MANILA—Public school teachers in the Philippines will now have their vacation service credits (VSCs) increased to 30 days annually, a significant rise from the previous 15 days, following a new order by the Department of Education (DepEd).

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara authorized DepEd Order No. 13 series of 2024, which not only doubles the VSCs but also revises eligibility criteria for these benefits. Under the new system, incumbent teachers with at least one year of service and those appointed within four months from the start of classes are eligible for the expanded 30-day VSCs. Those appointed more than four months after the start of the academic year will receive 45 days of VSCs per year.

VSCs serve as leave credits for teachers who work during summer or long vacation periods, Christmas and other holidays, and weekends, or who take on additional teaching loads. The updated guidelines also allow for these credits to be used to offset absences due to illness or personal matters, or to recover salary deductions during vacations.

Additionally, the new policy outlines the accrual of VSCs: teachers will earn 1.25 hours of VSC for every hour of service on regular school days, and 1.5 hours of VSC for each hour of service during weekends, holidays, and summer breaks. If teachers are required to handle extra classes without specific overload compensation, they will now receive 1.25 hours of VSC for every additional hour taught.

The revised guidelines also address ancillary tasks that extend beyond regular teaching duties, such as training during weekends or holidays, conducting remedial classes, handling election-related duties, and engaging in parent-teacher conferences and home visits. The process for approval of these credits will be streamlined and overseen by the authorized Schools Division Superintendent or their designated representative.