PNoy approves early release of pay hike for gov't employees

Tuesday 1st of May 2012

MANILA, May 1 -- President Benigno S. Aquino III approved the early release of the fourth tranche of the Salary Standardization Law III (SSL III) for government workers, a month ahead of schedule.

At today's celebration of Labor Day, President Aquino in his speech said he had instructed Budget Secretary Florencio Abad to expedite the release of the salary increase of government employees.

“Inapura na po natin si Kalihim Butch Abad para pagdating ng Hunyo, matatanggap na ang fourth tranche ng Salary Standardization Law III,” the President said.

Originally scheduled for July 1, 2012, the fourth tranche will cover all salary and base pay increases for national government employees until December 31, 2012. The early release of the salary hike will be supported by an additional P2.7 billion, sourced by government savings from the 2012 General Appropriations Act, bringing the total budget for the fourth tranche to P21.7 billion, a release from DBM stated.

“The advanced implementation of the pay increase is a gesture of appreciation by the Aquino administration to all government workers. They are after all our partners in reform, laboring tirelessly with us to institute good governance and promote accountability, transparency, and efficient leadership in government,” Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad said.

This pay hike will be charged to the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund in the 2012 GAA as well as from available savings.
For local government units, it will be charged against their respective local government funds.

The amount set for government-owned or controlled corporations and government financial institutions will be charged against their corporate funds in the approved corporate operating budgets.

“President Aquino pushed for the pay hike to help government employees keep up with the rising cost of living and the effects of inflation on the local economy. The increase will also enable them to cope with the recent spike in oil and commodity prices. The fund boost is also very well-timed, especially since tuition fees will need to be paid around June, when schools will be reopening,” Abad said.

However, Abad said that the pay increase for the President, Vice President, and Cabinet Secretaries will not be implemented until July 1, 2012. He added that the fourth tranche of SSL III will not cover individuals and groups engaged through job orders, contracts of service, and other similar agreements.(DBM/PIA)