Special non-working day declared in Davao City on Monday (March 17)

Pupils dressed in colorful Philippine eagle and “waling-waling” orchid-inspired costumes join the parade to celebrate “Araw ng Dabaw” in 2012. (File photo from KARLOS MANLUPIG)
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has declared Monday, March 17, a special non-working day in Davao City.
This action is meant to enable Davaoeños participate in the “Araw ng Pasasalamat (Thanksgiving Day)” in line with the “88th Araw ng Dabaw (Day of Davao).”
Proclamation No. 825 was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on March 11 for this purpose.
The declaration was confirmed to the media on Thursday.
“It is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Davao be given full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration,” the document stated.
The local government of Davao officially opened the 88th Araw ng Dabaw celebration on March 1.
The month-long festivities will feature various events that will highlight the city’s history and culture.
Some of the activities include a thanksgiving mass at the San Pedro Cathedral, Araw ng Dabaw Fair, Kundiman at Harana sa Araw ng Dabaw, and more.