Ecuadorian president suspends workday in Loja for religious pilgrimage

President Daniel Noboa has issued Executive Decree 475, suspending the workday in Ecuador's Loja province on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The decree applies to both public and private sectors and is timed to coincide with a significant religious event: the arrival of the image of the Virgen de El Cisne (Virgin of the Swan) in the city for a major Catholic pilgrimage.

The decision aims to facilitate greater citizen participation in the Romería de la Virgen de El Cisne, one of Ecuador's most important Catholic manifestations. The pilgrimage, which began on Monday, August 17, lasts for three days, culminating on August 20 with the image's reception in Loja. The suspension is intended to ease pilgrim movement and ensure safe, orderly transit, while also supporting the preservation of Loja's cultural traditions and identity.

Employees in both public and private sectors will be required to recover the suspended work hours. Public sector employees will add an extra hour to their workday on subsequent working days. Private sector workers can follow the same recovery mechanism outlined in the decree. The government has ensured that essential public services, including water, electricity, health, and fire services, will continue to operate without interruption on August 20. Airport, port, and banking services will also remain available.

The decree tasks the Ministries of Labor and Human Development, Economic Development and Productive, and Government with coordinating the implementation of this measure. The annual pilgrimage of 'La Churonita,' as the Virgen del Cisne is affectionately known for her long curls, begins on August 17 from San Pedro de la Bendita and travels to Loja, where the image remains until November 1. This devotional journey draws participants from across Ecuador and abroad, marked by long walks, religious celebrations, and accompanying activities.