Senate Office of the coccretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 26 JAN 28 A10:31 First Regular Session RECEIVED BY. SENATE S. No. 1717 Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda AN ACT DECLARING EVERY 30TH DAY OF NOVEMBER OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL WORKING HOLIDAY IN OBSERVANCE OF JESUS REIGNS DAY EXPLANATORY NOTE Filipinos, as a people deeply anchored in faith, are known for drawing strength and guidance from their spiritual beliefs in almost every aspect of life. According to the 2015 Global Attitudes survey of the Pew Research Center, eighty-seven percent (87%) consider religion very important in their lives'. Although the figure declined slightly to seventy-three percent (73%) in a 2020 survey? by Social Weather Stations (SWS), it still indicates that nearly three out of four Filipinos regard religion as highly important. Whether in small, everyday choices or in larger responsibilities, this reliance on faith consistently contributes to the betterment of society. It shines through in the integrity shown at work, the compassion extended in service to others, and the resilience displayed in times of trial. Faith inspires honesty, empathy, and solidarity, qualities that bind communities together and foster unity. It is woven into family traditions, community celebrations, and even the quiet moments of reflection that shape character. In this way, faith is not simply a private conviction but ' Why Filipinos are among world's most religious. ABS-CBN News. January 8, 2016. https://www.abs-cbn.com/focus/01/07/16/why-filipinos-are-among-worlds-most-religious 2 SWS: Number of Filipinos who think religion is 'very important' drops from 83% to 73%. INQUIRER.net. April 1, 2021. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1413554/losing-faith-filipinos-who-think-religion-is-very-important-down-s urvey-says
a living force that nurtures civic responsibility, strengthens relationships, and enriches the moral fabric of the nation. While the non-establishment clause under Article III, Section 5 of the 1987 Constitution' is recognized, the Supreme Court in Peralta v. Philippine Postal Corporation (G.R. No. 223395, December 4, 2018) held that such constitutional mandate "is not inhibition of profound reverence for religion and is not denial of its influence in human affairs. Religion as a profession of faith to an active power that binds and elevates man to his Creator is recognized. And, in so far as it instills into the minds the purest principles of morality, its influence is deeply felt and highly appreciated."4 It is for this reason that several laws have been enacted to honor and observe various religious celebrations. Among these are: Republic Act No. 10966, which declares December 8 a special non-working holiday to commemorate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary; Republic Act No. 11370, which designates September 8 as a special working holiday in celebration of the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary; Republic Act No. 9645, which commemorates the founding anniversary of Iglesia ni Cristo; Republic Act No. 9849, which declares the 10th day of Zhul Hijja a national holiday in observance of Eidul Adha; and Republic Act No. 9177, which establishes a holiday in observance of Eidul Fitr. Each law serves as a testament to the nation's deep respect for diverse traditions, while affirming the profound role of faith in shaping moral values, strengthening social bonds, and weaving together the cultural fabric of society. The observation of the Jesus Reigns Day of Celebration is not different from these laws, as it equally reflects the nation's respect for faith and devotion. It serves as a meaningful occasion for believers to gather in worship and thanksgiving, fostering unity, hope, and moral renewal within the Filipino community. The Jesus Reigns Day of Celebration dates back to November 30, 2012. It started in Cebu where 15,000 people gathered in a grand parade declaring Jesus as their King. 3 Section 5. No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever be allowed. No religious test shall be required for the exercise of civil or political rights. 4 Peralta v. Philippine Postal Corporation, G.R. No. 223395, December 4, 2018. s Our Story. Jesus Reigns. https://jesusreigns.ph/our-story
Beginning in 2015, the observance expanded to numerous provinces and major cities across the Philippines and later gained international participation in various locations abroad. Declaring November 30 as a special working holiday will provide those who wish to observe the occasion the opportunity to do so, without disrupting economic activity or imposing mandatory participation. This bill therefore seeks to recognize the observance of Jesus Reigns Day by allowing individuals and communities who choose to participate to freely express and practice their faith, whether individually or collectively with families, loved ones, religious communities, or congregations, consistent with existing laws and constitutional guarantees. In view of the foregoing, the passage of this measure is earnestly sought. LOREN LEGARDA
Office of the Stray TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE ) REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session ) A10:32 JAN 28 SENATE RECEIVED BY. S. No. 1717 Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda AN ACT DECLARING EVERY 30TH DAY OF NOVEMBER OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL WORKING HOLIDAY IN OBSERVANCE OF JESUS REIGNS DAY Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in the Congress assembled
Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Jesus Reigns Special
2 Working Holiday Act"
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to
recognize and respect the free exercise of religion and the voluntary observance of faith-based and cultural activities by individuals and communities, consistent with the 6 Constitution and existing laws. Such observances contribute to the promotion of 7 shared values, social cohesion, and moral development within society.
Sec. 3. Special Working Holiday. - The thirtieth (30th) day of November of
every year is hereby declared a special working holiday. The observance of the day shall be voluntary and may be undertaken individually or collectively by those who choose to do so, subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations.
Sec 4. No Mandatory Observance. - Nothing in this Act shall be construed as
requiring any person, institution, employer, or establishment, whether public or private, to participate in, support, or facilitate any religious activity or observance. Nothing herein shall be interpreted as establishing a state religion, favoring or
endorsing any particular religious belief, or impairing the freedom of any individual to refrain from religious observance, consistent with the Constitution and existing laws.
Sec. 5. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended, accordingly
Sec. 6. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper/s of general circulation. Approved,