Public school teachers in the Philippines will benefit from increased allowances starting June 2025, following a government decision to improve the compensation and working conditions of educators.
This development addresses the rising cost of living and longstanding calls from teachers’ unions and advocacy groups to enhance the support given to those in the education sector.
The increase in teacher allowances is part of a broader initiative by the government to acknowledge the crucial role of teachers and provide them with better financial tools to carry out their duties.
Breakdown of the 2025 Allowance Increase for Public School Teachers
The revised allowances, effective June 2025, show a substantial rise in several key support areas. Below is a detailed comparison table of the old and new rates:
| Allowance Type | Previous Rate (2024) | New Rate (June 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Chalk Allowance | PHP 5,000/year | PHP 7,500/year |
| Clothing Allowance | PHP 6,000/year | PHP 7,000/year |
| Special Hardship Allowance | 15%–25% of salary | 25%–30% of salary |
| Transportation Allowance | PHP 1,000/month | PHP 1,500/month |
| Teaching Supplies Allowance | PHP 5,000/year | PHP 8,000/year |
These new rates are not merely cost-of-living adjustments—they represent a shift in how the government values its educators and the conditions in which they work.
Why These Increases Are Crucial for Teachers
For years, public school teachers in the Philippines have had to dip into their personal savings to fund classroom supplies and meet basic teaching needs.
The increase in chalk and teaching supplies allowances helps reduce that burden.
The Special Hardship Allowance, now raised to 30% in some cases, supports teachers assigned to remote or challenging areas, where access and transportation are difficult.
Similarly, the higher transportation allowance ensures that teachers are not financially strained when commuting to schools, especially in regions lacking robust public transit infrastructure.
These changes signal a growing awareness of the economic and professional challenges faced by teachers and aim to empower them to perform their duties more effectively.
Voices from the Ground: Teacher Reactions
Many educators and advocacy groups have expressed mixed yet hopeful reactions to the announcement.
Organizations like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) welcome the increased support but continue to push for systemic reforms—including base salary upgrades and performance-based incentives.
Luzviminda Castro, a Grade 5 teacher in Bicol, shared her perspective:
“Every peso counts, especially when you’re feeding your own family and trying to create a learning environment for thirty kids. The new allowances help, but we hope it doesn’t stop here.”
What’s Next: Ongoing Reforms and Future Proposals
While the June 2025 updates are a step forward, the education sector is eyeing larger reforms. A bill currently being reviewed in the House of Representatives proposes raising the entry-level salary of public school teachers from PHP 27,000 to PHP 35,000 by 2026.
In addition, the Department of Education (DepEd) has pledged to oversee the implementation and timely distribution of these new allowances. Monitoring mechanisms are also being established to ensure that funds reach the intended recipients without delay.
The government emphasizes that these reforms aim to boost teacher morale, increase retention, and ultimately improve the quality of education for students nationwide.
The 2025 allowance increase for public school teachers in the Philippines is a much-needed and timely step toward recognizing the indispensable work of educators.
While challenges remain, this development brings optimism for deeper reforms ahead that support both teachers and the country’s educational future.
FAQs
When will the new teacher allowances take effect in the Philippines?
The increased allowances for public school teachers will take effect starting June 2025.
What is the new Chalk Allowance for 2025?
The Chalk Allowance has been increased from PHP 5,000 to PHP 7,500 per year.
Is there a proposed salary increase for public school teachers?
Yes, a bill is under review proposing an increase in the entry-level salary of teachers from PHP 27,000 to PHP 35,000 by 2026.