MANILA, Philippines — Wednesday, February 18, 2026, is not a public holiday, Malacañang clarified Tuesday.
Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro noted that while February 18 marks the first day of Ramadan this year, Malacañang has never declared the start of Ramadan as a national holiday. The day also falls on Ash Wednesday, which begins the Lenten season for Catholics and other Christians.
During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide observe daily fasting from dawn to sunset, alongside increased worship, reflection, and charitable acts.
Eid al-Fitr, which follows the month of Ramadan, will be declared a regular holiday nationwide under a forthcoming proclamation by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in line with Republic Act No. 9177.
Separately, February 17, Tuesday, is a special non-working holiday this year in celebration of the Chinese New Year.
