The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed its openness to deliberations regarding the proposal to increase the salary of public school teachers to P50,000 a month. Education Undersecretary and spokesman Michael Wesley Poa stated that DepEd is always an advocate for additional benefits for teachers.
A bill, House Bill 9920, has been filed by ACT Teachers Rep. Francisca Castro, Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Danniel Manuel, which aims to upgrade the salary of teachers from Salary Grade 11 to Salary Grade 15, or whichever is higher. The proponents of the bill argue that the current salary of teachers is insufficient to meet the family living wage of P1,119 per day or P33,570 per month.
Poa mentioned that DepEd cannot suggest the ideal salary for public school teachers as it would depend on the results of a World Bank study, which is expected to be released in a couple of weeks. The World Bank is currently requesting additional data from DepEd, which is being processed. The data from the World Bank study will be used in the deliberations in the House of Representatives.
DepEd is committed to actively participating in the Congressional deliberations for the proposed bill. The department acknowledges the importance of fair compensation for teachers, who play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation. By advocating for additional benefits and higher salaries, DepEd aims to attract and retain qualified educators who are essential in providing quality education to students.
The proposal to increase the salary of public school teachers is a significant step towards recognizing the valuable contributions of educators. It acknowledges the challenges they face in ensuring that students receive the best possible education. Adequate compensation not only improves the financial well-being of teachers but also enhances their motivation and job satisfaction, ultimately benefiting the entire education system.
In many countries, teachers are regarded as pillars of society, and their salaries reflect the importance placed on education. For example, in Finland, known for its high-quality education system, teachers are highly respected and enjoy competitive salaries. This recognition and compensation contribute to attracting top talent to the teaching profession and maintaining high standards of education.
It is crucial to contextualize the proposed increase in teacher salaries within the local context. The current salary of public school teachers in the Philippines may not be sufficient to meet the rising cost of living and provide for their families. By upgrading the salary scale, teachers can have a better quality of life and be more financially secure, allowing them to focus on their profession without the burden of financial stress.
Furthermore, increasing teacher salaries can help address the issue of teacher shortage. Many qualified individuals may hesitate to pursue a career in teaching due to the perceived lack of financial rewards. By offering competitive salaries, the teaching profession becomes more attractive and encourages talented individuals to choose education as a career path.
However, it is essential to strike a balance between increasing teacher salaries and allocating resources to other educational needs. Education budgets are often limited, and careful consideration must be given to ensure that the proposed salary increase is sustainable and does not compromise other aspects of the education system.
In conclusion, the Department of Education is open to deliberations on the proposal to increase the salary of public school teachers. DepEd recognizes the importance of fair compensation for teachers and is committed to advocating for additional benefits. The proposed increase in teacher salaries not only recognizes the valuable contributions of educators but also addresses the need for attracting and retaining qualified professionals in the teaching profession. By providing competitive salaries, the education system can ensure quality education for all students and support the overall development of the nation.
Source: The Manila Times
