May 16 Declared as National Education Support Personnel Day, According to DepEd & CHED
The Department of Education and Commission on Higher Education declared May 16 of every year as a Special Working Day.
May 16 is now officially recognized as National Education Support Personnel Day after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12178 into law.
The special working holiday honors all individuals working in the education sector not only teachers but also non-teaching staff in both public and private schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions.
Under this new law, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) are tasked with leading the preparation and implementation of annual programs and activities to observe this special day.
These activities aim to celebrate the important role of education support personnel in shaping the nation’s future.
To ensure that the day is meaningful and widely observed, all government agencies, state-owned corporations, local government units, and private sector employers involved in education are encouraged to allow their staff to participate in the scheduled activities.
Participation can be done within their workplaces or other designated venues.
The law emphasizes that education is not only driven by teachers but also supported by many hardworking individuals such as administrative staff, librarians, maintenance workers, and more, who contribute to the smooth operation of schools and learning environments.
Republic Act 12178 was signed on April 15, 2025, and will be observed starting this year. It serves as a reminder to recognize and appreciate the contributions of everyone who helps keep the education system running from classrooms to offices.
‘‘To ensure the meaningful observance and celebration of this day, the heads of national government agencies and government-owned and/or -controlled corporations involved in education, local government units, and private sector employers involved in education are encouraged to allow their respective personnel to participate in any related activity to be held within the premises of their respective offices or establishments,’‘ the law read.