Government offices will operate on a reduced schedule on September 22nd.
The Philippine government has announced a week-long commemoration of the National Family Week, starting from the last week of September. This year marks the 33rd observance of the event, also known as "Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga" Day, which emphasizes the importance of families sharing meals together.
In accordance with Proclamation 60 issued in 1992, the National Committee on the Filipino Family is leading the national observance of Family Week. The committee, mandated to uphold and promote the family as the cornerstone of the nation's development and well-being, organizes the programs and activities for the celebration.
Memorandum Circular (MC) 96, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Friday, encourages government workers to support the programs and activities for the observance of Family Week. The circular, posted on the Presidential Communications Office's official website on Friday night, takes effect immediately.
The week-long commemoration aims to promote unity, solidarity, and the stability of the Filipino family. It underscores the critical role that Filipino families play in nation-building, especially in shaping values and nurturing future generations.
In line with the celebration, work suspension in government offices under the Executive branch starts at 1 p.m. on September 22. However, government agencies providing basic, health services, disaster preparedness and response, or other vital functions will continue operations to ensure the smooth running of essential services.
The observance of National Family Week and Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day highlights the importance of celebrating and strengthening the Filipino family. The government encourages the suspension of work in other branches of government, independent commissions or bodies, and the private sector to allow families to celebrate the National Family Week.
The Philippine government has shortened work hours in state offices and departments on September 22 to allow employees to participate in Family Week activities. The suspension of work is intended to provide families with an opportunity to spend quality time together, reinforcing the importance of family values in society.
As the National Family Week and Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day approach, the National Committee on the Filipino Family calls on all Filipinos to join in the celebration and to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening their families and the nation as a whole.