Undas is one of those occasions in the Philippines when almost everyone seems to be going somewhere.

Some families travel back to their hometowns. Others spend the day at cemeteries visiting parents, grandparents, relatives, and friends who have passed away. There are flowers to buy, candles to light, graves to clean, prayers to offer—and, of course, plenty of family reunions happening along the way.

For 2026, Filipinos have another reason to plan early because both November 1 and November 2 are officially designated special non-working days.

And because November 2 falls on a Monday, the Undas observance creates a convenient three-day weekend for many employees.

So, is November 1, 2026 a holiday? Is November 2 also a holiday? Do employees get holiday pay? When should you travel? And what should you expect at cemeteries, airports, bus terminals, and highways?

Here’s a complete guide to Undas 2026.

Is November 1, 2026 a Holiday in the Philippines?

Yes.

November 1, 2026 – Sunday

All Saints’ Day

Special Non-Working Day

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially included All Saints’ Day among the special non-working days for 2026 under Proclamation No. 1006, which sets the country’s nationwide holidays for the year.

The only catch for workers with a traditional Monday-to-Friday schedule is that November 1 falls on a Sunday.

So while it is officially a special non-working day, many people would normally have the day off anyway.

The bigger holiday for long-weekend purposes comes the following day.

Is November 2, 2026 a Holiday?

Yes.

November 2, 2026 – Monday

All Souls’ Day

Additional Special Non-Working Day

Malacañang specifically declared November 2 an additional special non-working day nationwide for 2026.

The proclamation explained that giving Filipinos the day off provides more time for traditional All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day activities, strengthens family ties, and can also help promote domestic tourism.

This is important because November 2 is not automatically a nationwide non-working holiday every year.

Its status depends on the holiday proclamation issued for that particular year.

For 2026, however, there is no question:

November 2 is officially an additional special non-working day.

Undas 2026 Long Weekend

Here’s how the calendar lines up:

Date	Day	Status
October 31, 2026	Saturday	Weekend
November 1, 2026	Sunday	All Saints’ Day – Special Non-Working Day
November 2, 2026	Monday	All Souls’ Day – Additional Special Non-Working Day

For employees who normally work Monday through Friday, that means:

October 31 to November 2, 2026

3-day Undas long weekend

No vacation leave is required.

This will probably make Friday, October 30 one of the busiest travel days leading into the holiday period, especially in the afternoon and evening when people begin leaving Metro Manila and other major cities.

Monday evening, November 2, could also become busy as travelers head back home before work resumes on Tuesday.

Quick Guide to Undas 2026

If you just need the important details:

November 1, Sunday – All Saints’ Day
Special Non-Working Day

November 2, Monday – All Souls’ Day
Additional Special Non-Working Day

October 31 to November 2 – Three-day weekend for many workers

Tuesday, November 3 – Regular working day unless your employer, school, or local government announces otherwise

That makes Undas 2026 particularly convenient for Filipinos traveling to their home provinces.

What Is Undas?

“Undas” is the Filipino term commonly used for the annual observance surrounding All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

For many Filipino families, Undas is much more than simply a holiday.

It is a family tradition.

Millions visit cemeteries and memorial parks to remember loved ones who have died. Graves are cleaned and decorated. Families bring flowers, light candles, offer prayers, attend Mass, and spend time together.

In some communities, people also return to their ancestral hometowns during Undas even when the relatives they are visiting passed away many years ago.

That is why Undas can sometimes feel almost like a nationwide homecoming.

What Is the Difference Between All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day?

The two dates are closely associated with each other in the Philippines, but technically they commemorate different things.

November 1 – All Saints’ Day

All Saints’ Day is traditionally dedicated to honoring all saints, including saints who do not have individual feast days.

It is a major observance in the Catholic Church.

November 2 – All Souls’ Day

All Souls’ Day is traditionally dedicated to praying for the faithful departed.

This is the date more specifically associated with prayers for deceased loved ones.

The Presidential Communications Office has similarly explained that All Saints’ Day honors Christian saints while All Souls’ Day is centered on remembrance and prayers for the dead.

In actual Filipino practice, however, families often visit cemeteries on November 1 rather than waiting until November 2.

Many also begin visiting as early as October 31.

So the entire October 31-November 2 period has become associated with Undas.

Why Is November 2 a Holiday in 2026?

November 2 is not one of the permanently fixed special non-working holidays under the same category as November 1.

Instead, President Marcos declared it an additional special non-working day for 2026.

According to Proclamation No. 1006, November 2 was added so Filipinos would have more time for traditional All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day activities, family gatherings, and domestic travel.

