Public school teachers to receive P7,000 medical allowance starting 2025

Significant Boost in Healthcare Benefits for Public School Teachers Starting 2025

Public school teachers in the Philippines are set to receive expanded healthcare benefits with the introduction of a Php 7,000 medical allowance for government employees beginning in fiscal year 2025. This marks a substantial increase from the Php 500 medical examination allowance provided in 2020, demonstrating a significant enhancement in support for teachers’ health and well-being.

Executive Order No. 64, s. 2024: A Game Changer

Under Executive Order No. 64, s. 2024, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the government will provide an annual medical allowance of up to Php 7,000 to eligible government civilian personnel, including public school teachers. This allowance is designed to subsidize the cost of health maintenance organization (HMO)-type benefits.

“If we pool that together, we can secure comprehensive insurance coverage for our teachers,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara. This adjustment represents a 1,300% increase from the Php 500 medical allowance granted in 2020, which was primarily intended to cover the cost of eligible diagnostic tests, as outlined in Department Order No. 28, s. 2020.

Additional Financial Support for Educators

In addition to the medical allowance, public school teachers will also receive a Php 5,000 tax-free teaching allowance for the School Year 2024-2025. Thanks to the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act (Republic Act 11997), co-authored by Secretary Angara during his tenure in the Senate, this allowance will increase to Php 10,000 starting in School Year 2025-2026 and beyond. This increment is expected to provide further financial relief and support to educators as they carry out their crucial roles.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Moreover, the Department of Education has reminded its teaching and non-teaching personnel that they are eligible to file claims under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)-issued Personal Accident Insurance (GPAI) policy. This policy provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment up to Php 100,000 and medical reimbursement up to Php 30,000 for injuries. This comprehensive coverage ensures that educators and staff have access to necessary financial support in the event of accidents or injuries.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of these enhanced benefits underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of public school teachers. By significantly increasing the medical allowance and providing additional financial support through teaching allowances and comprehensive insurance coverage, the government aims to create a more supportive and sustainable environment for educators. These measures are expected to have a positive impact on the overall quality of education, as healthier and more financially secure teachers can better focus on their mission to educate the nation’s youth.

The expanded healthcare benefits and additional allowances for public school teachers starting in fiscal year 2025 reflect a significant step forward in recognizing and supporting the invaluable contributions of educators. This comprehensive approach to teacher welfare is poised to enhance the quality of education in the Philippines, providing a brighter future for both teachers and students alike.

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