More service credits for poll workers lauded

MANILA, Philippines — Public school teachers yesterday welcomed the approved increase of service credits for government officials and employees who would volunteer their services in the 2025 midterm elections.

“This is a significant victory for teachers and government employees who serve as frontliners during elections. Doubling service credits acknowledges the immense sacrifice, long hours, and risks that poll workers face during electoral exercises,” said Vladimer Quetua, chairman of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT).

Last week, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) approved a resolution increasing service credits from five to 10 for government officials and employees who will render election service in the 2025 midterm elections.

ACT said while the measure was welcome, President Marcos should also certify as urgent House Bill 3271, principally authored by ACT Teachers party-list, which seeks to tax-exempt compensation received by poll workers for both local and national elections.

The group noted that this is the same proposed measure that Marcos vetoed in 2022, barely a month after winning the elections and assuming office.

ACT reiterated its call for a significant increase in election service pay, amounting to a net of P15,000, emphasizing that the existing rates fail to compensate for the complexity, extended hours, and risks tied to election-related responsibilities.

“We call on Comelec and other relevant agencies to continue working with genuine teachers’ representatives to further improve the welfare and protection of poll workers. The integrity of our elections depends largely on their dedication and service, and they deserve nothing less than our full support,” Quetua said.

House deputy minority leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro also welcomed the increase in teachers’ service credits for election service, calling it a significant victory for teachers who have long advocated for better compensation and recognition of their essential role in Philippine elections.

The Comelec, through Minute Resolution No. 24-1032 published on Dec. 16, 2024, approved the amendment of Section 16 of Comelec Resolution No. 10194, effectively doubling the service credits granted to government officials and employees who render election service under Republic Act 10756 or the Election Service Reform Act. – Jose Rodel Clapano