DBM: No Duterte order on early release of state workers’ 13th-month pay

MANILA, Philippines – While President Duterte has urged the private sector to release their workers’ 13th-month earlier than usual, he has yet to issue a similar order to government agencies and offices.

“Insofar as the government personnel are concerned, there is no directive from President Rodrigo R. Duterte to release their 13th-month pay in advance because even as work in the government is suspended, they still receive their salary while working from home,” Budget Secretary Wendel E. Avisado told the Inquirer on Tuesday.

“In fact, they are able to save their transportation expense as they do not leave their homes anymore during the period of enhanced community quarantine,” Avisado added.

The government on Monday expanded the one-month containment to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Asked if the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) would seek the President’s approval to release government employees’ 13th-month pay earlier than usual, Avisado replied: “No, as there is no presidential directive on that.”

As for the President’s statement Monday night urging release of 13th-month pay even on prorated basis, Avisado clarified that it only covers the private sector.

The government releases 13th-month pay to its employees in mid-May, ahead of the school enrollment season.

 GSG

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