The House of Representatives has committed to improving the salaries, benefits, and access to resources for nearly 1 million public school teachers across the country. Speaker Martin Romualdez made this promise on Thursday during the 2024 National Teachers’ Day celebration at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City.
Supporting Public School Teachers
Romualdez emphasized that Congress will not step back from its promise to support teachers. “In all of the challenges that you face, we in Congress must stress that we will not waver in our promise to give you our continued support in your programs,” Romualdez said. He made it clear that the support would go beyond passing laws and extend to directly improving teachers’ lives.
Focus on Better Salaries and Benefits
Romualdez stressed that this support includes increasing salaries and benefits for teachers. The plan also involves creating more opportunities for teacher training and professional growth. Romualdez assured educators that the current administration, led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and with the help of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, is committed to turning these promises into action.
“Our promise will definitely not end up as mere lip service,” Romualdez stated. He added that the government will make sure teachers have all the tools necessary to succeed in their careers, which will, in turn, benefit the country’s future leaders.
Appreciation for Teachers’ Hard Work
Romualdez expressed gratitude to teachers for their devotion and dedication. He acknowledged the sacrifices teachers make to shape students into productive citizens. “We salute our teachers who have made sacrifices beyond their limits, who always go out of their way to help our students learn,” he said. He added that teachers play a crucial role in preparing students for real-life challenges as they enter the workforce.
Education Reforms Under the Bagong Pilipinas Campaign
Romualdez mentioned that the government would pursue education reforms under the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign. He highlighted that education is the foundation of success and stressed the importance of teachers as pillars of the education system. “As we always say, education is the foundation of everyone’s success, and for which this administration will vigorously pursue in our ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ theme. And you as teachers, being pillars of our education system, will be there as guiding light for our youth,” he said.
Higher Incentive for World Teachers’ Day
In addition to these promises, Makati City Representative Luis Campos Jr. is advocating for a higher World Teachers’ Day Incentive Benefit (WTDIB). Campos has proposed House Bill 7840, which seeks to increase the incentive to PHP3,000 per teacher. This proposal aims to boost the current incentive of PHP1,000 and make it a permanent benefit through legislation.
“We must augment the value of the WTDIB and make the grant of this incentive permanent through legislation,” Campos said. He noted that the government has already allocated PHP912 million for the WTDIB in the 2024 General Appropriations Law. Each public school teacher will receive PHP1,000 on October 5 as part of this funding.
Campos also mentioned that the allocation for 2025 has been raised to PHP955 million to continue providing this annual incentive to teachers. “We are determined to sustain the annual funding for the WTDIB for our teachers. In fact, the 2025 national budget we approved last month includes another PHP955 million allocation for this benefit,” Campos said.
Recognizing Teachers’ Contributions
The WTDIB was first introduced in the 2019 General Appropriations Law with an initial funding of PHP800 million. This benefit aims to recognize the significant contribution of teachers and is distributed every year on World Teachers’ Day, which is celebrated on October 5. The celebration is in line with Republic Act 10743, which declares October 5 as National Teachers’ Day, aligning with UNESCO’s worldwide celebration.
New Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Law
Campos also highlighted Congress’s commitment to funding the newly enacted “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Law” (Republic Act No. 11997). This law provides a PHP10,000 annual teaching allowance for public school teachers, which will start in the school year 2025-2026. This new allowance will double the current amount of PHP5,000 that teachers receive, offering more support to educators in their vital role.
Conclusion
The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Romualdez, is dedicated to improving the lives of public school teachers by raising salaries, increasing benefits, and providing more opportunities for training and development. With new laws and proposals, the government aims to show teachers that their hard work is valued and supported. By ensuring these changes, the government hopes to strengthen the country’s education system and provide a better future for both educators and students.
