THE DEPARTMENT of Budget and Management has approved a P2,000 across-the-board increase in compensation for teachers and other electoral workers serving in the upcoming May 12 midterm elections.

The DBM confirmed the new honoraria rates for members of the Electoral Board. Under the revised scheme, the chairperson will receive P12,000, up from the previous P10,000, while the poll clerk and third member will now get P11,000 each, an increase from P9,000.

Support staff will also receive higher pay, now set at P8,000, up from P6,000.

“This is a realization of the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is truly committed to ensuring we provide needed support for the welfare of our teachers,” said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

According to the Commission on Elections, about 758,549 poll workers will serve in the national and local elections. The total budgetary requirement for their compensation is pegged at P7.480 billion, as authorized under the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

Poll workers are also entitled to travel, communication, and meal allowances, as well as service credits, in accordance with the Election Service Reform Act and Comelec Resolution No. 10194.

Pangandaman emphasized the importance of timely disbursement of compensation.

“I urge Comelec to ensure that our teachers and poll workers receive their compensation as quickly as possible. The release of their benefits should be timely. They deserve nothing less,” she said.