Educators in Catanduanes have expressed their gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his decision to elevate the Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) from PHP18,000 to PHP20,000. This increase was warmly received by teachers at Pangilao Elementary School in San Miguel, who described it as a timely blessing, particularly in the wake of recent typhoons that devastated the region. The teachers highlighted that the additional funds would not only aid them personally but also allow them to extend support to their students, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing educational services for the community and the nation.
Teachers across various schools in Catanduanes shared how they plan to utilize the increased SRI. Some, like those at Pangilao Elementary, intend to allocate the funds towards repairing typhoon-damaged homes and preparing for family celebrations like Noche Buena. Jean Tenoria from Cabugao Integrated School in Bato town expressed her relief, noting that the increased incentive would help cover her son’s medical expenses, a pressing financial concern for her family.
Veteran educator Arlene Triunfo emphasized the importance of the SRI for teachers, especially those struggling to recover from weather-related damages. She pointed out that the incentive serves as a crucial resource for rebuilding and improving their lives. Similarly, Garry Posada from Catanduanes National High School in Virac town acknowledged the financial relief the higher SRI would bring, while also calling on the President to consider increasing teachers’ basic salaries.
Gilbert Sadsad, the Regional Director of the Department of Education-Bicol (DepEd-5), celebrated the President’s directive, noting that this is the first time teachers will receive the maximum SRI amount of PHP20,000. He stressed the necessity of this support for teachers affected by typhoon-induced floods and expressed hope for continued beneficial policies from the administration.