President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Education (DepEd) to work closely on providing a higher Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) for public school teachers this year.

In a news release on Tuesday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the government aims to increase the SRI of an estimated 1,011,800 DepEd personnel from the current P18,000 to P20,000.

Marcos ordered both agencies to explore budgetary measures to ensure that the SRI increase for DepEd personnel can be implemented while remaining mindful of fiscal responsibilities.

SRI is an annual financial incentive granted to government employees in recognition of their commitment and dedication to delivering high-quality, responsive public service.

With this, Education Secretary Sonny Angara thanked Marcos for his directive, describing it as a “morale booster” for educators.

“This initiative underscores our shared goal of empowering teachers and reinforcing their critical role in shaping the future of Filipino learners,” Angara said.

According to the PCO, more information on the implementation and timeline for the increased SRI is expected to be announced.

This, as the DBM and DepEd are already finalizing the necessary funding mechanisms for the increased SRI for public school teachers.