, they are referring to the updated pay schedule that applies to government employees this year.
Salary Grades in the Philippines: What You Need to Know
In the Philippines, government workers receive salaries based on a structured system. This system is called the salary grade table. It ensures that employees are paid fairly according to their job level. When people talk about salary grade 2024, they mean the updated salary schedule that shows how much government workers earn this year.
What Is a Salary Grade?
A salary grade (SG) is a number that represents the pay level for a government job. There are 33 salary grades in total:
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SG-1: The lowest level, usually for clerks, utility staff, or aides.
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SG-33: The highest, given only to the President.
Each grade is also divided into steps (Step 1 to Step 8). Steps give small salary increases over time, usually based on years of service or good performance.
Why It Matters
The salary grade system is important for several reasons:
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Fairness – Workers with the same grade and step get the same pay.
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Clarity – Employees can easily check their official salary.
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Growth – Promotions and step increases provide steady pay raises.
This makes government service attractive for those who value job stability.
Salary Grades by Job Level
Government jobs are grouped into different grades depending on the responsibility:
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SG-1 to SG-10: Entry-level and support jobs.
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SG-11 to SG-20: Professional jobs like teachers, nurses, and engineers.
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SG-21 to SG-29: Supervisory and management roles.
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SG-30 to SG-33: Top officials, including senators and the President.
This structure shows employees a clear path for career development.
Salary Standardization Law (SSL VI)
The government regularly updates salaries through the Salary Standardization Law (SSL). The latest version, SSL VI, started in 2024 and will continue until 2027. It introduces pay increases in four stages:
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January 2024
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January 2025
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January 2026
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January 2027
This ensures that salaries steadily increase each year.
Extra Benefits
Aside from basic salaries, government workers also enjoy allowances. Starting in 2025, employees will receive a ₱7,000 annual medical allowance, available to both permanent and contractual workers.
Differences in LGU Salaries
Local Government Units (LGUs) also follow the salary grade system, but pay may vary depending on their income class:
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1st class provinces and special cities – 100% of the standard rate
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Middle-class municipalities – 70–85%
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6th class municipalities – about 65%
This means two workers with the same grade could earn different amounts depending on where they are employed.
Gross Pay vs. Take-Home Pay
The salary grade chart shows gross salary, but employees receive less due to taxes. Under the TRAIN Law:
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Annual income up to ₱250,000 is tax-free.
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Higher earnings are taxed from 15% to 35%.
That’s why employees should always check both gross and net pay.
Why Employees Should Know Their Grade
Knowing your salary grade helps you:
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Confirm that your salary is correct.
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Plan your promotions and salary growth.
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Make better financial decisions.
It also promotes transparency in government service.
Final Thoughts
Salary grades play a big role in keeping government pay fair and organized. With the regular increases under SSL VI and additional benefits like the medical allowance, working in the public sector remains a secure and rewarding choice.
If you are already a government worker or planning to join, understanding your salary grade is the key to managing your career and income wisely.
