The Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Tuesday, April 22, that it is intensifying preparations to support thousands of teachers and education personnel who will serve as election workers in the upcoming May 2025 National and Local Elections.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the department’s commitment to protecting and empowering educators, recognizing their crucial role as frontline guardians of democracy.

“Our teachers are holding up the pillars of democracy,” said Angara. “In return, we are making sure their service is met with gratitude, preparation, and protection.”

Strengthening election readiness and teacher welfare

DepEd highlighted its involvement in a recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other key agencies.

This inter-agency collaboration aims to ensure a safe, fair, and peaceful electoral process, in line with President Marcos’ directive, according to DepEd.

Key MOA provisions include legal and medical assistance for teachers deputized for election duties; strengthened coordination among DepEd, COMELEC, and law enforcement; and political neutrality guidelines to prevent partisan activity.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has also committed to offering legal assistance to teachers who may face complaints while performing their election duties, DepEd said.

DepEd Election Task Force fully mobilized

To enhance institutional readiness, DepEd will activate the Election Task Force (ETF) at all levels—Central, Regional, and Schools Division Offices.

The ETF is designed as a rapid-response unit, providing real-time monitoring and incident response, according to DepEd.

The DepEd Election Command Center, headquartered in Makati City, will be fully operational from May 11 to 13, ensuring nationwide coordination and assistance.

ETF members will receive honoraria, overtime pay, or compensatory time off (CTO), in accordance with government rules and their employment status, DepEd said.

“Our ETF is built like a command center—with clear roles, dedicated personnel, and the authority to act fast when our people need help,” Angara noted.

Upholding integrity and neutrality

DepEd reiterated its strict stance on political neutrality, enforcing guidelines that prohibit electioneering and other partisan activities among its personnel.

Additionally, DepEd has conducted a special election law orientation—led by former Acting Secretary of Justice Atty. Alberto C. Agra—to raise legal awareness among education staff involved in the elections.

Call to action: Support for teachers and democracy

As election day draws near, DepEd called on the public and stakeholders to foster an environment where every vote is protected and every teacher is respected.

“This is more than an election,” said Angara. “It is a national act of trust—and our teachers deserve nothing less than our full support,” he added.