And looking at the 2026 calendar, the timing makes sense.

Because November 1 falls on Sunday, declaring Monday, November 2 non-working effectively gives many families a full three-day weekend.

That gives people more time to travel to the provinces without having to rush home immediately after visiting the cemetery.

When Should You Travel for Undas 2026?

If you’re planning to return to your province, timing can make a huge difference.

The heaviest travel demand will likely begin before the actual holiday.

Thursday, October 29

Travel may start picking up, especially among people taking Friday off to avoid the crowds.

If your schedule is flexible, leaving Thursday evening could be one of the easier options.

Friday, October 30

Expect this to be one of the busiest departure days.

Many workers will finish their shifts Friday and travel immediately afterward.

Provincial bus terminals, airports, expressways, ports, and major roads could become much busier from afternoon into the evening.

Saturday, October 31

Travel will likely remain heavy, particularly in the morning.

Many families who did not travel Friday will leave Saturday because they still have enough time to prepare for cemetery visits the following day.

Sunday, November 1

Expect cemeteries and memorial parks to be extremely busy.

Traffic around major burial grounds can become congested, and some local governments may impose temporary road closures, rerouting schemes, parking restrictions, or designated drop-off areas.

Monday, November 2

There may still be significant cemetery traffic during the day.

Later in the afternoon and evening, attention shifts to the return trip.

Expect more passengers traveling back toward Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao and other major urban areas.

Tuesday, November 3

For most people, it’s back to work.

Expect Heavy Traffic Around Cemeteries

If you’ve experienced Undas in the Philippines before, you already know what this can look like.

Roads surrounding major public cemeteries and memorial parks can become packed with vehicles and pedestrians.

Some LGUs typically introduce traffic management plans around major cemeteries.

These may include:

temporary road closures

one-way traffic schemes

no-parking zones

designated entrances and exits

pedestrian-only areas

public transport rerouting

drop-off and pickup points

However, specific traffic arrangements for Undas 2026 will usually be announced closer to the holiday.

So if you’re heading to a major cemetery, check your local government’s official advisory before leaving home.

Don’t rely solely on last year’s traffic scheme because routes can change.

Expect Busy Bus Terminals

For provincial travelers, the Undas rush can begin days before November 1.

Major bus terminals serving destinations across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao may experience higher passenger volumes.

If you’re traveling from Metro Manila, buses heading toward destinations in:

Cavite
Batangas
Laguna
Quezon
Bicol
Bulacan
Pampanga
Nueva Ecija
Pangasinan
La Union
Ilocos
Cagayan Valley

and other provinces could become much busier than usual.

If advance reservations are available for your route, booking early can save you from waiting for hours at the terminal.

For buses operating on a first-come, first-served basis, arriving well before your intended departure is usually safer.

Airports Will Also Be Busy

Undas is also a major domestic travel period.

Many Filipinos fly home to the Visayas and Mindanao, especially when land travel would take too long.

Flights to destinations such as:

Cebu
Davao
Iloilo
Bacolod
Cagayan de Oro
Tacloban
Roxas
Kalibo
Tagbilaran
Puerto Princesa
General Santos

may see stronger demand around the holiday.

If you’re flying during the Undas weekend, don’t treat it like an ordinary travel day.

Allow more time for airport check-in, security screening, baggage drop and transportation going to the terminal.

Should You Book Flights Early?

Definitely.

Undas isn’t usually the time to wait for a last-minute bargain.

The most convenient schedules—especially Friday evening departures and Monday return flights—can become expensive as demand increases.

If you already know you’ll be going home, booking earlier gives you more choices.

You may also find cheaper fares by traveling:

Thursday instead of Friday

early Saturday instead of Friday evening

Tuesday morning instead of Monday evening

Of course, that only works if your work schedule allows it.

Undas Cemetery Guide

Visiting the cemetery may be familiar to most Filipinos, but a little preparation can make the day much easier.

Go Early

If possible, arrive early in the morning.

The combination of crowds and midday heat can make cemetery visits uncomfortable later in the day.

Arriving early also improves your chances of finding parking.

Bring Water

You’ll likely spend a lot of time walking, standing, and sitting outdoors.

Stay hydrated.

Bring an Umbrella

November is generally toward the end of the Philippine rainy season, but sudden rain is still possible.

An umbrella also helps with the heat.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Undas isn’t the best time for complicated outfits.

Light clothing and comfortable footwear are much more practical, particularly if you have to walk a considerable distance from the parking area.

Bring Only What You Need

Cemeteries can become extremely crowded.

Carrying fewer valuables makes moving through the area easier and reduces the risk of losing something.

