ACT Teachers Partylist and education sector leaders secured key commitments from Commission on Elections Chairman George Garcia regarding enhanced benefits and protection for teachers serving in the 2025 national and local elections.

During a productive dialogue at the Comelec office, Garcia agreed to double the service credits for teachers from 5 to 10 days and extend 5 days of service credits to other government employees serving in the elections.

The discussion was attended by former ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, ACT national chairperson Vladimer Quetua, ACT NCR Union president Ruby Bernardo, and other education sector leaders.

“This is a significant win for our teachers, who have long served as the backbone of Philippine elections. The doubling of service credits and the additional benefits will help compensate for the risks and challenges they face during election duty,” said Tinio.

Garcia also committed to implementing the previously announced P2,000 increase in honorarium and working toward a P1,000 transportation allowance on election day.

Additionally, Comelec will streamline the reimbursement process for legal and medical expenses of teachers.

“We welcome these concrete steps to protect our teachers. The removal of the digital signature requirement and the assignment of two additional support staff per precinct will significantly ease their election day duties,” Tinio added.

A partnership between the Alliance of Concerned Teachers Election Hotline and Comelec will further strengthen the support system for teachers during elections.

“These commitments demonstrate recognition of the importance of the service rendered by teachers during elections. We will continue to work with Comelec to ensure these benefits are properly implemented,” Tinio concluded.