To provide much-needed rest and recovery, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Monday, April 7, that it had granted a 30-day uninterrupted flexible vacation for teachers.

“This break is a well-deserved opportunity for our learners and teachers to relax after a long academic year,” DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said in a statement. “I hope they spend this time wisely, unwinding with their families and loved ones, and return to work energized for the new school year,” he added.

DepEd introduced the 30-day uninterrupted flexible vacation without school-related commitments for teachers in a recently amended policy aimed at supporting teacher well-being.

The amended policy, DepEd said, underscores the administration’s ongoing efforts to “enhance the work-life balance of teachers and ensure they have time to rest and recharge without the burden of additional work-related responsibilities.”

DepEd stated that the updated guidelines allow teachers to schedule their 30-day uninterrupted break between April 16 and June 1, 2025, either “continuously or on a staggered basis.”

The revised order also clarified that Alternative Learning System (ALS) teachers and those directly involved in teaching Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) classes are included in the 30-day vacation period.

Additionally, learners participating in mandatory summer programs will have their vacation scheduled outside the period of May 13 to June 6, 2025, DepEd explained.

Not obligated

DepEd clarified that during the declared 30-day vacation, teachers “will not be obligated” to participate in any activities related to the Performance Management Evaluation System (PMES).

“They can complete and submit their electronic Individual Performance Commitment and Review Form (eIPCRF) by the end of the first month of the SY 2025-2026,” DepEd said.

“Teachers applying for promotion may submit the required performance evaluations before the last day of classes,” DepEd added.

While participation in professional development activities or summer training is voluntary, DepEd stated that such events will be scheduled outside the declared vacation period.

“Teachers who engage in these activities will earn Vacation Service Credits (VSC) on top of the 30-day limit,” DepEd explained.

Not included

Meanwhile, DepEd noted that school heads are “not included” in the vacation benefits, as they are responsible for managing the school during the break.

“However, they are entitled to vacation and sick leave credits during the said period,” DepEd said.

DepEd added that teachers are “allowed” to visit the school or participate in activities such as the May 2025 elections and sports events during their 30-day vacation.