(Rio Deluvio/MANILA BULLETIN)

Batangas 2nd district Rep. Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” Luistro envisions the newly-signed “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act" as a platform to uplift public school teachers from dire financial straits.

In a statement, Luistro expressed her elation over the law that she labelled a “landmark legislation” in terms of education reform and teachers’ welfare.

"This law is a significant milestone in our continuous efforts to support and uplift our dedicated public school teachers,” she said.

Signed by President Marcos on Monday, June 3, Republic Act (RA) No. 11997 shall grant all public school teachers with cash allowance for the purchase of tangible or intangible teaching supplies and materials, the payment of incidental expenses, and the implementation or conduct of various learning delivery modalities. 

The total allowance shall amount to P7,500 per teacher for the school year 2024 to 2025. By the following school year and subsequent years, the allowance will be P10,000.

The law exempts the teaching supplies allowance from income tax.

According to Luistro, this legislation is consistent with the policy guidelines and learning delivery methods endorsed and applied by the Department of Education (DepEd).

“By providing them with the necessary resources and financial support, we are investing in the future of our children and the overall improvement of our education system,” the lawmaker explained.

Luistro, a longtime education advocate, says this new law is “a promising step forward” in improving the teaching profession and ensuring that teachers receive the recognition and support they deserve.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all my colleagues in Congress, the Department of Education, and the various stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to make this legislation a reality,” she added. 

“Together, we are building a stronger foundation for our nation's future through quality education”.