In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Department of Education (DepEd) personnel from the Ilocos Region have expressed their gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for approving the maximum Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) of PHP20,000 for eligible government employees. This announcement was made during a forum on graduation and moving-up rites policies held in San Fernando City, La Union, on May 22, 2024.
Assistant Regional Director Dr. Rhoda Razon of DepEd Ilocos Region conveyed the appreciation, stating, “Thank you, PBBM (President Bongbong Marcos)!” She highlighted that this is the first time they are receiving the full amount of the SRI, which, although subject to tax for some, is a significant boost for the staff. Razon also mentioned that most school division offices in the region are optimistic about distributing the SRI to personnel starting December 20, 2024.
Teachers from the region shared their plans for the incentive. Mildred Cordero-Castillo from Sto. Tomas National High School in La Union expressed that the SRI is a wonderful gift that will enhance their holiday celebrations with family. Hercy Ojeda from Malasiqui town plans to use her incentive to cover her mother’s medical expenses, specifically for laboratory tests and medications.
The distribution of the SRI, as outlined in the DBM Circular Letter and a DepEd Memorandum for fiscal year 2024, is scheduled to be disbursed to regional offices on December 20. This incentive will benefit a total of 57,348 teaching and non-teaching personnel in the Ilocos Region.