Human Rights Online Philippines

DBM’s budget proposal, ‘A BAD’ news for teachers

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) on Tuesday described DBM’s appearance in the House budget hearing as “A bad news” after DBM secretary Butch Abad confirmed that there is no budget item for teachers salary increase as well as for other government employees.

“This administration is generous in giving us frustrations.” Said Benjo Basas, a high school teacher from Caloocan City and the group’s national chairperson. “The president’s SONA made no mention of salary increase for teachers. Now, Secretary Abad is bragging his productivity enhancement incentives (PEI) instead of providing our demand for salary increase.” He added.

Basas revealed that the PEI of state workers and public school teachers which amounts to P10, 000 since year 2007 was reduced to P5, 000 beginning 2012.

“I don’t want to compare this administration with Arroyo presidency, but in year 2007 and 2008, the then Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo provided for a 10% salary increase thru executive orders.” Basas recalled.”And in year 2009, the government began implementing the four-tranche salary increase thru the salary standardization law.”

Basas added that the only salary adjustments granted by under Aquino and Abad were the last two tranches of the SLL-3 which “not even initiated under the current presidency”.

The TDC has been lobbying for a P10, 000 across the board increase for public school teachers and has launched a series of protest that will culminate in October in time for the celebration of World Teachers’ Day.

“This time, the government should be taught of our importance.” Basas ended.
Reference: Benjo Basas, TDC National Chairperson, 09205740241

News Release
August 7, 2014

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