Teachers Urge DepEd to Release Medical Allowance in Cash

The Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) has asked the Department of Education (DepEd) to release the medical allowance for teachers in cash, as allowed under Executive Order No. 64 and DBM Budget Circular 2024-6. In a letter dated April 4, 2024, TDC Chairperson Benjo Basas said enrolling all DepEd staff in an HMO may not be possible soon due to the department's size.

Basas explained that giving the allowance in cash would help teachers cover urgent medical needs, like the required annual physical exam.

DepEd responded on April 28, saying the large number of employees could actually help secure better HMO coverage. Still, the TDC insists that, due to delays, it’s more practical to give the cash this year.

While supporting a long-term HMO system, the TDC is urging DepEd to speed up the selection of a provider to ensure teachers get timely and quality healthcare.

GOOD NEWS FOR TEACHERS (READ HERE)