MANILA,the Philippines- Philippine President Benigno Aquino III has declared January 23, 2012 as a special non-working day to celebrate the Chinese New Year in the country, a senior government official said Thursday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesman Abigail Valte said the declaration was contained in Proclamation No 295, which Aquino signed on November 24.

"On January 23, 2012, the Chinese nationals all over the world will celebrate Spring Festival, popularly known as the Chinese New Year, which is one of the most revered and festive events celebrated not only in China but also in the Philippines by both Chinese-Filipinos and ordinary Filipinos as well," the proclamation said.

"The joint celebration is a manifestation of our solidarity with our Chinese-Filipino brethren who have been part of our lives in many respects as a country and as a people," it added.

The proclamation said declaring January 23, which falls on a Monday, as a non-working day is without detriment to public interest.