In a bid to uplift the teaching profession, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) assured public school teachers of continued government support during the 2024 National Teachers’ Day celebration. Addressing the challenges faced by the sector, he emphasized that empowering teachers is crucial for nation-building and ensuring quality education for Filipino students.
Speaking on October 3, 2024, in Quezon City, the President highlighted the efforts being made to provide teachers with the resources and opportunities they need. He stressed the importance of easing non-teaching tasks and offering more career advancement options to over 860,000 public school teachers across the Philippines.
Expanded Career Progression System for Public School Teachers
President Marcos underscored Executive Order No. 174, which established the Expanded Career Progression System for Public School Teachers. This system allows educators to choose between a teaching or leadership track as they seek career growth. It aims to reward dedication and hard work, providing teachers the chance to reach higher positions in either classroom instruction or administrative roles. This initiative is a response to the increasing demand for a career structure that supports professional development and encourages excellence in the education system.
The expanded career system includes the introduction of new positions such as Master Teacher IV and V, which recognize exemplary teaching performance. The policy also ensures that teachers can switch between teaching and administrative career lines, as long as they meet the necessary qualifications and competencies. This initiative is part of the government’s long-term plan to keep talented teachers in the public sector while providing them with a clear path for advancement.
Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act: A Step Towards Financial Empowerment
The President also expressed his administration’s commitment to improving the financial well-being of teachers through the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act. This law, recently signed by PBBM, increases the annual teaching allowance from P5,000 to P10,000, starting in the 2025-2026 school year. The allowance is meant to help teachers purchase necessary teaching supplies and materials without dipping into their own pockets.
The increase in the teaching allowance is in response to the rising cost of living, and the growing need for teachers to use technology in the classroom. With the shift towards blended learning, teachers often spend their own money on internet access, gadgets, and other tools necessary for modern teaching. By doubling the allowance, the government aims to ease the financial burden on educators and ensure they are equipped to deliver effective instruction.
Improving Work Conditions and Compensation
President Marcos also addressed the importance of creating a balanced and supportive work environment for teachers. Through Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 005, series of 2024, the government has mandated that teachers will receive proper compensation for any classroom teaching that exceeds six hours per day. This policy ensures that educators are fairly paid for their work and that their workload remains manageable.
Additionally, teachers will benefit from an across-the-board salary increase for government employees and a P7,000 medical allowance under Executive Order No. 64. These financial benefits reflect the administration’s recognition of the crucial role teachers play in shaping the future of the nation.
Supporting DepEd’s Efforts for Quality Education
In his address, PBBM called on DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and other government agencies to continue improving the quality of education in the country. He emphasized the need for collaboration in addressing the issues facing the education sector, particularly in providing the necessary tools and support for teachers.
The President’s commitment to improving the education system aligns with his vision of building a more resilient and empowered teaching sector. He stressed that these initiatives are just the beginning, and that more efforts will be made to ensure that teachers are fully supported in their roles.
A Long-Term Commitment to Teachers
The government’s initiatives, including the Expanded Career Progression System and the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, are part of a broader strategy to professionalize and support the teaching workforce in the Philippines. By improving compensation, reducing non-teaching tasks, and providing clear career paths, the administration hopes to foster a more motivated and dedicated group of educators.
President Marcos reiterated that these changes are vital for the country’s future, as teachers hold the responsibility of educating the next generation of Filipinos. He urged all stakeholders to continue working together to uplift the teaching profession and ensure that teachers are given the tools they need to succeed.
Video: PBBM Leads Teachers’ Day 2024 Celebration
Watch the highlights of President Marcos’ address on National Teachers’ Day, where he discusses his administration’s efforts to support teachers, including the implementation of the Expanded Career Progression System and the doubling of teaching allowances under the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act.