School breaks will follow the Philippine government’s official public holiday calendar. On these days, there will be no classes and no make-up classes. The Philippines does not implement compensatory leave, and the holiday schedule is subject to change based on the latest government announcements.
If you are planning or considering studying English in the Philippines, it is essential to prepare a detailed plan — organizing your personal schedule, choosing the right departure time, selecting the most cost-effective travel period, and researching airline options. There is a lot of information to look into. HLA would like to share with you the official holiday calendar of the Philippines — one of the key details that can help you choose the most suitable time to study abroad.
If you want to study English while also experiencing traditional and vibrant local festivals, January is the perfect time for you. This is when the Philippines’ biggest festival, Sinulog, takes place — a religious celebration particularly significant in Cebu and throughout the country. The festival features grand street parades, with participants wearing elaborately designed and colorful costumes.
If you’re curious to experience Christmas and New Year in a country where nearly 100% of the population practices a religion, then consider enrolling in an English course in December. The festive atmosphere is truly remarkable — colorful decorations everywhere, malls offering big sales, and countless entertainment and holiday activities every week.
Some students may be concerned about the number of holidays in a month, but there’s no need to worry. In fact, public holidays in the Philippines offer great opportunities for students to explore new aspects of local culture and religion. The experiences and insights you gain while studying English in the Philippines will definitely surprise and enrich you.
