THE Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has welcomed President Marcos Jr.’s directive to the Department of Budget and Management and Education Department to explore ways to increase the Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) for public school teachers for the fiscal year 2024.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) has proposed to raise the annual SRI of DepEd employees from P18,000 to P20,000.
Further announcements on the implementation and timeline for the increased SRI are expected once the funding mechanisms are finalized.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara welcomed the order, describing it as a “morale booster” for teachers.
“This initiative underscores our shared goal of empowering teachers and reinforcing their critical role in shaping the future of Filipino learners,” Angara said.
The SRI is an annual financial incentive given to government employees to acknowledge their commitment and dedication to providing quality and responsive public service.
The TDC also remains hopeful for a more substantial salary increase for teachers and education workers.
“Ensuring that our teachers receive just compensation reflective of their pivotal role in nation-building will further strengthen their commitment and ability to deliver quality education. We anticipate concrete actions that will uplift the dignity of the teaching profession and secure a brighter future for our learners and the nation in general,” TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas said.
The TDC is pushing for a P15,000 across-the-board salary increase for teachers and education workers, along with other benefits.
THANKS, BBM
The DepEd thanked Marcos for signing the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which aims to embed mental health services to schools.
“Our sincerest thanks go to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. for keeping education at the top of his administration’s agenda. His marching order to uplift our teachers and learners has been our mission at the Department. As he signs the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, the DepEd family can now look forward to our communities supported and shepherded by qualified mental health professionals,” Angara said.
“Globally, mental health concerns are escalating. In the Philippines, the statistics are alarming – 17% of our young people have contemplated taking their lives yet less than 1% sought professional help,” Marcos said in signing the law.
Marcos said the law will encourage youths to seek professional help available at schools.
Under RA 12080, public and private schools are mandated to come up with comprehensive mental health programs and services for students as well as for out-of-school children in special cases to promote mental health awareness, address mental health concerns, and enhance suicide prevention efforts in schools.
These services include screening, evaluation, and monitoring of students’ mental well-being, as well as mental health first aid, crisis response, and referral systems.
The DepEd is also tasked to ensure the establishment of Care Centers, formerly guidance and counseling offices, in all public schools and ensure their existence and maintenance in private schools.
