MANILA—Public school educators in the Philippines can now look forward to a more rewarding and structured future as President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12288 into law on September 12, 2025 known as the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders Act.

This landmark legislation institutionalizes a merit-based framework that eliminates the "promotion ceiling" for classroom teachers. Authored and championed by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, the law ensures that educators no longer have to leave the classroom for administrative roles just to receive a higher salary, effectively keeping the country’s best teaching talent where they are needed most.

The new law introduces a dual-track system that offers equivalent salaries and benefits for both teaching and administrative paths. After reaching the Master Teacher I level, educators can choose to stay in the Teaching Career Line, which now includes expanded positions up to Master Teacher VI, or move into the School Administration Career Line to become school leaders. 

This means a Master Teacher II will now enjoy the same pay grade as a School Principal I, ensuring that teaching expertise is valued just as highly as management. To support this growth, the law also mandates the creation of new position titles, including Teacher IV to VII and School Principal V.

Beyond salary increases, RA 12288 shifts promotions toward a competency-based system anchored on professional standards. Educators must pass a Standards-Based Assessment to advance, ensuring that promotions are rooted in merit and fitness rather than arbitrary criteria. 

For those who struggle with the transition, the law provides a safety net through a free support program led by the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP). 

Crucially, the legislation guarantees that no incumbent teacher or school leader will suffer a reduction in salary or benefits during this transition, providing a secure and clear roadmap for the professional growth of the nation's educators.

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