Public school teachers across the Philippines will receive a P5,000 teaching allowance on Monday, July 29, just in time for the opening of classes. Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced this news on Tuesday, highlighting the tax-free benefit for educators.

Tax-Free Allowance

During a visit to Mataas na Paaralang Neptali A. Gonzales in Mandaluyong City, Angara shared that the P5,000 allowance, also known as the “chalk allowance,” will be distributed without any tax deductions this year. He emphasized that this is the first time the allowance will be tax-free.

“The cash allowance will be P5,000 this year. For the first time, it’s tax-free. Next year, under the law, it will be P10,000. Every teacher will receive that,” Angara stated.

Support for Teaching Equipment

The Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary explained that this additional benefit aims to help teachers acquire necessary teaching equipment. The timing of the allowance release is designed to coincide with the start of the school year, ensuring teachers can immediately address any classroom needs.

“The chalk allowance will be released very soon, in time for the opening of classes. That’s the timing—when the classes start, teachers will get an allowance for what they need and buy everything their classroom lacks,” Angara explained.

Increased Allowances by 2025

In support of public school teachers, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act last month. This law authorizes an increase in the annual teaching allowance from P5,000 to P10,000 starting in the 2025-2026 school year. The initiative is designed to alleviate the financial burdens of purchasing teaching supplies and materials, enabling teachers to focus more on their crucial educational roles.

This move has been widely appreciated by educators, as it will significantly reduce their out-of-pocket expenses and allow them to enhance the learning environment for students.