Public school teachers and non-teaching personnel can now enjoy five days of wellness leave each year, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced Friday.
This benefit is separate from vacation and sick leaves and may be used for mental health care, physical wellness, or restorative breaks.
The initiative follows President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize the welfare and mental health of Filipinos, including education workers.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted:
“Kinikilala natin na ang kanilang kalusugan, lalo na ang mental health, ay mahalaga sa patuloy nilang paglilingkod sa ating mga mag-aaral.”
The leave covers all DepEd personnel, including permanent, temporary, contractual, substitute, and Job Order employees, under Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 01, s. 2026.
Requests must be filed at least five days in advance, except in emergencies, and leaves can be taken consecutively for up to three days or spread throughout the year. Unused days cannot be carried over or converted to cash.
Angara described the policy as a gift to DepEd employees, reinforcing their well-being as they continue serving learners across the country.