SENATORIAL aspirant and former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos emphasized the need for additional pay and protection for teachers and other poll watchers for their hard work during the 2025 elections.

Abalos explained that poll workers deserve these additional perks in recognition of their invaluable contributions to ensuring peaceful and fair elections.

“Teachers play a vital role in the upcoming elections to ensure the democratic process of selecting our country’s leaders. Their service to the nation is invaluable,” Abalos stated.

“In acknowledgment of their sacrifices, we must find a way to increase their honoraria and provide stronger legal and security protections during next year’s elections,” he added.

He urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Congress to ensure adequate budget allocation for poll worker compensation.

The additional pay would also help teachers and other poll workers cope with the rising cost of living.

“Teachers, along with poll watchers, are essential to the election process, promoting fair and clean elections. Their presence strengthens public confidence in the integrity of the elections,” he stressed.

“We will advocate for sufficient funding to ensure they are compensated fairly for their service,” he added.