Alsey
The Philippine government has officially announced a monthly allowance hike for public school teachers, set to take effect from July 2025.
This move comes as part of the administration’s broader strategy to improve the welfare of public sector employees, especially those in the education sector, who continue to play a crucial role in nation-building despite financial challenges and rising inflation.
This allowance increase is a significant development under the 2025 General Appropriations Act and is expected to positively impact hundreds of thousands of teaching professionals across the country.
The increase aims to provide financial relief and support teachers in delivering quality education nationwide.
What Is the 2025 Teacher Allowance Hike?
Under the new policy, public school teachers employed by the Department of Education (DepEd) will receive an increased monthly chalk or teaching allowance and other related subsidies.
The hike is part of the continuing commitment to progressively raise teacher benefits, as promised by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.
Previously, public school teachers received a Teaching Supplies Allowance (TSA) of ₱5,000 per year. Beginning July 2025, this will increase to ₱10,000 annually, effectively doubling the support.
Additionally, a Connectivity Allowance of up to ₱1,000 per month has been proposed to address the growing need for internet-based teaching resources in blended learning environments.
Breakdown of the New Allowance Structure
Below is a table summarizing the proposed allowance breakdown starting July 2025:
| Allowance Type | Previous Rate | New Rate (Effective July 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Supplies Allowance | ₱5,000 per year | ₱10,000 per year |
| Connectivity Allowance | ₱0 | ₱1,000 per month |
| Annual Clothing Allowance | ₱6,000 | ₱6,000 (unchanged) |
| Mid-Year Bonus | Equivalent to 1 month | No change |
The new monthly connectivity subsidy is designed to help teachers cover internet costs and digital tool expenses, especially important in rural and remote learning contexts.
Who Qualifies for the Allowance Increase?
The allowance hike is applicable to all eligible DepEd-employed public school teachers, including those in:
- Kindergarten, elementary, and high school levels
- Permanent, contractual, and locally-funded teaching positions
- Remote or geographically isolated areas
To qualify, teachers must:
- Be officially employed by the Department of Education as of June 30, 2025
- Hold active teaching assignments or related administrative posts
- Have no unresolved administrative cases
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and DepEd will release official guidelines in the coming weeks, clarifying eligibility documentation and fund release mechanisms.
Payment Schedule and Implementation Timeline
According to initial government statements, implementation of the new allowance structure will commence in July 2025 and will follow a structured payment cycle:
| Period | Allowance Type | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| July 2025 | First disbursement of TSA | July 15, 2025 |
| Monthly (ongoing) | Connectivity Allowance | Every 5th of the month |
| 2nd Quarter FY | Clothing Allowance | May 2025 (no change) |
| Mid-Year | Bonus | June 2025 (no change) |
DepEd has assured that disbursements will be automatically credited through the teachers’ Payroll Service Account (PSA) or Land Bank payroll accounts.
Why This Matters for Teachers
This benefit enhancement comes amid rising concerns over cost of living, resource shortages in public schools, and inadequate support for remote learning.
With basic necessities and utility costs continuously increasing, these additional subsidies will improve morale, reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and allow teachers to better support student learning.
Furthermore, it’s a signal of stronger government investment in education, showing appreciation for the teaching workforce.
Government Response and Public Reception
Education groups such as the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) welcomed the move but urged the government to institutionalize further pay raises and make the allowances tax-exempt.
While the hike is seen as a good start, they emphasize the need for a long-term wage reform plan.
In response, DepEd stated it is working closely with Congress and DBM to explore future salary standardization updates and wider non-wage benefits to uplift the education sector.
How to Claim or Verify Allowance Updates
Public school teachers are not required to submit individual claims. Disbursement will be automatic through the following process:
- DepEd Central Office will release guidelines and disbursement schedules to regional and division offices.
- Regional offices will verify employment records to confirm eligibility.
- Funds will be credited through Land Bank payroll accounts or official school-based distribution channels.
Teachers are encouraged to regularly check their DepEd emails and regional bulletins for official memos.
Future Outlook and Legislative Support
Several bills are pending in the Philippine Congress that aim to institutionalize these allowances and even increase the entry-level salary of public teachers to ₱40,000. If passed, these changes could ensure long-term economic protection for educators.
Additionally, the Department of Education’s 2026 budget proposal includes provisions for enhanced healthcare, scholarship, and housing assistance for teachers.
Starting July 2025, public school teachers in the Philippines will receive increased financial support through a ₱10,000 yearly Teaching Supplies Allowance and a ₱1,000 monthly Connectivity Allowance.
This positive development highlights the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of educators.
Teachers are encouraged to monitor official announcements and ensure their payroll information is updated to avoid delays in disbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the allowance increase taxable?
As of June 2025, the Teaching Supplies Allowance is not subject to tax, while details on the Connectivity Allowance taxation are pending clarification from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Q2: Will newly hired teachers after July 2025 also be eligible?
Yes, newly appointed teachers after July 2025 will receive prorated allowances based on their date of employment, provided they meet DepEd employment guidelines.
Q3: What happens if I don’t receive my allowance on time?
Teachers experiencing delays should contact their school head or regional DepEd office. It’s important to ensure all payroll and employment records are up to date.