Updates from Sir Benjo Basas of the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition

As the end of the year approaches, many teachers and government employees are once again asking the familiar question: “Will there be a Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) this year?”
To help shed light on this, Sir Benjo Basas of the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) shared several insights and expectations regarding the possible release of SRI for this year.

1. Why is December the most likely month for the SRI Administrative Order?

According to Sir Benjo, if we look at the past six years, all Administrative Orders (AOs) authorizing the release of SRI were issued in December.

Earliest release: December 2, 2019
Most AOs are released between the first and third week of December

Given this consistent pattern, if the President issues a new AO for this year, it will most likely be around December 2025. The historical trend strongly suggests that December is the standard release period.

2. Why is the issuance of an AO for SRI 2025 considered likely?

Historically, the government has consistently provided the SRI every year through an AO. Beyond this pattern, Sir Benjo points out that the government is financially capable of granting the incentive, noting that:

The national government has sufficient fiscal capacity
Recent issues involving large amounts of public funds indicate that there are substantial resources available, suggesting that providing SRI should not be difficult if the administration prioritizes it

In essence, the probability is high that another SRI will be granted, unless a major policy shift or financial constraint arises.

3. How much will the SRI likely be this year?

There is no official announcement yet. However, based on the previous releases:

The most likely amount is up to ₱20,000, the same maximum granted in past years
Many groups—including TDC—are hoping for a higher amount to better support teachers and government workers amid rising costs and increasing workload

Conclusion

As of now, the government has not yet issued any official statement regarding the SRI for this year. But based on the last six years of releases, the fiscal capability of the government, and the observations shared by Sir Benjo Basas:

The SRI for this year is highly possible
December 2025 is the most expected period for the issuance of an AO
The likely amount is ₱20,000, though many are hoping for an increase

While waiting for the official announcement, teachers and government employees continue to hope for a meaningful incentive that acknowledges their ongoing dedication and hard work.