“Maybe we just need to clarify when the holidays will be and we’re working on that,” Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky Carandang told reporters.

He said Malacañang had been reviewing holidays on a case-to-case basis since President Aquino assumed office.

“Holiday economics” was made into law by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo under Republic Act 9492, which moved regular and special holidays to the nearest Monday.

Aquino, however, said there were important holidays whose celebration should not be moved to other dates so people would not forget their significance. He cited as example June 12 or the country’s Independence Day.

Aquino also stressed the long weekends caused by holiday economics must be minimized for the sake of businesses and those earning on a daily basis.

The President noted that other sectors are also clamoring for more definite pronouncements on holidays to allow them to plan their activities ahead.

Aurea Calica, Philippine Star