Check Cemetery Rules

Large cemeteries and memorial parks may impose rules regarding items that can be brought inside.

Some LGUs or cemetery administrators may restrict:

alcoholic beverages

weapons and sharp objects

loud sound systems

gambling materials

flammable materials

large tents

certain cooking equipment

The exact rules vary, so check the cemetery’s announcement before your visit.

Flowers, Candles and Food

One familiar scene during Undas is the row of temporary stalls outside cemeteries selling flowers, candles, bottled water and snacks.

Prices can sometimes increase as demand grows.

If you want to save money, buying flowers or candles ahead of time may help.

Some families also bring food and eat together beside the grave.

Whether this is allowed depends on the cemetery.

Private memorial parks may have stricter policies than public cemeteries.

Remember to Clean Up

Undas generates a huge amount of waste.

Candle containers, food packaging, plastic bags, bottles and wilted flowers can quickly pile up around cemeteries.

Bring a small garbage bag and clean your area before leaving.

It seems simple, but when millions of people are visiting cemeteries at roughly the same time, responsible waste disposal makes a big difference.

Undas Safety Tips

Crowded places require a little more awareness.

Keep phones and wallets secure.

Watch children carefully.

If you’re traveling as a family, decide on a meeting point in case someone gets separated.

Avoid leaving valuables visible inside parked vehicles.

Follow police, traffic enforcer and cemetery personnel instructions.

And if you’re bringing elderly family members, consider how much walking they will have to do.

A cemetery visit that seems easy for younger adults can be exhausting for senior citizens, particularly in hot weather.

Is There Work on November 1 and 2, 2026?

Both dates are classified as special non-working days.

But that doesn’t mean absolutely every business in the Philippines closes.

Hospitals, hotels, restaurants, BPO companies, transportation services, airports, convenience stores, malls, emergency services and other establishments may continue operating.

Individual employers determine staffing based on business requirements while following applicable labor rules.

November 1 also falls on a Sunday, so whether someone would normally be scheduled to work depends heavily on their industry.

November 2 is Monday and therefore has a bigger impact on regular weekday operations.

November 1 & 2 Holiday Pay Rules

Because November 1 and November 2 are special non-working days, they generally follow the special-day pay rules rather than the rules for regular holidays.

For covered private-sector workers, DOLE’s standard rule for a special non-working day is:

If you do not work

The general principle is:

“No work, no pay.”

However, you may still be paid if your company has a more favorable policy, established practice, employment contract, or collective bargaining agreement.

If you work

For the first eight hours:

Basic wage × 130%

That means you generally receive an additional 30 percent of your basic wage for the day.

If the special day is also your rest day

If you work on a special non-working day that is also your scheduled rest day:

Basic wage × 150%

DOLE’s current rules provide the higher premium when the special day coincides with an employee’s rest day.

This may be particularly relevant on Sunday, November 1 for employees whose normal rest day is Sunday.

Overtime work carries additional premium-pay rules.

DOLE may still issue a specific labor advisory for the November 2026 holidays closer to Undas, so employees and employers should check the latest advisory when it becomes available.

Are Banks Open on November 2?

Because November 2 is a nationwide special non-working day, many bank branches may be closed.

However, don’t assume every branch will follow exactly the same operating schedule.

Branches located inside malls, airports or other commercial establishments may have different arrangements.

ATMs, mobile banking and online banking services generally remain available, although transactions involving another bank or clearing system may be processed on the next banking day depending on the transaction.

If you need cash for your Undas trip, it’s probably better to withdraw before the holiday rush.

Are Government Offices Open?

Most regular government offices are generally closed during nationwide special non-working days.

Essential government services, emergency response, law enforcement, transportation operations and similar functions may continue.

If you need to process documents at agencies such as government offices, plan to complete your transaction before the Undas weekend.

Don’t wait until Monday, November 2.

Are Malls Open During Undas?

Many malls usually remain open during Undas, but some may operate on adjusted schedules.

Individual malls typically release their November 1 and 2 operating hours closer to the holiday.

Supermarkets, cinemas, restaurants and individual tenants can also follow different schedules.

So check the official page of the mall you plan to visit.

Will There Be Classes on November 2?

Since November 2 is an additional special non-working day nationwide, regular classes are generally not expected on that date.

But schools and universities may have their own academic calendars surrounding Undas, including longer semestral or midterm breaks.

Students should therefore check their school’s official calendar rather than assuming that the break is limited to November 2.

Are November 1 and November 2 Regular Holidays?

No.

This distinction matters.

Both are special non-working days in 2026.

November 1 is listed as a special non-working day.

November 2 is an additional special non-working day.

