BY: VANESSA BUGTONG
“Our future rests in your hands, this administration trusts that you will help us build the Bagong Pilipinas we aspire to achieve.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged teachers during the celebration of National Teachers’ Month last October 3.
In his speech, the president commended teachers for their dedication and sacrifices in delivering quality education to students.
“I think I’m safe in saying that not only schools will not work without teachers but the community will not function without you. You are proof that no matter what our education system faces, we will prevail. We are confident because we know our teachers are there, we will push forward despite challenges,” PBBM mentioned.
“Together, we express our gratitude and salute your dedication and unmatched sacrifices for the future of our youth and our nation,” said Martin Romualdez, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Beyond praises, there is also a call for an increase in the SRI for public school teachers.
The need for career progression, as outlined in Executive Order No. 174, Series of 2022, was emphasized.
The president directed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Education (DepEd) to review the proposed budget to ensure the SRI increase.
Last Thursday, December 12, Malacañang approved the release of Administrative Order No. 27, and the distribution began yesterday, December 15.
According to DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, “Under the leadership of PBBM, we continue to prioritize education as the foundation of Bagong Pilipinas. In Bagong Pilipinas, teachers and educators take center stage.”
More than one million DepEd personnel received 18,000 to 20,000 pesos in Service Recognition Incentive (SRI).
Regular, contractual, and casual employees from various departments, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and government-owned and controlled corporations were also included as beneficiaries.
Eligible employees include those who worked at least four months by November 30 and had not yet received any additional year-end benefits for 2024.