Aug. 23 declared regular working day

It's official. President Noynoy Aquino declares August 23 as a regular working day. While the death anniversary of Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. on August 21, a Saturday, will be a non-working holiday.

The purpose for observing Ninoy Aquino Day on Aug. 21 instead of Aug. 23 is to avoid the imposition of unnecessary financial burden upon the employers, and ensure the continuity of government, business, and commercial transactions, promote productivity while at the same time preserve the solemnity of the observance (of the holiday)," as released by the Malacañang.

While former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo advocated “holiday economics," President Noynoy believes in economizing on holidays. That's why people should expect less holidays than usual under his term.
Previously, former President Gloria Arroyo issued Presidential Proclamation No. 1841 declaring August 23, 2010 as a non-working holiday. But President Noynoy's Proclamation No. 13 effectively modified it.

Well, I'm sure, many will be affected by the sudden directive from the Malacañang to make Aug. 23 a regular working day especially those who already have plans to travel back home to the provinces or for recreations in anticipation of the long weekend.

As for August 30, which is National Heroes’ Day, Malacañang has ordered that it will remain a non-working holiday in observance of National Heroes Day.