Teachers' group backs higher PERA for teachers, government workers

ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio L. Tinio said the proposed P2,000 economic relief allowance is no longer enough to meet the needs of teachers and other government employees, stressing the need to raise the amount to P5,000.

In a statement, Tinio said the current proposal falls short, especially for educators and state workers receiving low salaries. He pointed out that many teachers continue to spend from their own pockets for classroom and teaching materials, adding to their financial burden.

“Hindi na sapat ang P2,000 para sa economic relief lalo na mababa ang sweldo ng mga guro at government employees. Idagdag pa rito ang panay na ang paggastos mula sa sariling bulsa para sa teaching materials,” he said.

Tinio said improving the economic condition of teachers is crucial not only for their welfare but also for the broader education sector.

“Kapag naapektuhan ang kabuhayan at kakayahan ng mga guro, apektado ang buong sektor ng edukasyon at ang kinabukasan ng milyun-milyong mag-aaral,” he said.

The lawmaker made the statement in support of a proposal seeking a P5,000 Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (PERA) for teachers and government workers.

The push for a higher allowance comes amid continuing concerns over the rising cost of living and the growing expenses shouldered by educators in performing their work. For many teachers, classroom needs often go beyond what is officially provided, forcing them to cover basic materials themselves.

Tinio said increasing the relief allowance would be a meaningful step toward helping teachers and other public sector employees cope with daily expenses while continuing to deliver essential services.

The proposal also underscores the argument that support for teachers goes beyond salaries alone, as their financial stability is closely tied to the quality of education received by students.