DBM starts release of P73.46 billion mid-year bonus

MANILA, Philippines — Government workers, including military and uniformed personnel, have started receiving their mid-year bonus under the P73.46-billion allocation, the Department of Budget and Management announced.

In a statement, the DBM said the release of mid-year bonuses began yesterday and will benefit over 1.9 million civilian, military and uniformed personnel across national government agencies.

Among those set to also receive the benefit are more than one million qualified Department of Education personnel nationwide, according to Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

He said the release covers around 900,000 public school teachers and over 100,000 non-teaching staff across the country, providing essential financial support ahead of the opening of school year 2026-2027.

“The early release of the mid-year bonus is part of our commitment to prioritize the welfare of those who directly shape the future of our students,” Angara said.

Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo, meanwhile, said the timely payout reflects the administration’s recognition of the hard work, sacrifice and dedication of government employees.

Under DBM Budget Circular No. 2017-2, the mid-year bonus is equivalent to one month’s basic pay and will be granted to personnel who meet the conditions, including those who have rendered at least four months of service from July 1 of the immediately preceding year to May 15.

Eligible workers must remain in government service as of May 15 and should have obtained at least a satisfactory performance rating.

The DBM added that the required service period covers actual services rendered while occupying regular, contractual or casual positions in the national and local governments, including paid leaves.

The mid-year bonus likewise extends to employees of local government units, although the release will depend on the approval of their respective Sanggunian and compliance with the conditions set under Budget Circular 2017-2.

Toledo said funds for the bonus had already been released at the start of the fiscal year to guarantee distribution. — Bella Cariaso