ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro on Thursday, March 6, welcomed the Commission on Elections' (Comelec) decision to increase from five to 10 the service credits of government employees rendering service in the elections.

Castro, a House deputy minority leader, called the development "a significant victory" for teachers who have long advocated for better compensation and recognition of their role in the polls.

Through Minute Resolution No. 24-1032, the Comelec en banc approved the doubling of service credits granted to government officials and employees who render election service under Republic Act (RA) No. 10756 or the Election Service Reform Act (ESRA).

"This is a welcome development that recognizes the tremendous sacrifice and dedication of our teachers and other government employees who ensure the smooth conduct of our elections," Castro said.

Meanwhile, ACT Teachers Party-list nominee and former representative Antonio Tinio said the increased service credits will provide tangible benefits to teachers who bear the brunt of election duties.

"Ang tagumpay na ito ay bunga ng patuloy na pakikibaka ng mga guro at kawani ng gobyerno na nagsisilbi tuwing eleksyon. Hindi biro ang kanilang trabaho (This victory is the result of the continued struggle of teachers and government employees who serve during elections)," Tinio stated.

"The doubling of service credits means teachers can convert these to vacation leave credits or use them for much-needed rest after the physically and mentally exhausting election duty. This is a concrete gain that directly benefits thousands of election workers," Tinio added.

But Castro emphasized that while the increased service credits represent progress, more reforms are needed to fully recognize and compensate the crucial role of teachers in ensuring credible and peaceful elections.