MANILA, Philippines, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has publicly praised the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for eliminating the deadline for public school teachers to use service credits earned while serving in election-related roles. The change, effective immediately, allows teachers to access these credits at any time following their participation in electoral activities, according to Comelec Resolution No. 11212-A. The resolution marks a reversal of earlier rules that required teachers to use their service credits within the same calendar year they were earned. Previously, under Comelec Resolution No. 11212, issued in March, teachers had to utilize their credits within the year of earning them, or within three months after special elections, plebiscites, initiatives, referenda, or recall elections. The new policy expands eligibility, allowing service credits to be accessed at any point after the completion of the relevant electoral activity. This shift came after discussions between Comelec and the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT). ACT national chairperson Ruby Bernardo expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing that the change reflects recognition of the risks and challenges faced by teachers who volunteer for election duties. She noted that teachers often work long hours, face exhaustion, and sometimes put themselves in dangerous situations to ensure fair voting processes. The Department of Education estimates that approximately 600,000 public school teachers serve as electoral board members or support staff during each election cycle. These educators receive between five to ten service credits, equivalent to vacation leaves, for their contributions. The revised policy ensures that these credits remain valid indefinitely, providing teachers with greater flexibility in managing their professional benefits. Angara echoed the sentiments of the ACT, acknowledging the physical and emotional toll placed on teachers who participate in election services. He emphasized that the removal of strict deadlines aligns with the need to respect the well-being and entitlements of educators. “It is only right that we do not deny them or restrict through strict deadlines the rest and benefits they deserve,” he stated, adding gratitude toward Comelec for responding swiftly to appeals and acknowledging the sacrifices made by teachers. The adjustment was implemented following a meeting between Comelec and representatives of the education sector, highlighting a collaborative effort to address concerns raised by teachers regarding the practicality and fairness of the prior rules. The updated guidelines apply retroactively to all elections held after the effectiveness of the new resolution, ensuring that teachers who served in previous cycles are also eligible to benefit from the change. With the new policy in place, teachers are no longer bound by annual or quarterly constraints when accessing their service credits. This change aims to streamline administrative procedures and better accommodate the diverse schedules and needs of educators who contribute to the electoral process. As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the revised guidelines offer clarity and support to those participating in election-related tasks.
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