ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro hailed the Commission on Elections’ decision to double the service credits granted to government employees rendering election service, calling it a long-overdue victory for teachers.

Under Minute Resolution No. 24-1032, published on December 16, 2024, the Comelec En Banc approved the amendment of Section 16 of Comelec Resolution No. 10194, increasing service credits from five to ten days for government officials and employees who serve during elections.

“This is a welcome development that recognizes the tremendous sacrifice and dedication of our teachers and other government employees who ensure the smooth conduct of our elections,” Rep. Castro said.

“The increase in service credits from five to ten is a concrete manifestation that the COMELEC has listened to our long-standing demand for better compensation and benefits for election service workers,” she added.

ACT Teachers party-list nominee and former Representative Antonio Tinio emphasized that the increased service credits will provide tangible benefits to teachers who bear the brunt of election duties.

“Ang tagumpay na ito ay bunga ng patuloy na pakikibaka ng mga guro at kawani ng gobyerno na nagsisilbi tuwing eleksyon. Hindi biro ang kanilang trabaho—mula sa paghahanda ng mga presinto, pagbabantay ng mga balota, hanggang sa pagbilang at transmisyon ng mga boto,” Tinio stated.

“The doubling of service credits means teachers can convert these to vacation leave credits or use them for much-needed rest after the physically and mentally exhausting election duty. This is a concrete gain that directly benefits thousands of election workers,” he added.

Alliance of Concerned Teachers Philippines Chairman Vladimer Quetua also expressed satisfaction with the Comelec’s decision, noting that it came after a series of dialogues between the teachers’ group and the election body.

“Matagal na naming isinusulong ang dagdag na benepisyo para sa mga guro at kawani ng gobyerno na nagre-render ng election service. Natutuwa kami na nakinig ang Comelec sa aming kahilingan,” Quetua said.

Castro emphasized that while the increased service credits represent progress, more reforms are needed to fully recognize and compensate the crucial role of teachers in ensuring credible and peaceful elections.