Teachers who will serve as members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs) during the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) have reason to smile. On May 16, 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) request to increase the honoraria for poll workers by ₱1,000.
This approval is a big win for our hardworking teachers and other poll workers who play a key role in ensuring fair and honest elections.
Why Was the ₱1,000 Pay Increase for BEIs Approved?
The Comelec said that the extra ₱1,000 for each BEI is needed because of the heavier responsibilities that come with serving during elections. Poll workers often have to work long hours under pressure, and with the rising cost of living, a raise was needed.
According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Comelec had already been given ₱26.55 billion for the 2025 elections. However, this didn’t fully cover the updated honoraria and operational needs, so Comelec requested an additional ₱758,459,000 from the Contingent Fund.
President Marcos agreed with the recommendation and approved the request.
Who Will Benefit from the Honoraria Increase?
This ₱1,000 pay increase for BEIs applies to teachers and other government employees serving in the following roles:
- Electoral Board Chairman: From ₱12,000 to ₱13,000
- Electoral Board Poll Clerk: From ₱10,000 to ₱11,000
- Third Member: From ₱9,000 to ₱10,000
- Support Staff and Supervisors: Also receive a ₱1,000 increase
In total, 758,549 poll workers for the 2025 NLE will benefit from this change.
Breakdown of the Honoraria Budget
Here is how the ₱758 million additional fund will be used:
| Category | Previous Rate | New Rate | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chairman of the Electoral Board | ₱12,000 | ₱13,000 | ₱1,000 |
| Poll Clerk | ₱10,000 | ₱11,000 | ₱1,000 |
| Third Member | ₱9,000 | ₱10,000 | ₱1,000 |
| Supervisors & Support Staff | ₱8,000–₱11,000 | ₱9,000–₱12,000 | ₱1,000 each |
The total amount for the increase is broken down as follows:
- Per Diem / Honoraria: ₱5.13 billion
- Travel Allowance: ₱1.47 billion
- Meal and Communication Allowances: Over ₱800 million combined
Why This Matters
Every election, our teachers and support staff go above and beyond. They handle ballots, assist voters, and protect the integrity of the vote. By increasing their pay, the government shows appreciation for their service and also encourages more people to volunteer for these roles.
Let’s be honest — ₱1,000 might not seem like much to some, but for many poll workers, it helps cover food, transportation, and other personal costs. In a time when prices are rising, even a small increase can make a real difference.
Funding Source and Government Support
The Contingent Fund, part of the 2024 General Appropriations Act (RA No. 11975), had enough available money — around ₱3.91 billion as of May 13, 2025 — to cover Comelec’s request. The DBM confirmed that this funding is allowed under current rules and would not affect other urgent national projects.
Personal Thoughts as a Filipino Voter
I remember my teacher friends coming home exhausted after serving in past elections. They would tell me about starting at dawn, staying in schools until late at night, and dealing with everything from confused voters to ballot counting.
Seeing them finally get a little more for their service feels right. It’s not just about the money — it’s about recognizing their hard work.
What Happens Next?
This increase applies only to the 2025 elections scheduled for May 12 and December 1, 2025. But there are talks that Comelec might ask for more adjustments in the future, especially for SK and barangay elections.
Comelec still needs to submit final numbers for SKBE (Sangguniang Kabataan and Barangay Elections) poll workers. Their pay hike request will be reviewed separately.
FAQs
Who approved the ₱1,000 pay increase for BEIs?
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved it based on the recommendation of the Department of Budget and Management and Comelec.
When will the pay increase take effect?
The increase will apply during the 2025 National and Local Elections on May 12 and December 1, 2025.
How many poll workers will benefit?
Around 758,549 poll workers will receive the increased honoraria.
What was the total amount approved for this increase?
₱758,459,000 was approved for the pay increase, taken from the 2024 Contingent Fund.
Why did Comelec request more funds?
Comelec needed additional funds to match the growing responsibilities of poll workers and to adjust for inflation and longer working hours.
The ₱1,000 pay increase for BEIs in the 2025 elections is more than just a budget decision — it’s a show of support for the people who make democracy work. Teachers and poll workers deserve respect and fair compensation. While this is only a small step, it’s a positive one. Let’s continue to support measures that reward public service and make our elections more reliable and fair.
