, are mostly concentrated in Mindanao and in regions such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Recognizing Eid’l Fitr as a national holiday allows them to fully observe the festival with their families while promoting inclusivity in the country’s multi‑faith society.
Under Republic Act No. 9177, Eid’l Fitr is a regular national holiday. Its exact date changes each year according to the Islamic lunar calendar, with official proclamations based on moon sightings and consultations with religious authorities.
With the Palace’s declaration, schools, government offices, and many private businesses will be closed on March 20, giving communities across the Philippines an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about Muslim Filipino traditions.
Mar 12, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
