On Tuesday, the House of Representatives in Manila, Philippines, passed House Bill No. 8392, which designates national election days as regular non-working holidays. This legislation aims to ensure that Filipinos can vote without the burden of losing a day's wages. The bill received overwhelming support, with 223 lawmakers voting in favor, while there were no votes against and one abstention. The approved measure also includes special electoral activities, such as plebiscites, referendums, and recall elections, under the holiday designation. Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte Representative Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos III stated that this law would alleviate work-related concerns, allowing citizens to focus on exercising their voting rights. Traditionally, national elections, held every three years, have been declared special non-working holidays, but this new bill formalizes that practice. The intent is to encourage higher voter participation and engagement in the electoral process, reinforcing the democratic rights of the Filipino people.