ILOILO City — Government offices and schools across Iloilo City have suspended work and classes today, August 25, after Malacañang declared a special non-working day to give Ilonggos the opportunity to fully participate in the city’s 89th Charter Day celebration.
Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto signed Proclamation No. 1388, Series of 2026, on August 11, declaring August 25 a special non-working day throughout Iloilo City in recognition of the anniversary.
“It is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Iloilo be given full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration,” the proclamation stated.
The declaration means no work in government agencies and offices, including the Iloilo City Government, while classes in schools at all levels will also be suspended.
This year’s Charter Day celebration carries the theme, “Celebrating 89 Years of Progress Toward a Better Iloilo City for All.”
The city government has prepared a monthlong lineup of sports, cultural, economic and public service activities aimed at bringing government programs closer to communities and highlighting Iloilo City’s development.
Among the major highlights is the recognition of the Top 10 Outstanding Ilonggos for their commitment to public service, community impact and exemplary contributions to the city’s development.
The awardees will be honored during the Mayor’s Night tonight, coinciding with the city’s official 89th Charter Day anniversary.
Several social service activities have been lined up for the celebration, including a medical and dental mission for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in Jaro, La Paz, Molo, Arevalo and Mandurriao from August 24 to 28.
The city will also hold the GAD & GLOW: Iloilo City Employees Wellness and Pampering Day at the Iloilo City Hall Penthouse Auditorium on August 27.
Earlier activities included mobile registration services for the Philippine Statistics Authority and National ID at Plaza Libertad on August 10; Pet Fashionista on the RISE, which featured free pet consultations, deworming, anti-rabies vaccinations and a dog adoption drive at Robinsons Place Jaro on August 14; and BSPO and Family Planning Day at the La Paz Plaza Covered Gym on August 20.
Cultural activities included the launch of Saot Ilonggo at SM City Iloilo on July 31 and the Saot Ilonggo Competition at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center on August 21. The Calle Real Charter Day Night Market will cap another part of the celebration from August 28 to 30.
The monthlong festivities also featured numerous sporting events, including karate, volleyball, gymnastics, taekwondo, marathon, pencak silat, arnis, swimming, boxing and darts competitions held in different venues across the city.
Among the concluding sporting events was the 4th Haboyanay sa Ciudad de Iloilo Charter Day National Darts Tournament at the TOMA Compound from August 22 to 24./PN
