Teaching Supplies Allowance Bill
The Philippine House of Representatives has recently passed House Bill 9682, known as the Teaching Supplies Allowance Act. This bill aims to increase the annual teaching supplies allowance provided to public school teachers. The key details of the bill include:
- Increase in Allowance: The current yearly allowance of PHP 5,000 will be raised to PHP 7,500 per teacher for the School Year 2024-2025. Subsequently, it will further increase to PHP 10,000 per teacher in the following school years.
- Usage of the Allowance: Under Section 4 of HB 9682, the allowance can be utilized to purchase both tangible and intangible teaching supplies and materials. It also covers incidental expenses and supports the implementation or conduct of various learning delivery modalities.
- Tax Exemption: The allowance provided under this bill will not be subject to income tax, ensuring that teachers receive the full amount for their educational expenses.
- Funding and Implementation: The necessary funds for implementing this law will be included in the Department of Education’s budget within the annual General Appropriations Act.
- Senate Counterpart Bill: In May, the Senate approved its counterpart bill, Senate Bill 1964, also known as the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act.
The approval of House Bill 9682 is seen as a significant step towards supporting the welfare of public school teachers in the Philippines, acknowledging their essential role and the financial challenges they face in providing quality education.
