Ex-VP Binay seeks more benefits, pay hike for teachers to stop ‘brain drain’

Jejomar Binay

MANILA, Philippines — Former Vice President and senatorial aspirant Jejomar Binay on Thursday said government needs to take immediate steps to stop the exodus of teachers for jobs abroad.

“Our teachers should be mentoring future leaders and achievers, and not toiling in foreign lands far from their families,” Binay said.

Binay, who was former presidential adviser for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Concerns, said many teachers have even opted to work as nannies or domestic helpers abroad.

“This should not be the case. We should work to recognize the dignity of our teachers and the teaching profession,” he said.

The former vice president said if elected to the Senate, he will push for an increase in the salaries and benefits of public school teachers.

“Our teachers have long been asking for an increase in pay, and it is high time that we make this a reality,” Binay said.

The former vice president said he will move to increase the starting pay of teachers from P25,439.00, or salary grade 11, to P35,097.00, or salary grade 15.

Aside from a salary increase, Binay said he will pursue legislation increasing teachers’ allowance for instructional materials, providing study grants and scholarships for their children, and tax exemptions for additional benefits.

He will also propose regular study leaves with pay “to enable (our teachers) to upgrade their knowledge and teaching skills.”

“We need to recognize and honor their sacrifices by making sure they get the compensation and benefits they deserve,” he said.

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