The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) called on the government to raise the entry-level salary of public school teachers to P50,000, as classes resumed nationwide on Monday, June 8.

Members of ACT staged a protest near Mendiola in Manila on the opening day of the school year, urging authorities to address what they described as a deepening crisis in the country’s public education system, as reported by RH Tina Nolasco.

The group cited chronic underfunding, low wages, and shortages in classrooms, teachers, and education support personnel, as well as the need for comprehensive curriculum reforms and better workload policies.

ACT Chairperson Ruby Bernardo said the group is pushing for an increase in teachers’ starting salaries to P50,000, alongside a proposed P36,000 minimum pay for government employees.

Protesters also rejected claims that the government lacks funds, alleging instead that resources intended for education have been lost to corruption. They called for accountability for officials involved in anomalies and irregularities.

In addition to salary increases, the group appealed for a reduction in teachers’ workload, saying excessive duties have taken a toll on their health and family life.

“Nasaan ang trilyong pondo ng edukasyon upang punan ang mga pangangailan?” the group said during the protest.

“Gusto ng departamento ng edukasyon na tumaas ang quality of education subalit ito ay kulang sa pondo.”

After the Mendiola protest, participating teachers are set to return to their respective schools before resuming their demonstration at Welcome Rotonda around 5PM today.