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House Speaker Martin Romualdez says the increase the Teachers’ Salary Subsidy (TSS) for qualified private school teachers shows that President Marcos is committed to improving the quality of education in the country.
Romualdez, in a statement Tuesday, Aug. 5, says the adjustment oss not only a much-needed economic relief for private school teachers but also a move that supports the President’s vision for a more inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system.
“This increase in the annual TSS is a clear reflection of the President’s commitment to raise the quality of education in the country by improving the welfare of our educators,” said the Leyte 1st district representative.
Last week, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced an increase in the annual TSS for eligible private school teachers, raising it from P18,000 to P24,000 starting School Year (SY) 2025 to 2026.
“Our private school teachers are vital partners in nation-building and in addressing overcrowding in public schools. Supporting them through a salary subsidy hike means supporting better learning outcomes for our students,” added Romualdez.
The hike was approved by the State Assistance Council through an ad referendum resolution and will benefit teachers in private schools that participate in the Education Service Contracting (ESC) program—a key component of the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE).
The TSS is granted to private school teachers who teach ESC student-beneficiaries for at least three hours a week. These teachers help reduce congestion in public schools by providing alternative learning spaces for students from low-income families.
The move comes shortly after President Marcos, in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), reiterated his directive for reforms that include improved teacher welfare, strengthened support for learners, and a modern, inclusive education system.
“We are grateful to the [DepEd], under Secretary Sonny Angara, for acting swiftly on the President’s instructions. The increase in the TSS is not just a financial adjustment—it is a step forward in ensuring that no teacher is left behind in our efforts to deliver quality education for all,” Romualdez said.
Citing a 2023 survey showing that over 60 percent of private school teachers earn below P27,000 per month—the entry-level salary for public school teachers—Romualdez said the subsidy hike helps narrow the pay gap between private and public educators.
“The government must bridge this inequality to ensure that all teachers, regardless of sector, are recognized and supported in their crucial role of shaping the nation’s future,” he said.
