Ramadan not a holiday, clarifies PalaceMuslim brothers gather for congregational prayer at the Manila Golden Mosque in Quiapo, Manila on March 1, 2025, ahead of the official start of Ramadan. MANILA, Philippines — The Palace on Wednesday, February 18, clarified that the start of Ramadan is not considered a holiday. The Bangsamoro Grand Mufti had announced the beginning of Ramadan on Thursday, February 19, after the crescent moon was sighted. Despite this, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro told reporters that it will not be declared a holiday. This has long been the standard for Malacañang,However, several social media pages have falsely announced that February 19 will be a holiday, prompting class suspensions.

Source: Philippine Star February 18, 2026 14:14 UTC