MANILA, Philippines — A bill has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to triple the World Teachers’ Day Incentive Benefit (WTDIB) for public school teachers, raising the annual cash gift from ₱1,000 to ₱3,000.
House Assistant Minority Leader and Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, author of House Bill No. 4531, said the measure aims to honor the contributions of teachers to nation-building while helping them cope with the rising cost of living.
“Teachers are the bedrock of nation-building. By increasing the WTDIB, we are not just providing financial assistance — we are sending a clear message that the country values the dedication and sacrifice of our educators,” Gonzales said in a statement.
Gonzales, who also sits on the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture, noted that the WTDIB was first granted in 2019 through a special provision in the General Appropriations Act. His bill seeks to make the benefit permanent and institutionalized in law.
House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan is a co-author of the measure.
Under current Department of Education (DepEd) guidelines, the WTDIB is distributed to more than 950,000 public school teachers nationwide on or before October 5, coinciding with the celebration of World Teachers’ Day.
Gonzales said the proposed increase is a modest but meaningful way to acknowledge the tireless efforts of educators, who often go beyond their classroom duties to ensure the success of their students.
“When we invest in teachers, we invest in the next generation of Filipinos,” he said. “Our bill is a step toward creating an environment where educators feel valued, supported, and empowered to give their best.”
The filing of the bill comes as the country marks National Teachers’ Month, which runs from September 5 to October 5, culminating in World Teachers’ Day.
Globally observed every October 5, World Teachers’ Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to highlight the critical role of teachers in shaping societies. In the Philippines, Republic Act No. 10743 also designates October 5 as National Teachers’ Day.
“This is more than just an incentive. This is an expression of national gratitude,” Gonzales said. “Our teachers work tirelessly, often beyond the classroom, to ensure that every child has a chance to succeed. They deserve a meaningful token of appreciation that reflects their contribution to our collective future.”
