The Philippine government continues its efforts to enhance government employees’ wages through the Salary Standardization Law of 2019 (Republic Act 11466). This program ensures fair and gradual salary increases over several years. The Second Tranche, set to take effect on March 1, 2025, will introduce updated salary scales across various government positions, benefiting employees across different service levels.
This new phase of SSL VI is expected to benefit over 1.7 million government employees, including teachers, healthcare workers, administrative staff, and uniformed personnel. Notably, salary increases will vary by position, ensuring that employees in lower salary grades receive higher percentage increases to help bridge wage gaps.
Updates to Salaries and Allowances
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Law Implemented | Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL VI) |
| Signed By | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. |
| Implementation Period | 2025 – 2028 |
| Second Tranche Effective Date | March 1, 2025 |
| Main Goal | Gradual salary increases for government employees |
| Exclusions | Military and uniformed personnel |
| Official Site | www.dbm.gov.ph |
Overview of the Salary Adjustment Program
The Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL VI) is a four-year initiative aimed at ensuring fair and competitive pay for government workers. Implemented in four tranches, this structured program prevents fiscal strain while ensuring continuous wage growth.
Implementation Timeline
| Tranche | Effective Date |
| First Tranche | March 1, 2025 |
| Second Tranche | March 1, 2026 |
| Third Tranche | March 1, 2027 |
| Fourth Tranche | March 1, 2028 |
By gradually rolling out salary increases, the government ensures financial sustainability while improving compensation for public workers.
Revised Pay Scale for the Second Tranche
The Second Tranche introduces incremental salary adjustments for civilian government employees. Below are the updated salary figures for selected salary grades:
| Salary Grade (SG) | 2025 Monthly Salary | 2026 Monthly Salary | Increase (%) |
| SG 1 | ₱13,000 | ₱13,780 | 6.00% |
| SG 5 | ₱16,200 | ₱17,170 | 6.00% |
| SG 10 | ₱20,580 | ₱21,820 | 6.03% |
| SG 20 | ₱53,290 | ₱56,280 | 5.62% |
| SG 30 | ₱184,190 | ₱192,480 | 4.50% |
Average Increase in 2nd Tranche of SSL VI
| Position Category | Tranche 1 Avg. Increase (%) | Tranche 2 Avg. Increase (%) |
| Sub-Professional (SG 1-10) | 4.2% | 4.3% |
| Professional (SG 11-24) | 4.88% | 4.67% |
| Managerial (SG 25-28) | 4.34% | 4.90% |
| Executives (SG 29-31) | 3.42% | 4.67% |
| Top Leaders (SG 32-33) | 2.38% | 4.67% |
Who is Covered under SSL VI?
The Second Tranche applies to:
- Civilian government employees in the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.
- Constitutional offices, including the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Office of the Ombudsman.
- Employees of Local Government Units (LGUs) and Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), provided they are not covered by separate laws.
Note: Military and uniformed personnel have separate salary adjustment mechanisms and are not included under SSL VI.
Additional Benefits Beyond Basic Salary
Alongside salary increases, the Second Tranche introduces extra incentives and allowances to further support government employees:
- ₱7,000 Annual Medical Allowance – Covers medical expenses and healthcare services.
- Performance-Based Bonuses (PBB) – Incentives for employees who meet or exceed performance goals.
- ₱7,000 Annual Uniform/Clothing Allowance – Helps employees purchase professional attire.
These benefits complement salary increases, ensuring well-rounded support for government workers.
Fact Check: Debunking Misconceptions
Claim: All government employees will receive a 23.24% salary increase in 2025.
Fact: False. The 23.24% increase was part of Tranche 4 (2025). The Second Tranche (2026) adjustments range between 4% and 8%, depending on salary grade.
Claim: SSL tranches will be completed by 2025.
Fact: Incorrect. The SSL program runs until 2028, with salary adjustments scheduled through four tranches.
Claim: SSL VI benefits only high-ranking officials.
Fact: False. SSL VI ensures equitable salary adjustments across all levels, prioritizing higher percentage increases for lower salary grades to promote fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who benefits from SSL VI?
SSL VI covers civilian government employees, excluding military and uniformed personnel.
2. When does the Second Tranche take effect?
The Second Tranche of SSL VI takes effect on March 1, 2025.
3. How are salary increases determined?
Salaries are adjusted based on Salary Grade (SG) and Step, with increases phased over four tranches from 2025 to 2028.
4. Will LGU employees receive salary increases?
Yes, but salary adjustments for LGUs depend on their financial capacity to implement SSL VI.
5. Where can I find more details about SSL VI?
Visit the official Department of Budget and Management (DBM) website at www.dbm.gov.ph.
The Second Tranche of SSL VI marks another significant step in improving government employees’ compensation. With structured salary increases, performance incentives, and healthcare benefits, the program ensures fair pay and financial stability for public sector workers.
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