Wondering if Election Day is a paid holiday in the Philippines? For 2025, it depends on the type of election and the official proclamations released by Malacañang Palace. This guide breaks down what you need to know about May 12, 2025, in terms of holiday classification, employee rights, and pay rules.
Philippine Holiday Classifications Explained
Understanding the types of holidays under Philippine labor law is crucial to determining your rights as an employee.
- Regular Holidays: Full pay is required whether or not the employee reports to work.
- Special (Non-Working) Holidays: “No work, no pay” applies, unless there is a favorable company policy or Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
- Special (Working) Holidays: Employees are expected to work, with no additional compensation unless they render work.
Related: Philippine Holidays 2025
Is May 12, 2025, a Holiday in the Philippines?
Yes. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared Monday, May 12, 2025, a special non-working holiday via Proclamation No. 878 to observe the national and local elections.
Take note: while national elections as well as senatorial elections usually warrant a nationwide holiday, localized elections (like Barangay or SK) are often only declared holidays in the affected areas.
Pay Rules on Election Day 2025
Here’s how your pay will be computed based on whether you work on this special non-working holiday:
If You Do Not Work
- No pay, unless:
- Your company grants it via policy or CBA.
- You are excused from work without using your leave credits.
- Your company grants it via policy or CBA.
If You Don’t Work
| Scenario | Entitlement |
| Worked on May 12 | +30% of daily wage |
| Worked overtime | Additional +30% of the hourly rate |
| Worked on rest day (first 8 hrs) | +50% of daily rate |
All rates are based on DOLE guidelines.
Related: How to Compute OT Pay
Voting Time: Your Legal Entitlement
Even if Election Day is not a holiday, Republic Act No. 7166 mandates that employers must provide voting time.
- Voting hours: Typically 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Entitlement: At least 2 to 3 hours off to vote if you’re scheduled to work during voting hours.
Impact on Work Schedules, Job Interviews, and Remote Work
Remote Workers
- You are still entitled to the holiday pay rules.
- Remote work status does not exempt you from Philippine labor regulations.
Job Seekers
- Interviews and employer responses may be delayed around the election.
- Be proactive in rescheduling or confirming any activities for May 12.
Related: How to Follow Up Your Interview without Being Pushy
Recruiters and Hiring Managers
- Expect disruptions to onboarding and interviews.
- Avoid setting final interviews or contract signings around Election Day unless pre-arranged.
For Employers and HR Teams: Holiday Compliance Checklist
Ensure your company stays compliant and fair during Election Day:
- Wage Computation: Reflect accurate holiday premiums in payroll.
- Timekeeping: Account for shortened shifts or excused hours.
- Compliance Risk: Non-payment can lead to DOLE complaints or inspections.
- Remote Teams: Labor laws apply even for WFH or hybrid employees.
Best Practices for Job Seekers on Election Day
- Plan Ahead: Allocate voting time and avoid scheduling interviews between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Know Your Rights: You’re legally allowed time to vote.
- Document Violations: Report pay issues or denial of leave to vote to DOLE or your HR department.
Stay Compliant This Election Day: Partner with a Philippine-Based HR Expert
Navigating Philippine labor laws, especially during election-related holidays, can be complex. Work with a local HR expert to:
- Ensure accurate payroll and holiday computations
- Avoid compliance penalties from DOLE
- Support your Filipino remote workforce with lawful benefits
May 12 is fast approaching. Avoid risks. Stay compliant. Partner with a Philippine-based HR and offshoring expert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I refuse to work on Election Day?
A: If it’s a special non-working holiday, you’re not obligated to work unless required. If you do, you must receive premium holiday pay.
Q: Do I get paid if I don’t work on May 12?
A: Only if your employer offers it through a favorable policy or CBA.
Q: Does this apply to freelancers or contractors?
A: Freelancers aren’t covered under employee labor laws. But best practices suggest flexibility for national events like elections.
