Filipinos will have a long weekend to remember their departed loved ones this year. All Saints' Day falls on a Sunday, and All Souls' Day has been declared a special non-working day, so Undas 2026 runs for three straight days, from Saturday, October 31, to Monday, November 2.
What the proclamation says
Proclamation No. 1006, issued by Malacañang in September 2025, lists the country's holidays for 2026. It names November 1, All Saints' Day, as a special non-working day, and adds November 2, All Souls' Day, as an additional special non-working day. The Palace said the extra day is meant to strengthen family ties by giving Filipinos more time for traditional Undas activities, and to promote domestic tourism.
How pay works
Both days follow the rules for special non-working days set by the Department of Labor and Employment. The "no work, no pay" principle applies unless a company policy or agreement provides otherwise. Employees who report for work receive 130% of their basic daily wage for the first eight hours. If the day also falls on the employee's rest day, the rate rises to 150%. Overtime work is paid an additional 30% of the applicable hourly rate.
A tradition of homecoming
Undas is one of the most important dates on the Filipino calendar. In the days leading up to November 1, families clean and repaint the tombs of their loved ones. On the holiday itself, they gather at cemeteries and memorial parks to offer flowers, light candles and pray. Many stay for hours, sharing food and stories, and some keep vigil overnight. For millions, the holiday also means a trip back to their home province, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Tips for the long weekend
Travel early. Bus terminals, ports and airports fill up quickly in the days before November 1, so book tickets ahead and leave Metro Manila early if you can.
Visit graves in advance. Cemeteries are most crowded on November 1 and 2, and many set cut-off dates for cleaning and repainting tombs before the holiday, so check with cemetery management.
Follow local rules. Local governments and police usually roll out security and traffic plans around major cemeteries, and many restrict items such as sharp objects, alcohol and loudspeakers. Check your city or municipality's advisory before you go.
Secure your home. Lock doors and windows, and ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your house if the whole family will be away.
After Undas, the next regular holiday is Bonifacio Day on Monday, November 30, another long weekend for those already planning ahead.
