June 17 is a holiday in Lapu-Lapu City: Here’s why
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Residents of Lapu-Lapu City will enjoy a special non-working holiday on June 17 as the city celebrates its Charter Day.
The annual celebration marks the day in 1961 when President Carlos P. Garcia signed Republic Act No. 3134, officially establishing Lapu-Lapu City.
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The historical measure converted the former municipality of Opon into a city and renamed it in honor of Datu Lapulapu, the Mactan chieftain famed for defeating Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan in 1521.
Every year, Malacañang issues a proclamation declaring June 17 a special non-working day in Lapu-Lapu City to allow residents to celebrate the occasion through civic, cultural, and commemorative activities.
The city traditionally marks Charter Day with programs and festivities that celebrate its history, heritage, and continuing development.
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Why June 17 matters
June 17 stands as one of the most significant dates in Lapu-Lapu City’s history because it marks the enactment of its city charter.
Republic Act No. 3134 elevated Opon from a municipality into a component city and permanently linked its identity to Datu Lapulapu, whose victory against Magellan has long occupied a central place in Philippine history.
Lawmakers have also sought to institutionalize the annual observance. House Bill No. 762, introduced by Lapu-Lapu City Representative Junard “Ahong” Chan, proposes making every June 17 a permanent special non-working holiday through legislation instead of requiring a presidential proclamation each year.
What workers should know
Under Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) rules, a special non-working holiday generally follows the “no work, no pay” principle unless a company policy, established practice, or collective bargaining agreement provides otherwise.
Employees who do not report for work on the holiday ordinarily receive no pay unless covered by those exceptions.
Employees who work on June 17, however, qualify for premium pay.
For work performed during the first eight hours of a special non-working day, employees should receive 130 percent of their daily wage.
Those who render overtime work receive an additional 30 percent of their hourly rate on that day.
Employees required to work on what also falls on their scheduled rest day should receive 150 percent of their daily wage for the first eight hours, while overtime work on that rest day earns an additional 30 percent of the hourly rate.
Workers seeking clarification on holiday pay rules or wishing to file labor-related complaints may contact the Department of Labor and Employment through its 24/7 hotline at 1349 or through the agency’s official channels.
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