June 03, 2024 - In a welcome development for the education sector, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 11997, also known as the "Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act," into law on June 3, 2024. This act aims to uplift the lives of public school teachers by providing them with annual allowances to ease the financial burden of purchasing teaching supplies.
The Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act signifies a significant increase in teacher support. Previously, public school teachers received a minimal allowance, starting from P100 in 1988 and gradually rising to P5,000 by 2021. This new law represents a major leap forward.
Under the new legislation, public school teachers will receive an initial allowance of P5,000 for the upcoming school year 2024-2025. This amount will then double to P10,000 starting in school year 2025-2026 and every year thereafter. Senator Sonny Angara, one of the bill's principal authors, emphasized that this allowance will be exempt from income tax, ensuring that teachers receive the full benefit.
President Marcos lauded the law's passage, highlighting its role in his administration's "Matatag" education program. By reducing teachers' financial stress, the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act empowers them to concentrate on their core responsibility of educating students. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to a stronger and more effective education system in the Philippines.