They are not regular holidays like Christmas Day, Independence Day or Bonifacio Day.

That is why the employee pay rules are different.

Could November 3 Also Be Declared a Holiday?

As things currently stand, no nationwide holiday has been declared for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

The official nationwide Undas holiday period covers November 1 and November 2.

Tuesday, November 3 should therefore be treated as a regular working day unless the national government, an LGU, a school, or an employer later issues a separate announcement that applies to you.

Don’t extend your trip based on rumors of another holiday.

Is October 31 a Holiday?

October 31, 2026 falls on a Saturday.

It is not listed as a nationwide special non-working holiday under Proclamation No. 1006.

However, for employees who normally have Saturdays off, it still becomes the first day of the three-day Undas weekend.

And because October 31 is the day immediately before All Saints’ Day, many families may choose to visit cemeteries that Saturday to avoid the biggest November 1 crowds.

Where Can You Go During the Undas Long Weekend?

Not everyone spends the entire weekend at the cemetery.

For many Filipino families, Undas is also an opportunity to spend time together after paying respects to loved ones.

Because Monday is a holiday, short trips become possible.

Some popular options include:

Tagaytay and Cavite

Batangas

Laguna

Rizal

Quezon

Bataan

Zambales

Pangasinan

La Union

Baguio

If you’re traveling primarily for leisure, however, remember that roads used by people returning to their provinces may still be congested.

Leaving earlier or choosing a less busy destination can make the trip more enjoyable.

When Is the Next Holiday After Undas?

Filipinos don’t have to wait too long.

November 30, 2026 – Monday

Bonifacio Day

Bonifacio Day is a regular holiday.

And because it falls on a Monday in 2026, it gives many workers another three-day weekend later in November.

So November 2026 actually has two very convenient long-weekend opportunities:

October 31-November 2 – Undas weekend

November 28-30 – Bonifacio Day weekend

Not bad for anyone planning quick trips before the Christmas travel season begins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Undas 2026

Is November 1, 2026 a holiday?

Yes. November 1, All Saints’ Day, is a nationwide special non-working day. It falls on a Sunday in 2026.

Is November 2, 2026 a holiday?

Yes. November 2, All Souls’ Day, has been declared an additional special non-working day nationwide under Proclamation No. 1006.

Is November 2 a regular holiday?

No. It is an additional special non-working day.

Is November 1 a regular holiday?

No. All Saints’ Day is classified as a special non-working day.

Is there a long weekend for Undas 2026?

Yes.

For many Monday-to-Friday employees, the break runs from Saturday, October 31 through Monday, November 2.

That’s three consecutive days off.

Is October 31 a holiday?

No nationwide holiday is currently declared for October 31, 2026. It simply falls on a Saturday.

Is November 3 a holiday?

No nationwide holiday has been declared for November 3 as of the official 2026 holiday calendar.

Is there holiday pay on November 1 and 2?

For covered private-sector employees who work on a special non-working day, the standard DOLE rate for the first eight hours is generally 130 percent of the basic wage. If the special day also falls on the employee’s scheduled rest day, the standard rate is generally 150 percent.

Employees who don’t work generally follow the “no work, no pay” rule unless a company policy, CBA or more favorable practice provides otherwise.

When should I visit the cemetery?

November 1 will probably have the largest crowds.

If your family’s traditions allow it, visiting October 31 or November 2 may help you avoid some of the peak congestion, although both dates can still be busy.

When should I travel back to Metro Manila?

Monday afternoon and evening could be particularly busy.

If you have flexibility, returning earlier Monday or on Tuesday may be easier—but only if your work schedule permits.

Final Thoughts

Undas 2026 gives Filipinos something many families will appreciate: more time.

November 1 falls on Sunday and is officially a special non-working day, while Monday, November 2 has been declared an additional special non-working day under Proclamation No. 1006.

For many workers, that creates a three-day weekend from October 31 through November 2.

But Undas isn’t really about getting an extra day away from work.

For Filipino families, it’s one of those traditions that brings generations together.

We travel hours back to our hometowns. We clean graves. We bring flowers. We light candles. We sit together, tell stories, remember people who used to sit at the same table with us, and somehow turn an occasion about loss into a reminder of family.

If you’re traveling for Undas this year, plan early.

Expect heavier traffic starting October 30, book provincial transportation or flights ahead when possible, watch for cemetery and LGU traffic advisories closer to November, and give yourself more time than usual.

Most of all, whether you’re visiting a cemetery, traveling home to the province, attending Mass, or simply lighting a candle at home, Undas remains a chance to remember the people who came before us—and to spend a little more time with the family that’s still here.