On March 17, 2025, Mexico will observe a mandatory holiday commemorative of the birth of Benito Juárez, one of the nation's most revered political figures. This recognition, anchored by the Federal Labor Law (LFT), respects not only the historical significance but also the rights of workers across various sectors.
The LFT specifies, "Employees who work on mandatory rest days are entitled to special compensation," making it clear workers who must labor on this holiday are compensated threefold. Specifically, according to Article 75 of the LFT, employees are entitled to their normal salary plus double pay, effectively amounting to triple pay for the day's work.
Various sectors will remain operational, as is typical on holidays. Essential services such as healthcare will see hospitals, clinics, and emergency medical services providing care to those in need. Likewise, police, firefighters, and civil protection personnel will be actively working to safeguard the public.
Public transport services, including buses and airports, will continue to operate to accommodate those traveling during the long weekend. Many hotels and restaurants will also remain open due to increased tourism during this period, ensuring visitors have access to leisure and dining options.
Despite the day being designated as one of rest, the City Council of Gómez Palacio has announced closures for municipal offices on March 17. The offices will not reopen until Tuesday, March 18, and citizens are advised to complete any urgent business beforehand. Mayor Leticia Herrera Ale has even mandated increased security measures during this holiday to monitor areas where citizens tend to congregate, ensuring their safety.
Those who find themselves required to work on this day should be vigilant about their rights under the law. If employers neglect to provide the due compensation or fail to uphold the right to rest, workers have the recourse to contact the Federal Labor Defense Attorney's Office (PROFEDET). Individuals can report violations directly to this body, which is committed to upholding labor rights.
For those unsure how to calculate what they should be paid for working during this holiday, it’s quite straightforward. If someone earns 15,000 pesos per month, the calculation begins by dividing this sum by the days of the month. For March, with 31 days total, this means employees would earn approximately 483.87 pesos per day. The holiday pay due would total around 1,451.61 pesos for those working on March 17.
Overall, March 17 serves not only as a solemn remembrance of Benito Juárez's contributions to Mexico but also as an opportunity to reflect on the rights afforded to workers. With the spirit of cooperation and adherence to the established norms, both employees and employers can navigate this holiday seamlessly.
Officials have reiterated the point to employers, emphasizing the legal requirement to respect worker rights, which includes ensuring compliance with payment regulations. It’s clear this holiday is multi-faceted, encompassing labor rights and collective memory.
This year's upcoming holidays also include significant dates such as Labor Day on May 1, the elections of the Judicial Power on June 1, and Independence Day on September 16. Each of these dates serve to remind the populace of their rights, obligations, and, of course, the historical significance embedded within the national calendar.
Mark your calendars and secure your plans early, especially if your work schedule requires you to be on duty during these important festas. Engaging with the labor laws reinforces personal rights and ensures compliance, highlighting the importance of awareness and action during these celebratory occasions.
For labor compliance queries or issues, do not hesitate to reach out to PROFEDET for assistance—it’s your right and the law to be compensated fairly and to rest. Therefore, as you prepare for this holiday, be informed about your rights, ready to advocate for them, and aware of the responsibilities of your employer.