Malacañang clarified that the Muslim holiday on Monday, Jan. 27, applies only to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and other identified Muslim areas.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said this ahead of the holiday, which was declared for the observation of Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

In a message to Palace reporters, Bersamin said the holiday only applies to BARMM and other identified Muslim areas. Meanwhile, Muslims outside the said areas are excused from going to work.

"Not a national holiday, but a Muslim holiday only in BARMM and other Muslim areas defined in the Muslim Code," he said on Sunday, Jan. 26.

"Muslims in other areas where it is not observed as a holiday such as NCR (National Capital Region) are excused from reporting for work," he added.

The 1446 Hijrah (2025) Isra Wal Miraj, or Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W., will fall on Jan. 27 this year.

It is among the recognized Muslim holidays in the country by virtue of Article 169 of Presidential Decree No. 1083, also known as the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines dated Feb. 4, 1977.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has also issued CSC Resolution No. 81-1277 dated Nov. 13, 1981, recognizing the said Muslim holiday.

The Isra Wal Miraj is a significant event in Islam where Prophet Muhammad was taken from Mecca to Jerusalem (Isra) and ascended to heaven (Miraj). Muslims believe this journey happened in one night when Muhammad met previous prophets and received instructions from God.

It is celebrated annually when Muslims often engage in special prayers and recitations from the Quran, focusing on the night's spiritual significance.