In an unprecedented move that marks a significant milestone for educators across the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is poised to sign a transformative bill into law. This bill, known as the “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act,” will see the teaching supplies allowance—often referred to as the “chalk allowance”—increase from PHP 5,000 to PHP 10,000, starting from the School Year (SY) 2025-2026.
The announcement came through an invitation from the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office to ACT Teachers party-list Representative France Castro, signaling a ceremonial signing at the Malacañan Palace on June 3, 2024. This act of legislation is not just a formality but a culmination of years of advocacy and struggle by the teaching community.
The Journey of the ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act’
The ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act’ has been a long time coming. Initially filed by the ACT Teachers Party-list in 2011, it has been a persistent presence in legislative discussions, reflecting the unwavering commitment of educators to secure better support for their profession. The need for such a law was palpable, with teachers often reaching into their own pockets to cover the costs of essential classroom supplies—a financial burden that the previous allowance could not alleviate.
The recent measure, championed by the same party-list, was passed in the House of Representatives in December 2023, proposing an incremental increase to PHP 7,500 for SY 2024-2025 and then to PHP 10,000 for the subsequent years. Despite a lower provision of PHP 5,000 for SY 2024-2025 in the reconciled bill from the Bicameral Conference Committee, the final version set to be signed into law reflects the higher amount long advocated for by teachers.
The Impact on the Teaching Community
The increase in the teaching supplies allowance is more than just a financial boost; it’s a recognition of the invaluable role that teachers play in shaping the future of the nation. For years, educators have shouldered the cost of teaching aids and classroom repairs, all for the benefit of their students. This law stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the relentless efforts of groups like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines and the ACT Teachers Party-list.
Yet, the fight for fair compensation continues. The ACT has reiterated its call for a salary increase, advocating for a PHP 50,000 entry-level salary for teachers, a PHP 33,000 salary for salary grade 1 employees, SG16 for Instructor 1 positions in state universities and colleges, and a PHP 33,000 national minimum wage for all workers.
Looking Ahead
As the nation awaits the ceremonial signing, there is a palpable sense of optimism among educators. This legislative victory is a step towards acknowledging the dedication and hard work of teachers, and it sets a precedent for future reforms in the education sector. The ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act’ is more than a law; it’s a beacon of hope for a brighter, more supportive environment for the educators of the Philippines.