THE DEPARTMENT of Budget and Management has approved the release of PHP758.459 million to provide an additional PHP1,000 honorarium to each of the 758,549 poll workers—including public school teachers—who served during the May 12 midterm elections.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman made the announcement on Monday, stating that the added compensation comes on top of the previously approved PHP2,000 increase under the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

The move follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to further recognize the vital role of poll workers and educators in ensuring a credible and orderly electoral process.

“Once again, we have witnessed the dedication of our teachers and poll workers in safeguarding our votes. By order of our beloved President, we approved additional funds to provide them with added honoraria,” Pangandaman said.

“That’s the least we can do to honor their invaluable service. This is one way we express our gratitude,” she added.

The Commission on Elections earlier reported that 758,549 individuals served in various capacities during the recently concluded national and local elections.

By law, their compensation—including additional amounts—must be released within 10 days after election day.

The timely release of funds by the DBM is seen as both a recognition of the essential role of electoral workers and a morale boost as the country strengthens its democratic institutions.