DepEd rolls out new policies to support teachers

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday said public school teachers are receiving higher allowances, clearer career paths, and reduced paperwork under new reforms aimed at improving working conditions.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the policy changes respond to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize teachers’ welfare.

Under the reforms, teachers’ annual medical allowance increased from P500 to P7,000, while teaching allowances rose from P3,500 to P10,000. The department also introduced an Expanded Career Progression system, allowing teachers to earn promotions and salary increases based on merit without leaving the classroom. About 16,423 teachers have already been promoted, with more than 40,000 awaiting approval from the Department of Budget and Management.

The department also reduced paperwork requirements, cutting school forms and reports from 174 to 75. New administrative and support positions were created to handle non-teaching duties, allowing teachers more time to focus on classroom activities.

Overload and overtime teaching will now have clearer compensation, while teachers may receive up to 30 vacation service credits per year, double the previous limit. Teachers in difficult or remote areas will receive a fixed hardship allowance of 25 percent of their salary.

DepEd also adopted flexible work arrangements during emergencies and inclusive hiring policies for qualified applicants.

For private school teachers, Angara said the Teacher Salary Subsidy will increase from P18,000 to P24,000.