SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go has commended the signing of Republic Act No. 11997, or the ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act,’ by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, a significant legislative measure aimed at increasing the teaching supply allowances for public school teachers.

The law seeks to ease educators’ financial challenges by enhancing their allowances for essential teaching supplies.

Go, who played a significant role as a co-author and co-sponsor of the law in the Senate, emphasized the importance of this legislation in enhancing the quality of education and promoting the welfare of teachers in the Philippines.

“With the enactment of the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, we are taking a crucial step toward empowering our teachers and enriching our educational system,” Go, who is also a member of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, stated.

He highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader effort to support educators so they can focus on delivering quality education without the distractions of financial constraints.

The new law increases the allowance for teaching supplies from PhP7,500 to PhP10,000 starting in the School Year 2024-25, with provisions for future increases to support the evolving needs of educators.

This adjustment aims to cover essential teaching materials such as chalk and paper, which were previously often purchased out-of-pocket by the teachers.

Go reiterated his commitment to advancing the educational sector in the country, noting that investing in teachers is synonymous with investing in the nation’s future.

“By providing our educators with adequate support, we ensure that our youth are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead our country forward,” he concluded.