The Marcos Jr. administration recently promised to increase salaries and benefits for public school teachers during the National Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. In his speech, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized that supporting teachers is one of the top priorities of his government.
Read: 2024 Benefits and Cash Allowances for DepEd Teachers: Everything You Need to Know
Key Changes for Public School Teachers
President Marcos Jr. stated, “We are committed to ensuring that you have ample resources to teach, whether by additional materials and reducing non-teaching responsibilities.” He further explained that the administration has implemented several measures to improve the lives of the country’s 860,000 public school teachers.
One of these measures is the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which will double the annual teaching allowance for teachers from ₱5,000 to ₱10,000. This allowance will be tax-free, starting in the school year 2025. Additionally, a new medical allowance of ₱7,000 will be introduced beginning in fiscal year 2025.
Career Growth and Development
President Marcos Jr. also signed the implementing rules for Executive Order No. 174, which focuses on professional development and career growth for teachers. One key point of this order is ensuring that no teacher will retire at the Teacher 1 level, which marks a significant change in career progression for educators.
Congress’ Support for Teachers
House Speaker Martin Romualdez also expressed Congress’ support in improving the welfare of teachers. He stated, “I have consulted with the chairman of the appropriations committee, and we will ensure that more classrooms, laptops, and computers are provided.” Romualdez emphasized that the plan includes raising teachers’ salaries, enhancing benefits, and providing opportunities for continuous training and development.
DepEd’s Future Initiatives for Teachers’ Well-being
The Department of Education (DepEd) has also outlined several plans aimed at promoting the well-being of teaching and non-teaching staff. These initiatives include:
- Employee Welfare Policy: DepEd will introduce a policy to address various aspects of employee well-being, including physical, mental, emotional, social, occupational, spiritual, and financial health.
- Mental Health Policy: A new mental health policy will be developed to support the mental well-being of teachers and staff.
- Enhanced Awards Program: DepEd will enhance the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) to recognize outstanding teachers.
- Inclusive Employment Policy: The department aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination in employment, promoting a more inclusive environment for all educators.
Health and Housing Programs
Apart from increasing salaries, DepEd is also working on healthcare and housing programs for teachers:
- PhilHealth Konsulta: DepEd clinics will be accredited as PhilHealth Konsulta Package Providers (KPP), ensuring affordable healthcare access for teachers and employees.
- Housing Project: The department is exploring partnerships with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to offer a housing project specifically for DepEd employees.
Concerns from Teachers’ Groups
For years, teachers’ groups like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) have highlighted issues such as low wages, overwork, and insufficient funding for education. These problems have led many teachers to seek employment abroad for a better life. The recent announcements from the Marcos administration are a direct response to these long-standing concerns.
Conclusion
The Marcos Jr. administration’s promises to increase salaries and improve benefits for public school teachers are a step toward addressing the many challenges faced by educators in the country. With the planned increase in teaching allowances, medical benefits, and career growth opportunities, there is hope that the quality of life for teachers will significantly improve. The support from Congress and future initiatives by the Department of Education further indicate a comprehensive effort to enhance teachers’ welfare.
