The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has raised concerns that the high number of holidays in the Philippines is detrimental to the economy, as it hampers productivity and diminishes the country’s appeal as an investment destination.

PCCI President Enunina V. Mangio emphasized the need for Congress to reassess the holiday calendar, highlighting that the Philippines has significantly more holidays than its Southeast Asian counterparts.

Currently, there are around 22 regular holidays, alongside approximately five special holidays declared by the Palace each year, not to mention additional calamity-related holidays and numerous local observances.

“We have too many holidays compared to the others in the region. We have to reduce its negative impacts on the productivity of our workforce and state of our economy,” Mangio said in a statement.

Mangio added that an excessive number of holidays can be detrimental to businesses, leading to increased labor costs, which can be especially burdensome for small businesses.

“Let us focus and work on our productivity and competitiveness and make sure we attract more investors into the country,” she said.

The PCCI is willing to take part in any discussions in case there is a suggestion or research to be presented on additional holidays, the PCCI leader added.

Earlier, the Senate faced criticism after announcing its plan to reduce the number of public holidays in the country.

Senate President Francis Escudero, however, clarified that the Senate’s objective was to restrict the approval of additional holiday bills rather than eliminate existing ones.