President Marcos Delivers Good News for Teachers in His 2025 SONA

In his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered on July 28, 2025, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. placed a strong spotlight on the education sector—particularly on teachers who serve as the foundation of the country’s future. His message was clear: Teachers will not be left behind. They will be empowered, protected, and properly supported.

Here are the key benefits and support programs unveiled in SONA 2025 that directly impact teachers:

1. Overtime and Teaching Overload Compensation

One of the most applauded announcements was that starting this new school year, public school teachers will begin receiving proper pay for overtime and teaching overload duties. For years, teachers have shouldered extra hours and responsibilities without appropriate compensation.

Moreover, about 50% of their administrative tasks have already been removed, and the remaining duties will be digitized—giving teachers more time to focus on actual teaching.

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2. Laptops and Digital Learning Tools for All Teachers

As part of the broader digital transformation initiative in education, laptops are now being distributed to every public school teacher. This also includes the installation of smart TVs in classrooms, free Wi-Fi in remote schools, and Bayanihan SIM cards loaded with regular data packages to enhance digital and hybrid learning systems.

The goal: to modernize the teaching process and improve the learning experience for students and teachers alike.

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3. ₱7,000 Annual Medical Allowance

President Marcos approved the release of a ₱7,000 yearly medical allowance for all DepEd teachers and non-teaching personnel. This allowance aims to ease the burden of medical expenses and promote health and well-being among educators, especially amidst ongoing public health concerns.

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4. New Career Levels and Promotion Opportunities

Responding to long-standing concerns about limited promotion paths, the government introduced new teaching levels—from Teacher IV to Teacher VII. Over 2,100 school heads have also been reclassified as official school principals.

These career enhancements aim to recognize competence and leadership in the teaching profession and provide a clear path for professional growth.

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5. Increased Teaching Supplies Allowance

Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, the annual teaching supplies allowance has been doubled—from ₱5,000 to ₱10,000. This helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses for chalks, markers, bond papers, and other classroom materials that teachers often provide themselves.

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A Time for Change and Recognition

These benefits are part of the Marcos administration’s broader vision to reform education and uphold the dignity of Filipino teachers. With higher compensation, access to technology, career growth opportunities, and health and teaching support—educators are finally receiving the recognition and resources they long deserved.

In the years ahead, more reforms are expected to continue. And as the President echoed in his closing words: “We are the New Philippines.” In this new chapter, teachers are not just educators—they are empowered nation-builders.

GOOD NEWS FOR TEACHERS (READ HERE)