Trabaho applauds enhanced support for teachers serving in 2025 elections
TRABAHO Partylist expressed strong support for the Department of Education’s (DepEd) recent initiatives aimed at bolstering the welfare of public school teachers who will serve as poll workers in the upcoming May 12, 2025 national and local elections.
DepEd, in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police, has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the rights and welfare of teachers during the electoral process.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized that teachers are “holding up the pillars of democracy,” and thus deserve comprehensive support, including real-time monitoring, legal and medical assistance, and clear guidelines to maintain political neutrality.
In response, Trabaho spokesperson Atty. Mitchell-David L. Espiritu lauded these measures, highlighting the party’s longstanding advocacy for improved compensation and working conditions for educators. He noted that the party supports the directive to increase the Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) for an estimated 1,011,800 DepEd personnel from the current ₱18,000 to ₱20,000, as ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Furthermore, the COMELEC announced enhancements to the benefits for teachers serving as electoral board members. These include increased honoraria: Chairpersons will receive ₱12,000, Poll Clerks ₱11,000, Third Members ₱10,000, and Support Staff ₱8,000—reflecting a ₱2,000 increase across all positions compared to the 2022 elections. Additionally, service credits for teachers will be doubled from 5 to 10 days, acknowledging their extended working hours and added responsibilities.
The spokesperson emphasized that these developments align with Trabaho’s mission to uplift the Filipino workforce. “Our educators are essential in shaping the future of our nation. Ensuring their well-being, especially during critical democratic processes like elections, is paramount,” he stated.
As the 2025 elections approach, Trabaho (no. 106 in the ballot) continues to advocate for policies that prioritize the welfare of teachers and workers, aiming to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the labor force.
