The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) lauds the passage of Senate Bill (SB) No. 1964 or the “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo” Act during its third and final reading in the Senate on 22 May 2023. SB 1964 seeks to institutionalise and increase the teaching supply allowance (TSA) of public school teachers in the country.
From their current Php5,000 ‘chalk allowance,’ public school teachers will receive an allowance for teaching supplies and other incidental expenses worth Php7,500 in the academic year (AY) 2023 to 2024, and Php10,000 for AY 2024 to 2025 onwards. Furthermore, the TSA will not be subject to tax.
The right to education, as a fundamental human right, is essential for the development and empowerment of individuals and societies. However, not only is access to education crucial, the quality of education available to learners must also be guaranteed. In this regard, teachers unquestionably play a vital role in delivering quality education.
The increase in teachers’ supply allowance envisaged by SB 1964 acknowledges the importance of adequately equipping teachers with the necessary tools and materials to carry out their invaluable work. By enhancing the resources for teachers, we concurrently take a significant step towards ensuring the realisation of the right to quality education for all. Likewise, addressing the financial challenges faced by teachers—who, according to the bill’s principal author, Senator Bong Revilla Jr., “shell out money from their own pockets to buy supplies”—contributes to their right to work in decent conditions and right to an adequate standard of living.
The Commission is hopeful that SB 1964 will usher in more programs and policies that will respond to the pressing concerns of teachers and educators across all levels of education, such as appropriate remuneration, professional growth and development, freedom of expression and participation, and equal opportunity.
In line with our mandate to protect and promote Filipinos’ human rights, CHR stands ready to provide any assistance or expertise required in the deliberations and implementation of this bill. We echo the appeal of Senator Revilla to make the measure a priority in the House of Representatives. The Commission also encourages all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, education experts, and the wider public, to lend their support to this legislative proposal.
We emphasise that an inclusive and equitable education system that empowers both teachers and students, fosters a society that values and upholds the human rights and dignity of all. ###