DepEd to give teachers additional P5K assistance within first week of classes


MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) confirmed that all teachers will receive a cash assistance within the first week of classes for school year 2022-2023.

DepEd will give teachers P5,000 cash aid within the first week of classes
DepEd will give teachers P5,000 cash aid within the first week of classes | Photo Courtesy: Facebook/ Inday Sara Duterte

During DepEd’s joint presser with the Office of the Vice President, DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said that the agency will grant P5,000 to teachers as financial assistance. The amount is an added benefit and separate from the schools’ Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE).

The cash aid can be used by teachers to help them prepare for the incoming school year.

“Mga chalk and all that should be part of the MOOE of the schools. Itong P5,000 ay lalo na iyong mga kailangan ng internet connection parang additional assistance lang po talaga iyan for our teachers,” Poa said.

The 5,000 aid will be given to all teachers on the first day of classes, Monday, August 22.

“Lahat po ng teachers, makakatanggap. Ibababa po iyan sa, I think, mga school division. I’ll confirm [the details] pero lahat po ay makatatanggap by August 22 noong P5,000 cash allowance,” Poa added.

Poa later clarified that the release of cash aid will be made within the first week of classes.
Aside from the financial assistance, Poa assured that teachers will be given more non-financial benefits and loans. A salary increase is also expected before 2023.

Meanwhile, Poa said the agency has a total funding of P3.7 billion set aside for supplemental MOOE to ensure that all schools will be ready for the resumption of face-to-face classes.

“Ito po ay para masigurado na kumpleto sila sa mga kagamitan, especially for the minimum health and safety standards to be observed tulad ng mga alcohol. It’s not specifically to ask them to buy face masks. Hindi po ganoon iyon. It’s really for the MOOE. We’re giving them the flexibility to buy whatever they need,” Poa revealed.

Earlier, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte confirmed that the opening of classes will push through on August 22, despite opposition from several teachers groups.

READ: DepEd releases school calendar for SY 2022-2023

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) lamented the scheduled class opening because it will not leave teachers enough time to prepare and rest. The education secretary said that the decision is final and was already approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

— Sally, The Summit Express