President Marcos Jr. Approves One-Time Service Recognition Incentive for Government Employees

December 13, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Administrative Order No. 27, authorizing the grant of a one-time Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) of up to ₱20,000 for government employees across various branches and levels of government for fiscal year 2024. The directive acknowledges the significant contributions of government personnel in achieving the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 and the administration's 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda.

Coverage and Conditions

The SRI is aimed at rewarding civilian, military, and uniformed personnel in national government agencies (NGAs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs), and other eligible institutions. Employees must meet the following criteria to qualify:

  • Active service as of November 30, 2024;
  • At least four months of satisfactory service within the year;
  • Those with less than four months of service will receive a pro-rated amount based on their length of service.

Exclusions apply to consultants, job-order workers, apprentices, and individuals with no employer-employee relationship.

Funding and Allocation

The funding for the SRI will be sourced as follows:

  • NGAs and SUCs: From the available personnel services (PS) allotments under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
  • GOCCs: Through their corporate operating budgets (COBs) for 2024.
  • Local Government Units (LGUs): Based on their financial capacity and subject to the limitations of the Local Government Code.

If the funding source is insufficient, agencies and LGUs are permitted to adjust the SRI amount to ensure uniformity among qualified employees.

Special Guidelines for Other Agencies

Employees in the Legislative and Judicial branches, as well as constitutional offices with fiscal autonomy, may also receive the SRI upon approval by their respective heads. Similarly, employees in local water districts and agencies exempted from the coverage of RA No. 6758 may receive SRIs based on available funds.

Disbursement Schedule

The SRI will be disbursed no earlier than December 15, 2024, ensuring timely recognition during the holiday season.

Acknowledging Government Employees' Dedication

This initiative underscores the administration’s appreciation for government employees’ unwavering commitment and service. "This recognition is a testament to the crucial role played by our public servants in ensuring the seamless delivery of government programs and services," President Marcos Jr. emphasized.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is tasked with issuing supplemental guidelines to facilitate the implementation of AO 27.

This measure follows the tradition of previous administrative orders, reflecting the government's consistent effort to provide incentives and maintain the morale of its workforce.