House Approves Progressive Career Bill for Filipino Teachers
In a landmark move, the Philippine House of Representatives has passed the substitute bill for the Teacher Career Progression Act on second reading, signaling a major overhaul in the career progression of public school teachers. The bill, championed by Pasig City Representative Roman Romulo, aims to streamline career paths and ensure merit-based promotions and salary increases for educators.
Under the proposed legislation, two distinct career trajectories will be established: one focused on classroom teaching and the other on school administration. This bifurcation is designed to cater to the individual passions and strengths of teachers, allowing them to excel and progress in their chosen domain without being forced into administrative roles.
The bill also proposes the creation of five new higher positions, each with its own set of remunerations, to further incentivize excellence in teaching. “Teachers who are truly passionate about teaching can now remain in the classroom and still earn an income comparable to that of a school head,” explained Rep. Romulo.
Meritocracy and competence are at the heart of the bill’s promotion strategy, a shift from the current subjective standards. “We want to provide our teachers with a clear and fair track for advancement, ensuring promotions are based on merit,” Romulo emphasized.
For head teachers, the bill offers a choice to continue on their existing career path or opt for one of the new routes. Salary increases will be determined by either an upgrade in salary grade or in accordance with the Salary Standardization Law.
The bill has garnered widespread support from various members of the House panel, who recognize the urgent need to address the challenges faced by educators and to promote their professional development.
After nearly a year since its initial approval by the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture, the unnumbered substitute bill was greenlit by the appropriations committee on February 13, marking a significant step towards empowering Filipino teachers and enhancing the nation’s education system.