Better health care seen for teachers seen by '25

THE Department of Education (DepEd) said that it aims to provide expanded health care benefits to public school teachers nationwide once the increased medical allowance for government employees is implemented by 2025.

Under Executive Order 64 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on August 2, the government is set to provide an annual medical allowance of up to P7,000 to eligible government civilian personnel, including public school teachers.

The allowance was intended to subsidize the cost of health maintenance organization (HMO)-type benefits.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara said if the funds are pooled together, the DepEd may secure comprehensive insurance coverage for teachers.

The allowance is a 1,300 percent increase from the P500 medical examination allowance provided in 2020 and is a substantial enhancement in support of teachers' health and well-being.

In addition to the medical allowance, public school teachers have also received a P5,000 tax-free teaching allowance for school year 2024-2025 due to the implementation of the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which was co-authored by Angara in the Senate.

The allowance is set to increase to P10,000 beginning School Year 2025-2026 and beyond.

DepEd also reminded its teaching and non-teaching personnel that they are eligible to file claims under the Government Service Insurance System-issued Personal Accident Insurance policy, which provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment for up to P100,000 and medical reimbursement for up to P30,000 for injuries.