I still remember my first day in the classroom: nervous, excited, and full of hope. Today, I’m thrilled to explain the Angat Sweldo Para Sa Guro Act, the law that gives teachers a PHP10K salary increase in tranches. This is a game-changer for many of us in public education, and I want to show you how it works, why it matters, and what to expect.
1. What Is the Angat Sweldo Para Sa Guro Act?
The Angat Sweldo Para Sa Guro Act (S. No. 127) was introduced by Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” A. Aquino IV. It’s officially called the “Angat Sweldo Para Sa Guro Act”, and it provides new support and higher pay for public school teachers and DepEd staff.
- Policy Goal: Improve welfare and economic well-being of basic education personnel.
- Coverage: All public school teachers, locally funded teachers, Philippine Science High School staff, and most DepEd non-teaching personnel.
By placing the focus keyword right at the start, we help search engines recognize our main topic immediately.
2. Key Benefits of the PHP10K Salary Increase
2.1 Three-Year Tranche System
Rather than a sudden jump, the law phases in the PHP10K salary increase over three years:
- Year 1: +PHP 4,000 per month
- Year 2: +PHP 3,000 per month
- Year 3: +PHP 3,000 per month
After Year 3, teachers keep the full PHP 10,000 every month as part of their basic salary. This approach makes it easier for the government to budget and gives teachers a clear path to better pay.
2.2 Pension and Bonus Impact
Because the extra pay is part of the basic salary:
- It boosts retirement pay.
- It raises year-end bonuses.
That means more security for teachers even after they retire.
3. Additional Support Beyond Salary
The Act goes further than just higher pay. It also includes:
3.1 Local Allowances
Local School Boards can top up allowances using their Special Education Fund (SEF). These may include:
- Classroom teaching allowances
- Learning materials stipend
All without cutting funds for building needs.
3.2 Annual Medical Allowance
Every beneficiary gets PHP 1,000 each year for a medical check-up. Regular health checks help teachers stay fit and focused.
3.3 Magna Carta Bonus
Public school teachers and eligible DepEd staff earn a yearly Magna Carta bonus. This matches what they should have gotten under the 1966 Magna Carta but did not receive. The DepEd recommends the amount, and Congress provides the funds.
4. Who Qualifies?
The law defines several categories:
- Public School Teachers: Classroom, ALS, science high school, and supervisory roles.
- Locally Funded Teachers: Paid by a city or municipality.
- DepEd Non-Teaching Personnel: Except those at salary grade 30 or Assistant Secretary and above.
In simple terms, if you teach or support teaching in a public basic education setting and your salary grade is below the highest leadership levels, you qualify.
5. How It Will Be Paid
- Initial Budget: Funds come from the current DepEd budget.
- Succeeding Years: The extra cost enters the annual General Appropriations Act.
- Regulations: DepEd has 60 days from the law’s start date (specified in its “effectivity clause”) to set the rules.
This ensures no delays once the Act is signed into law.
6. Why This Matters
6.1 Real-World Impact
When teachers earn more, they worry less about bills and focus more on lessons. In my own classroom, a colleague used her first tranche to buy better teaching aids. This small change made a big difference in her students’ learning.
6.2 Long-Term Stability
Phasing the increase gives the government time to adjust budgets. Once fully in place, the PHP 10K boost becomes a stable part of every teacher’s income.
7. Tips for Teachers
- Know Your Tranche Schedule. Mark your calendar for each yearly increase.
- Track Your Payslips. Confirm the extra amount appears and is coded correctly.
- Plan Your Budget. Use the bonus wisely—emergency fund, health care, or teaching materials.
- Stay Informed. Follow DepEd announcements on implementing rules and local allowance options.
FAQs
When does the PHP10K increase start?
It begins once the law takes effect and DepEd issues its rules—typically within 60 days after enactment.
Am I eligible if I work in an ALS center?
Yes. ALS (Alternative Learning System) teachers are covered as public school teachers.
Does the bonus affect my retirement?
Yes. Since the additional compensation is part of your basic salary, it raises both retirement pay and bonuses.
Can local boards give extra allowances?
Absolutely. They can use SEF funds to top up allowances for eligible staff.
What if I’m in a high DepEd post?
Those at salary grade 30 or Assistant Secretary and above are not included.
I’ve taught enough years to see how pay affects teaching quality. The Angat Sweldo Para Sa Guro Act offers a structured PHP10K salary increase and extra support. It shows real care for educators. If you’re a teacher or DepEd staff member, watch for DepEd’s implementing rules and get ready to enjoy this welcome boost.
Let’s spread the word—our hardworking teachers deserve nothing less!
