Colombia’s work calendar will have a new holiday weekend this Monday, July 13. Although the rule that created this date was sued before the Constitutional Court, Paid time off remains in effect and must be recognized by employers in the public and private sectors while the high court makes a final decision on its validity.
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The date was born from the Law 2578 of 2026, issued by the Congress, which declared the July 9 like him Day of Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá.
Since this year the celebration falls during the week, the break was moved to the following Monday, in accordance with the rules of the Emiliani Law, which allows moving some holidays to make up long weekends.
The new holiday weekend remains in force while demand progresses. Photo:iStock
The lawsuit has not yet changed the calendar
Although a citizen filed a claim of unconstitutionality against the law, the process has only just begun and there is no decision that suspends its effects. Consequently, Monday, July 13, remains a official holiday in Colombia.
Among the arguments presented by the plaintiff is an alleged violation of the principle of secular state, in addition to questions about the economic impact that the measure would have for companies, especially smaller ones. It is also noted that the rule would have lacked sufficient analysis of its fiscal effects.
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However, labor law specialists consulted by national media agree that simply filing a lawsuit does not eliminate a law or modify the obligations it establishes.
Just one ruling of the Constitutional Court that declares the norm unenforceable could remove it from the legal system.
The break applies to workers in the public and private sectors. Photo:iStock
What happens if a person must work that day?
While the law remains in force, companies must recognize the holiday in accordance with Colombian labor legislation. This means that those who do not work will have the right to paid rest corresponding.
In the event that a worker must provide his services during the day, The employer must pay the surcharges established by law for work on holidays. That obligation remains unchanged as long as the Court does not adopt a decision that modifies the scope of the rule.
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Labor lawyers have also recommended workers and employers to pay attention only to the official pronouncements of the Constitutional Court and of Ministry of Labor.
It is these entities that will define whether the new holiday will remain permanently or if, after legal analysis, it will no longer be part of the national calendar.
The day must be recognized by employers. Photo:iStock
For now, the outlook is that the holiday weekend on Monday, July 13, 2026 remains in force. Consequently, companies must apply the labor rules provided for this type of workday until there is a final ruling that determines the future of Law 2578 of 2026.
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MARÍA PAULA LOZANO
DRAFTING SCOPE DIGITAL
