The Department of Education (DepEd) announced that around 140,000 positions will become available for public school teachers across the country in 2025. These opportunities are part of the Career Progression Program, which aims to offer teachers more paths for career advancement. The announcement was made following the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Executive Order (EO) No. 174, Series of 2022, which aims to expand the career progression system for public school teachers.
Government Support for Teachers
Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting teachers. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of valuing teachers during his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA). He assured that public school teachers would have more opportunities for career growth and would not retire in the same position they started in.
More Paths for Career Growth
DepEd Undersecretary Wilfredo Cabral explained that the Career Progression Program would offer teachers the chance to advance in their careers through two main tracks: teaching and administration.
Teaching Track:
- Teacher IV at salary grade (SG) 14
- Teacher V at SG 15
- Teacher VI at SG 16
- Teacher VII at SG 17
- Master Teacher V at SG 22
Administrative Track:
- Positions for School Principals I, II, III, and IV
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has set aside PHP 1.1 billion in the 2024 budget to support this initiative, with an additional PHP 6.1 billion planned for 2025. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman mentioned that more funds could be allocated if the number of positions exceeds 140,000.
Teachers Welcome the Change
The Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC) praised the new career progression system. TDC Chairperson Benjo Basas said that having separate tracks for teaching and administration is practical. It allows teachers to choose a path that suits their skills and interests without being forced into administrative roles just for advancement.
Benefits for Teachers
In addition to career progression opportunities, teachers will also benefit from:
- Personal accident insurance from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)
- Special Hardship Allowance
- Other teaching allowances under the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act
Secretary Angara stated that these changes would enhance the quality of education in the country. Teachers’ skills and experience will be better utilized, benefiting both the educators and their students.
