La Trinidad, Benguet – Benguet Day will now officially be held every 23rd of November following the recent signing of Republic Act 12099. 

RA 12099, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. into law last Dec. 13 recognizes Nov. 23 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the province to be known as Benguet Day in commemoration of its foundation day.      

Benguet Rep. Eric Go Yap, who authored the measure explained the 23rd of November 1900 was the momentous day when the first civil government in Benguet was established. 

The lawmaker pointed out that the rich history of Benguet indicates that although the people of the province are comprised of different groups, tribes, and cultures, they have harmoniously co-existed through the government established then for the said purpose. 

The declaration of every November 23rd as a special non-working holiday in Benguet “will surely provide the appropriate opportunity for the province to revisit its past and re-connect with its roots.” 

He also explained that when the holiday falls on a Saturday or a Sunday, the holiday shall be observed on the Monday that follows. 

The law also repealed RA 7672 declaring June 18 as a special non – working holiday in the province. — Artemio A. Dumlao