A new legislative measure submitted to the Senate seeks to grant a standard ₱10,000 monthly pay rise to all public elementary and secondary school educators across the country.
Introduced by Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito, Senate Bill No. 335—officially named the “Dagdag Suweldo Para sa mga Guro” Act—aims to apply the fixed increase to the base earnings of public educators regardless of their tenure or years of service.
Ejercito highlighted that the legislation is designed to recognize the vital contribution of educators in nurturing young Filipinos while helping them manage rising living costs.
“Being a teacher is not easy. They bear a heavy responsibility, yet often make significant sacrifices to fulfill their duties. That is why it is time for us to better show our appreciation for them through a salary increase,” Ejercito noted.
“Every day, our teachers do more than just teach. They prepare lessons, check papers, compile reports, and above all, they care for and guide our students. We see their hard work and sacrifices,” he further said.
The lawmaker explained that raising compensation would help improve the daily lives of teachers while encouraging qualified educators to remain in public service.
He stressed that supporting the financial stability of school personnel serves as a direct investment in the country’s educational framework, adding that educators should feel that their efforts are genuinely recognized by the government.
“We cannot achieve quality education if the people on its front lines continue to struggle with their livelihood,” he said.
“To our teachers, we know that your sacrifices cannot be measured by any monetary value. But we want to show you that we have not forgotten you,” he further said.