A teachers' group on Thursday, Jan. 30, urged political candidates to make the proposed P15,000 salary increase for educators a key issue in the upcoming elections.

The Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC), in a statement, highlighted that the pay hike is crucial not only for addressing the financial challenges faced by teachers but also for enhancing the overall quality of education in the country.

“We challenge all candidates to make a clear commitment to support the P15,000 across-the-board increase for teachers. This must be a non-negotiable part of their platform,” TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas said.

With educators grappling with rising living costs, TDC emphasized the need for concrete action from lawmakers to ensure fair compensation for teachers.

“Our teachers' salaries have remained stagnant while inflation continues to rise, making it difficult for them to sustain their families and perform their duties effectively," Basas added.

Make pay hike a priority

TDC is urging candidates in the upcoming elections to prioritize the proposed P15,000 across-the-board salary hike for public school teachers, emphasizing that true education reform must include improved compensation for educators.

The bill proposing the salary increase is currently under review in the Senate, and TDC is urging lawmakers to fast-track its passage.

Basas highlighted that although the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) has conducted a thorough review of the education system, it has yet to present a clear plan for enhancing teachers' salaries and benefits.

While the work of EDCOM 2 is crucial in identifying the issues within the education system, Basas noted how unfortunate it was that no clear plan has been offered regarding the salaries and benefits of teachers.

Basas further emphasized that the upcoming elections should provide an opportunity for educators and education advocates to urge candidates, especially those running for legislative positions, to take a strong stance on the salary increase.

TDC pointed out that although past administrations have implemented modest salary increases, these have been inadequate in addressing the mounting economic challenges faced by public school teachers. The group also argued that a significant pay raise is essential to boost the morale of educators and enhance the quality of education in the country.

Go beyond token increases

Moreover, Basas emphasized that, in addition to salary increases, the government must enact long-term reforms that provide benefits like enhanced healthcare, housing assistance, and legal support for teachers dealing with administrative and legal challenges.

"We must go beyond token increases,” Basas said, noting that teachers are the “backbone of our education system.”

Basas stressed that investing in teachers is investing in the future of the nation. “It is time for our policymakers to prioritize teachers and ensure that they receive what they rightfully deserve,” he added.

As the elections draw near, TDC pledged to actively engage with both candidates and the public to ensure that the salary increase and other teacher welfare concerns are prioritized in national discussions.

Basas stressed that the decision on who will sit in Congress is pivotal in shaping the future of teachers.

“We urge our fellow educators to carefully examine the platforms of candidates and vote for those who truly support teachers' rights and welfare,” he added.