Candon City, Ilocos Sur, 7 September 2024 – The Department of Education (DepEd) honored teachers from across the country today at the National Teachers’ Month 2024 (NTM 2024) kick-off event in Candon City. The event featured various services for teachers and updates on new benefits for public school educators.

DepEd Secretary Angara expressed his gratitude to teachers for their unwavering dedication to students and the quality of education.

“Our teachers are the foundation of our nation. No progress is possible without them. Thank you for your service and commitment,” Secretary Angara stated, while highlighting the updated benefits and incentives for public school teachers.

He announced that the 2024 salary differential, as mandated by Executive Order 64 of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., will be released this September, with salary increases effective from 2024 to 2027. Teachers will also receive an annual medical allowance of up to P7,000 starting in Fiscal Year 2025.

Secretary Angara added that the teaching allowance will increase from P5,000 to P10,000 tax-free, beginning next school year, as mandated by the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act. Additionally, the Performance-Based Bonuses for 2022 and 2023 will soon be released.

“We are working closely with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to ensure the release of the 2022 and 2023 Performance-Based Bonuses,” he added.

Reaffirming the Department’s commitment to addressing teachers’ concerns, Secretary Angara acknowledged that reports have reached his office and assured that appropriate actions will be taken.

“We hear you, and in the coming days, months, and years, we will address these issues,” he said. He also mentioned that the Department is preparing guidelines under the MATATAG curriculum to reduce teachers’ workload and provide adequate rest time between classes.

Secretary Angara also extended his gratitude to the Schools Division Office of Candon, the Local Government Unit of Candon City, the Ilocos Sur Provincial Government, and DepEd partners for their support in hosting the NTM 2024 kick-off.

This year’s event, with support from DepEd partners, included free medical consultations, laboratory services, HIV and diabetes screenings, wellness massages, trade fairs by local merchants, and giveaways for teachers.

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