December 16, 2024 - The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to make December 2024 a memorable month for its employees as it rolls out the Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) amounting to Php 20,000 for teaching and non-teaching personnel. This marks the first time in the agency’s history that staff will receive the maximum grant allowed under the program, reinforcing DepEd’s commitment to acknowledging the dedication and hard work of its workforce.
What is the SRI?
The Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) is a cash bonus granted by the Philippine government to reward the service and contributions of public sector employees. Mandated under Administrative Order No. 37, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the SRI aims to recognize the tireless efforts of government workers in ensuring the efficient delivery of public services, especially in education, which remains a cornerstone of national development.
Historical Context: A First for DepEd
While government employees have received SRIs in the past, this is the first time that DepEd personnel will enjoy the maximum amount of Php 20,000, a move that highlights the agency’s prioritization of its workforce’s welfare. In previous years, the SRI granted to DepEd employees ranged between Php 5,000 and Php 10,000, subject to budgetary constraints and approval from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The unprecedented increase for 2024 comes after persistent calls from educators and support staff for more substantial recognition of their contributions. DepEd’s workforce, comprising over 900,000 teaching and non-teaching personnel, has faced numerous challenges in recent years, from adapting to blended learning during the COVID-19 pandemic to addressing ongoing issues of classroom shortages and resource constraints.
Key Details of the 2024 SRI Release
Eligibility: The SRI will be granted to all regular, contractual, and casual teaching and non-teaching staff who are still in service as of November 30, 2024.
Amount: Php 20,000 per employee, the highest allowable amount under the program.
Release Date: The distribution of the SRI will begin on December 20, 2024, ensuring that employees receive their incentives before the holiday season.
Source of Funds: The grant will be funded through DepEd’s savings and additional allocations from the national budget, as authorized by the DBM.
A Boost for Morale and Financial Relief
The announcement of the Php 20,000 SRI has been met with widespread appreciation across the education sector. For many DepEd personnel, the incentive comes as a significant financial relief, particularly during the holiday season when expenses typically increase.
“This is a welcome recognition of the hard work we’ve put in over the year,” shared a public school teacher from Quezon City. “It’s not just about the amount; it’s about feeling valued for the work we do.”
Non-teaching staff, such as administrative officers and janitors, also expressed gratitude, emphasizing that their contributions to the smooth operation of schools are often overlooked.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the SRI’s historic amount has been lauded, some challenges remain. Educators have long called for a more permanent solution to financial struggles through salary increases, rather than relying on one-time bonuses. The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) reiterated that while the incentive is appreciated, the government must also address systemic issues, such as low base pay for entry-level teachers and the lack of sufficient teaching resources.
Moving Forward
DepEd’s decision to grant the maximum allowable SRI is a significant step in recognizing the contributions of its employees. As the education sector continues to evolve, investments in personnel welfare will remain crucial for achieving quality education for all Filipinos.
For DepEd personnel, December 20, 2024, is not just a payday but a celebration of their dedication and perseverance. The Php 20,000 SRI serves as a timely acknowledgment of their invaluable role in shaping the nation’s future.