DepEd eyes load allowance for teachers, SHS students

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has requested P4 billion from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to support distance learning, including the provision of load allowance for public school teachers and senior high school students.

“We recognize the importance of load allowance for our learners and teachers to deliver quality education despite these challenging times due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said yesterday.

“With support from our Congress and the DBM, we shall continue to push for more financial assistance to our stakeholders,” she added.

According to DepEd, the requested amount will cover the implementation of digital education, information technology, digital infrastructure and alternative learning strategies stipulated in Republic Act 11494 or the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act.

Once released, teachers will receive P450 per month while senior high school students will get P250 per month for three months.

It will benefit 3.2 million students and around 900,000 teachers nationwide, said DepEd.

Undersecretary for Administration Alain del Pascua said the connectivity allowance will enable students and teachers to communicate and download educational materials.

The total estimated amount for the allowance is P3.6 billion, with the remaining P400 million allocated to expand production of learning materials, augment funds for printing and delivery of self-learning modules and establish radio transmitters in schools.