MAGNA CARTA FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS
How has the Magna Carta influenced the rights and responsibilities of public school teachers today?
Discuss its importance in shaping modern education and teacher’s roles in society.
The Magna Carta for Public School Teachers has played a crucial role in shaping modern
education and the roles of teachers in society. It has provided teachers with professional rights,
safeguards, and benefits, ensuring their well-being and professional development. By
recognizing the importance of education and the teaching profession, the law has contributed to
the improvement of the quality of education in the Philippines.
The Magna Carta for Public School Teachers, also known as Republic Act No. 4670, has had a
significant influence on the rights and responsibilities of public school teachers today. It was
enacted on June 18, 1966, with the aim of promoting and improving the social and economic
status of public school teachers, as well as their working conditions and career prospects.
Here are some key provisions of the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers:
1. Recruitment and Qualification: The law sets minimum educational qualifications for teacher-
applicants, ensuring that teachers have the necessary qualifications and training for their
positions.
2. Tenure of Office: The law provides stability of employment and security of tenure for teachers,
protecting them from arbitrary dismissal and ensuring that they can only be terminated for just
cause and after due process.
3. Hours of Work and Remuneration: Teachers engaged in actual classroom instruction are not
required to teach more than six hours a day, allowing them time for preparation and other work.
If necessary, teachers may be required to teach up to eight hours a day, with additional
compensation. The law also provides for additional compensation for co-curricular and out-of-
school activities.
4. Salaries and Benefits: The law establishes criteria for salaries that compare favorably with
other occupations requiring similar qualifications. It also provides for salary scales with regular
increments and a cost-of-living allowance to keep pace with inflation. Special hardship
allowances are provided for teachers working in difficult conditions.
5. Leave and Retirement Benefits: Teachers are entitled to study leave, sick leave, and retirement
benefits. Study leave allows teachers to pursue further education, and sick leave is granted for
health reasons. Upon retirement, teachers receive a salary increase and are entitled to
retirement benefits.
6. Teacher’s Organization: The law guarantees teachers the right to freely establish and join
organizations to further and defend their interests. National teachers’ organizations are also
consulted in the formulation of educational policies and professional standards.
