Pass bill on minimum P50k monthly pay for teachers

The article “World Bank study to decide pay hike for teachers – DepEd” (News, 2/16/24) describes a future time for public school teachers when the days of overworked but underpaid mentors are finally a thing of the past.

This is why I am one with lawmakers in pushing for House Bill No. 9920 proposing to raise the minimum monthly pay for teachers to P50,000.

We have seen an upward trend of increases in the prices of basic commodities and services to the detriment of their interests. It runs counter to the goal of improving their welfare. It’s time to stop the irresponsible act of merely ignoring the plea to provide them with higher wages. The negligence of those who should have exercised utmost care for them is appalling.The interest in becoming a teacher is waning. You see this in a disproportionate exodus of teachers. Many are now working as domestic helpers in Hong Kong or as factory workers in Taiwan. So provide support for the remaining people who still have faith and confidence in the teaching profession.

Great developments in the education sector don’t just happen. I am, therefore urging Congress to pass this measure without delay. Filipinos are sick and tired of hearing tales of teachers who are selling longganisa, underwear, and so forth to augment their meager incomes.

HB 9920 is a perfect encouragement for mentors to work hard in molding the minds of the young. For their tenacity, dedication, integrity, and discipline, pass this measure now. It will be an achievement far, far more important than Charter change. Acknowledging the hardships brought forth by the high cost of living, the government should prioritize an increased budgetary allocation for cash-strapped teachers. No ifs and buts!

FLORITA G. NARCIZA, Ph.D.,
Binalonan, Pangasinan