MANILA: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has sanctioned the earlier release of year-end bonuses and cash gifts for government employees, a move aimed at enhancing morale and efficiency within the public sector. This resolution is outlined in Budget Circular 2024-3, issued by DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, which facilitates the prompt disbursement of these benefits.
According to Philippines News Agency, the newly issued circular amends the previous guidelines under Budget Circular 2016-4, specifying that government workers will now receive a year-end bonus equivalent to one month of their basic pay as of October 31, along with a PHP5,000 cash gift. These benefits are to be distributed with the first agency payroll for November, subject to certain conditions. The amendment addresses previous delays in the disbursement of bonuses, which Secretary Pangandaman noted have negatively impacted employee morale, motivation, and job satisfaction.
The circular emphasizes that streamlining the payroll pr
ocesses within government agencies will help mitigate both internal and external delays in benefit payments. This, in turn, is expected to foster productivity and efficiency, ensuring timely distribution of the bonuses and cash gifts. Historically, these year-end benefits have been disbursed no earlier than November 15 for eligible government employees.
Budget Circular No. 2024-3, which was released to the public on Friday, is effective immediately, marking a significant shift in the timeline for year-end benefits for government personnel.