Since time immemorial, teachers have carried the weight of lesson plans, modules and meetings on their backs — often with little time to breathe. But this year, many are finally able to exhale.
In what is being hailed as a long-overdue win for teacher well-being, the Department of Education has released DepEd Order No. 009, series of 2025 — amending its policy to provide all teaching personnel a 30-day uninterrupted vacation free from school-related obligations. For countless educators across the country, this announcement has brought an overwhelming sense of relief and appreciation.
“This break is a well-deserved opportunity for our learners and teachers to relax after a long academic year,” said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara. “I hope they spend this time wisely, unwinding with their families and loved ones, and return to work energized for the new school year.”
The policy allows teachers to schedule their break flexibly between April 16 and June 1, 2025, whether continuously or in parts. But perhaps the most celebrated part of the revised order is its clarity — no performance evaluations, no required training and no school duties during the 30 days. Teachers may even choose to participate in summer training voluntarily, earning additional vacation service credits.
For Maria Jennica Sy, an Alternative Learning System teacher in Valenzuela, the news couldn’t have come at a better time.
“Malaking tulong po ang pagkakaroon ng 30-day uninterrupted vacation for teachers. Sa pamamagitan nito, nabibigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga guro na magpahinga at makasama ang kanilang pamilya ng walang iniintinding gawain pampaaralan po,” she said.
(The 30-day uninterrupted vacation for teachers is a big help. Through this, teachers are given the opportunity to rest and spend time with their families without having to worry about any school-related tasks.)
The policy extends to ALS teachers and educators handling Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education — groups that often operate outside the traditional school calendar and who in the past were unclear on their entitlements to breaks.
Marilou Demeterio, a teacher from Commonwealth High School Annex, shared the same enthusiasm.
“Helpful. Need talaga ng break para makapag recharge. Ang kagandahan noon ay flexible naman.”
(Helpful. A break is really needed to recharge. What’s nice about it is that it’s flexible.)
Flexibility is key. Teachers who wish to help during the May 2025 elections or participate in events like sports fests are allowed to do so, but participation remains voluntary. For the first time, the guidelines clearly protect teachers’ right to rest.
While school heads remain exempt from the 30-day vacation due to administrative duties, they continue to be entitled to vacation and sick leave credits during the same period.
The new policy reflects the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of teachers and promoting a more sustainable and compassionate work environment — one where recharging is not a luxury but a necessity.
For teachers like Sy and Demeterio, the new policy isn’t just about time off. It’s about recognition, respect and renewal. (AVS / PIA-NCR)
