Manila Moves to Pay Long-Overdue Teacher Allowances
The city of Manila is finally delivering on a promise to its public school teachers and non-teaching personnel, with the first tranche of long-awaited allowances set to roll out starting Tuesday, October 7. Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso announced the development during a flag-raising ceremony at the Manila City Hall, signaling a significant step toward addressing years of accumulated obligations to educators in the capital.
What Is Being Paid and Who Benefits
The initial payout amounts to ₱25 million and will benefit roughly 11,000 teachers and non-teaching staff under the Schools Division Office of Manila. The funds cover allowances dating back to April, with more payments expected as the city finalizes remaining obligations and secures the resources needed to fulfill the full sequence of arrears.
How the funds Were Secured
Domagoso attributed the release of the funds to an unexpected windfall funded by stricter fiscal management and intensified tax collection efforts. The city reported an additional ₱160 million in collections from national government contractors operating in Manila—revenue that was previously unaccounted for and is now being redirected to satisfy the long-delayed allowances.
“We have collected ₱160 million from those contractors. We call that a windfall,” the mayor said. “Because of that, I’m happy to announce that we can now start paying our teachers.”
Context Behind the Delay
While acknowledging the delay, Domagoso emphasized that the city is prioritizing its obligations to educators, even as it navigates ongoing financial pressures. He apologized for the lateness and stressed that the administration is working to restore normal operations while honoring commitments from the past.
The Broader Financial Picture
The payout represents a portion of the city’s efforts to resolve backlogs linked to education funding. The mayor did not promise immediate full payment of all arrears but reaffirmed Manila’s commitment to meeting its obligations to teachers and non-teaching personnel as resources permit.
Messages to Manila’s Educators
Domagoso used the occasion to thank teachers and support staff for their patience and dedication amid financial uncertainties. He underscored that the administration recognizes the critical role of educators in shaping the city’s future and pledged ongoing efforts to support them, despite fiscal constraints.
What Comes Next
As Manila proceeds with the release of the first tranche, the administration indicated it will continue to monitor collections and manage funds to address remaining arrears. Teachers and school personnel can expect updates as additional payments are processed, with the aim of restoring full confidence and stability within the education sector in Manila.
In closing, the mayor reiterated a forward-looking stance: even when difficulties arise, the city will strive to meet its obligations, ensuring that educators feel valued and supported as they carry out their essential work.
