Teacher Salary Grades in the Philippines Explained (Teacher I to Master Teacher)
DepEd teaching positions follow the government salary grade system: Teacher I starts at Salary Grade 11, Teacher II at SG 12, Teacher III at SG 13, and Master Teacher positions range higher. Pay increases come from salary standardization tranches, step increments earned through years of service, and promotion to a higher position.
How the salary grade system works
Every government position maps to a salary grade (SG) with eight step increments. Your actual pay depends on three things: your position's SG, your current step, and the latest Salary Standardization Law tranche in effect. Because tranches and amounts change through national budget laws, always verify current figures from official DBM circulars rather than memorized numbers.
The teaching career ladder
- Teacher I (SG 11) — entry position after passing ranking.
- Teacher II (SG 12) and Teacher III (SG 13) — reached through reclassification based on qualifications and performance.
- Master Teacher I–IV — higher grades for teachers who remain in the classroom while taking on instructional leadership.
Our promotion guide breaks down the requirements for each jump.
Step increments: the raise you earn by staying
Within the same position, you move one step for every three years of continuous satisfactory service, plus incentive step increments in specific cases. Keep your service records clean — gaps or unresolved DTR issues can complicate processing.
Beyond base pay
Teachers also receive chalk allowance (teaching supplies allowance), uniform allowance, mid-year and year-end bonuses, and the Performance-Based Bonus when qualified. Understanding the full package matters when doing personal budgeting or comparing career options.
Frequently asked questions
What salary grade is a newly hired DepEd teacher?
A newly hired Teacher I is at Salary Grade 11, Step 1, unless prior government service entitles them to a higher step.
How often do teachers get salary increases?
Through salary standardization tranches approved by law, step increments every three years of service, and promotions or reclassification.
Is the salary the same nationwide?
Base pay follows the national salary schedule, but some LGUs provide additional local allowances that vary by location.