Why Do DepEd Teachers Retire After 15 Years of Service?

Many teachers in the Philippines look forward to their retirement, but why do some choose to retire as soon as they complete 15 years of service? Here are some common reasons:

1. Seeking Opportunities Abroad: A significant number of teachers decide to leave their teaching positions in the Philippines to try their luck in other countries. They hope to find better job opportunities or higher salaries overseas.
2. Workload and Stress: Teaching can be a very demanding job. The pressure to meet educational standards, coupled with a heavy workload, can lead to stress. For some teachers, this stress becomes too much, prompting them to retire early.
3. Health Concerns: The job’s physical and mental demands can affect a teacher’s health. Some may face health issues that make continuing in the profession difficult, leading them to choose early retirement.
4. Further Education or Career Change: Some teachers retire to pursue higher education or explore a different career path. They might want to study further or try their hand at a new profession or business venture.
5. Starting a Business: After years of teaching, some individuals decide to retire and start their own businesses. This new venture offers them a different kind of challenge and the opportunity to be their own boss.
6. Personal Choice: Finally, some teachers simply choose to retire after 15 years for personal reasons. They may want to spend more time with their families, travel, or enjoy hobbies.

Benefits of Retiring After 15 Years

Under RA 8291, teachers and government employees who have completed at least 15 years of service are entitled to retirement benefits, provided they are at least 60 years old and not considered permanently disabled. The benefits include:

• Option 1: 5-Year Lump Sum and Old Age Pension: Retirees can opt to receive a lump sum equal to 60 months of their Basic Monthly Pension (BMP) upfront. After this period, they will receive a monthly pension.
• Option 2: Cash Payment and Monthly Pension: Another option is to take a cash payment equivalent to 18 times the BMP at retirement and then receive a monthly pension for life.

The BMP is calculated based on the average monthly compensation and the total period with paid premiums. It ensures that retirees have a financial safety net after they leave their teaching positions.

Source: GSIS

Conclusion

Retiring after 15 years of service is a significant decision for DepEd teachers in the Philippines. Whether driven by the desire for new opportunities, health concerns, or the wish for a change, retirement comes with benefits designed to provide financial support. These benefits ensure that teachers can look forward to their retirement years with peace of mind and security. – Avril | Helpline PH