Sara Duterte Promises 30-Straight Rest Days for Teachers: A Milestone for Philippine Education
In a groundbreaking announcement, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte has promised public school teachers 30-straight rest days during the school break for the academic year 2023-2024. This news comes as a significant relief for educators who have long been burdened with administrative tasks and volunteer activities even during their supposed breaks.
Sara Duterte’s Announcement: 30-Straight Rest Days for Teachers
During the kick-off ceremony for the National Teachers’ Month in Tagbilaran, Bohol, Duterte revealed that a memorandum would soon be released to formalize this commitment. “We made sure that in this year’s school calendar, teachers will have 30 straight days of rest during the break without any DepEd activity that requires volunteer work,” she said.
Additional Benefits Alongside 30-Straight Rest Days for Teachers
Emphasizing the important role of teachers in the country, Duterte also announced plans to increase the benefits received by educators. “With the vetted guidelines by both the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Civil Service Commission, we are requesting a higher allocation for teaching overload pay,” she stated.
Administrative Support to Complement 30-Straight Rest Days for Teachers
The Department of Education (DepEd) is also collaborating closely with the DBM to approve the hiring of 3,500 administrative officers and 1,500 project development officers. This move aims to relieve teachers of administrative responsibilities, allowing them to focus more on the educational needs of their students.
Financial Assistance for Teachers Enjoying 30-Straight Rest Days
DepEd is in the final stages of signing a memorandum of agreement with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to provide an exclusive lane for teachers in all branches and a designated team to cater only to teachers’ concerns. “Many of our school teachers are overly stressed about their financial insecurities. We are looking to address your concerns over accrued interests or arrears of your loans,” Duterte added.
Legal Aid and Promotions for Teachers with 30-Straight Rest Days
Moreover, DepEd is about to launch a website that will offer free legal aid for teachers concerning their loan contracts. On the promotion of teachers, Duterte guaranteed an objective system. “We are now developing an automated system for an objective selection in the hiring and promotion of teachers,” she said.
Conclusion
The announcement by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte marks a significant milestone for teachers and the education system in the Philippines. With these changes, teachers can look forward to a more balanced work-life environment and better support from the government.
