MANILA, Philippines—Public school teachers and poll workers will receive an additional P1,000 election honoraria on top of the previously approved P2,000 across-the-board increase for their service during the May 2025 national and local elections.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the additional aid is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure fair compensation for election frontliners.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara expressed gratitude for the additional honoraria, describing it as a significant benefit for the thousands of public school teachers and personnel who served as election watchers and worked beyond regular hours to ensure a smooth election.

The Department of Budget and Management approved the release of P758.459 million for the additional P1,000 honoraria. This is separate from the P2,000 increase included in the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

According to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), an estimated 758,549 poll workers will serve in the upcoming elections, most of whom are public school teachers. 

Comelec said poll workers will receive their full election compensation, including the additional amount, within ten days after the elections.

Secretary Angara also highlighted the crucial role of teachers and Department of Education personnel in the successful conduct of the elections.

“With a voter turnout reaching 81.65 percent — the highest in COMELEC’s history — the contribution of our teachers is clearly seen in holding an orderly, peaceful, and credible election,” Angara said.