Manila: Malaca±ang has declared a special non-working day in 17 municipalities in Camarines Sur and Masbate on Friday to celebrate the Pe±afrancia Festival. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, by authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., signed Proclamation 1444 on September 16, designating Friday, September 18, as a special non-working day in various municipalities of Camarines Sur and Masbate.

According to Philippines News Agency, the proclamation affects Bombon, Bula, Calabanga, Camaligan, Canaman, Gainza, Libmanan, Magarao, Milaor, Minalabac, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pasacao, Pili, San Fernando, and Siruma in Camarines Sur, along with San Pascual in Masbate. The declaration aims to provide residents, government personnel, families, and visitors ample opportunity to engage in the cultural and civic activities linked to the Pe±afrancia Festival.

The proclamation references Proclamation 654, series of 2013, which amended Proclamation 776, series of 1991, establishing every Friday before the Feast of Our Lady of Pe±afrancia as a special day in Naga City. The measure is also intended to manage traffic efficiently, anticipating an influx of devotees and visitors during the annual festival.

The Pe±afrancia Festival is a significant religious and cultural event in the Bicol region, attracting attendees from across the nation to honor Our Lady of Pe±afrancia. The holiday on September 18 precedes major festival activities in Naga City, including the traditional fluvial procession, enabling participation from residents and visitors in the designated municipalities. Authorities are preparing for increased movement and vehicle traffic in the area.