DepEd vows support for teachers serving as poll workers

The Department of Education (DepEd) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the rights and welfare of teachers who will serve as poll workers in the upcoming May 12 national and local elections.

"Our teachers are holding up the pillars of democracy. In return, we are making sure their service is met with gratitude, preparation, and protection," Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

The DepEd chief issued the statement in a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing event with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and other partners earlier this month.

"This is more than an election," he added. "It is a national act of trust—and our teachers deserve nothing less than our full support," Angara said.

The agency said DepEd's Election Task Force (ETF) will be mobilized nationwide to provide real-time monitoring, assistance, and incident response during the elections.

The DepEd Election Command Center will also be fully operational from May 11 to 13. Its headquarters will be located in Makati City.

Each ETF operations center will coordinate with the Comelec, Public Attorney's Office, and law enforcement bodies to safeguard the rights and welfare of teachers who will provide election service.

"Our ETF is built like a command center—with clear roles, dedicated personnel, and the authority to act fast when our people need help," Angara said.

The ETF members will also be entitled to honoraria, overtime pay, or compensatory time off, depending on their employment status and subject to government rules.

Clear guidelines have also been issued to maintain political neutrality, with strict prohibitions against electioneering and partisan activity, DepEd said.

The signed MOA also included key provisions for legal and medical assistance for teachers and personnel who will be deployed, as well as enhanced coordination among agencies to safeguard their welfare.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) also pledged to provide legal assistance to teachers who may face complaints for serving in the midterm elections. — VDV, GMA Integrated News

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