In the Philippines, the President is democratically elected for a single six-year term by direct vote from the people. Once elected, the President cannot be re-elected for a consecutive term. The official term of the President commences on the 30th of June, immediately following the election.
The President of the Philippines is the highest-ranking official in the country and serves as the head of state and head of government. As such, the President has numerous roles and responsibilities, including leading the executive branch of the government, implementing policies, representing the country in international relations, and serving as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
The President plays a crucial role in leading the country and making important decisions for the betterment of its citizens.
But what about the salary of the President? How much does he or she earn?
Under the Salary Standardization Law V (4th Tranche) the monthly salary of the President is Php 419,144 up to P431,718 which is equivalent to around $7,700-$8,000. The President has a salary grade of 33. Refer to the table below:
| 2020 Salary (First tranche) | ₱395,858 |
| 2021 Salary (Second tranche) | ₱403,620 |
| 2022 Salary (Third tranche) | ₱411,382 |
| 2023 Salary (Fourth tranche) | ₱419,144 |
It’s worth noting that the President has a lot of responsibilities and duties, and the salary is just a small fraction of what comes with the position. The President’s job is not just about making decisions and leading the country, but also about serving the people and making sure that the government is working towards the common good of the Filipino people.
In addition to their salary, the President also receives other benefits such as travel expenses, representation allowances, and other perks that come with the position.
Salary of Other Top Government Officials
The salaries of top government officials in the Philippines reflect their crucial roles in the country’s governance and development. These officials are tasked with making significant decisions and policies that can affect the lives of millions of Filipinos. Despite the complexities and challenges of their jobs, they receive salaries that are appropriate for their responsibilities, experience, and qualifications.
Refer to the table below:
| Position | Salary Grade | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary |
| Vice President | 32 | 331,954 | 381,748 |
| Senate President | 32 | 331,954 | 381,748 |
| Speaker of the House of Representatives | 32 | 331,954 | 381,748 |
| Chief Justice of the Supreme Court | 32 | 331,954 | 381,748 |
| Senator | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Congressman/ Representative | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Supreme Court Associate Justice | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Constitutional Commission Chairman | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Department Secretary | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Executive Secretary | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Solicitor General | 31 | 278,434 | 318,806 |
| Constitutional Commission Commissioner | 30 | 189,199 | 211,902 |
| Department Undersecretary | 30 | 189,199 | 211,902 |
Qualifications to become the President of the Philippines
The eligibility criteria for individuals aspiring to hold the Presidential office are explicitly stated in Article VII, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution. The prospective candidate must be a natural-born Filipino, a registered voter, able to read and write, at least 40 years of age on the day of the election, and must have been a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years before the scheduled election.
These qualifications aim to ensure that only those who meet the established standards of citizenship, literacy, and residency are eligible to hold the highest office in the country.
Conclusion
Overall, being the President of the Philippines is not just a job, but a calling to serve the country and its people. The salary may not be the highest, but the responsibility that comes with the position is immeasurable.