In a move to prioritize the well-being of public school teachers, the government has announced a substantial increase in healthcare benefits, with teachers set to receive a Php 7,000 medical allowance starting in fiscal year 2025. This significant rise from the previously provided Php 500 medical examination allowance in 2020 reflects a notable enhancement in supporting teachers’ health needs.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order No. 64, s. 2024, paving the way for an annual medical allowance of up to Php 7,000 for eligible government civilian personnel, including public school teachers. This allowance aims to assist in covering costs associated with health maintenance organization (HMO)-type benefits.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized, “If we pool that together, we can secure comprehensive insurance coverage for our teachers.” This adjustment signifies a remarkable 1,300% increase from the Php 500 medical allowance allocated in 2020, initially designated for eligible diagnostic tests under Department Order No. 28, s. 2020.
Alongside the medical allowance, public school teachers will also benefit from a Php 5,000 tax-free teaching allowance for School Year 2024-2025. This allowance, in accordance with the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act (Republic Act 11997), co-authored by Secretary Angara, is set to double to Php 10,000 starting in School Year 2025-2026 and beyond.
Furthermore, the Department of Education reminds its teaching and non-teaching staff that they are entitled to claim benefits under the Personal Accident Insurance (GPAI) policy issued by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). The policy provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment up to Php 100,000 and medical reimbursement up to Php 30,000 for injuries.
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