The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has begun releasing funds for long-awaited salary adjustments. As of September 10, 2024, a total of P31.93 billion has been allocated to 257 departments and agencies, with another 58 agencies currently being processed.
This development follows the signing of Executive Order No. 64 by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on August 2nd, which officially approved the Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL VI) – a nationwide pay increase for all civilian government personnel.
“We are expediting the release of the budget to all agencies as quickly as possible,” said DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman. “This is something our government employees have been waiting for. We also urge department and agency heads to distribute the salary differential immediately, as the increase is retroactive to January 1st, 2024.”
The released funds have already benefitted various departments, including Congress, the Offices of the President and Vice President, the Department of Education, and several others (see full list provided by DBM).
Promoting Transparency with the SSL VI Dashboard
In line with transparency and good governance, Secretary Pangandaman also announced the launch of the SSL VI dashboard. This online tool provides real-time data on budget releases, allowing for easier monitoring and oversight.
“The dashboard reflects our commitment to transparency and open government,” explained Pangandaman. “We want to keep the public and our stakeholders informed and updated about our budget releases.”
The SSL VI dashboard is now live on the DBM’s official website. It’s important to note that the release of funds is based on individual agency requests submitted to the DBM, along with their respective salary adjustment computations and requirements.
This is a positive step towards improving the salaries of government workers in the Philippines. Stay tuned for further updates on the complete rollout of the SSL VI across all agencies.