Membership FAQs

What is TDC?

• The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) is a national teachers’ organization in the Philippines that advocates for the rights, dignity, and welfare of Filipino educators, especially those in the public school system. It is issue-based, non-partisan, and independent. Established at the Philippine Normal University on April 8, 2006, TDC has reached out to teachers nationwide after its first year of operation. TDC is now at the forefront, battling for teachers’ rights and welfare in various arenas.

• Though very young, TDC has already earned a number of victories for teachers’ favorable work conditions, just compensation, protection, participation and empowerment. The countless accomplishments attest that TDC has been effectively representing teachers in their countless struggles.

• TDC initiatives demonstrate the utmost participation of the teachers to determine their status and conditions; and with such, teachers’ dignity will be rightfully regained. 

What does the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition stand for?

• TDC stands for “Dignity for Teachers.” It champions better salaries, humane working conditions, professional support, and teacher empowerment. It believes in constructive engagement with government while remaining critical when necessary.

Is TDC a union, a party, or an NGO?

• TDC is not a traditional labor union or a registered political party. It is a cause-oriented teachers’ advocacy group. While it participates in political discourse, it operates more like a coalition or civic organization than a union or NGO with foreign funding.

How is TDC different from other teacher organizations or unions?

Does TDC engage in strikes or disruptive protests?

• TDC advocates through peaceful, lawful, and creative means, including media campaigns, dialogues, petitions, and mobilizations. While it holds public actions when necessary, it avoids disruptive or illegal strikes that could endanger teachers' jobs.

How does TDC handle issues compared to militant or conservative groups?

• TDC balances its approach. It is more assertive than conservative groups, especially in calling out policy issues, but also less militant than traditional left-leaning unions. Its leadership believes in principled negotiation, not blind confrontation.

Who leads TDC?

Are the leaders of TDC active public school teachers?

• Yes. The current National Chairperson is Benjo Basas, a licensed professional teacher and veteran public school educator. Many officers are grassroots teachers from across the country, giving the coalition legitimacy and firsthand understanding of teacher issues.

Membership and Participation

Who may join TDC?

• TEACHERS. Those assigned in public and private schools from kindergarten to tertiary, permanent or contractual.

• ACADEMIC PERSONNEL AND SCHOOL LEADERS. Librarians, guidance counselors, education supervisors, and school administrators.

• EDUCATION WORKERS. School personnel or non-teaching employees/administrative staff.

• YOUTH AND STUDENTS. Students taking up education courses and dependents of teachers.

• EDUCATION ADVOCATES. Individuals and organizations involved in education advocacy.

• RETIRED EDUCATORS. Teachers and education workers who retired from their jobs but are willing to continue with their advocacy.

How can I join TDC?

• Step 1: Attend the online pre-membership seminar orientation; sign-up here.

• Step 2: Sign the online membership form according to the region where you belong. Prepare your PRC ID (if applicable) a photo of your signature, and your latest ID picture before proceeding to sign up.

• Step 3: Pay P50.00 lifetime membership contribution and P100.00 for the ID (a total of P150) via TDC Secretariat's official GCash account (No.0917 650 5902, Darlene M. Loro), bank deposit (Account name- Teachers' Dignity Coalition, Inc., SA# 000250891859 BDO SM North EDSA ) or any money transfer service. Only those with confirmed payment will be included in the official roster of membership. Please keep a photo/screenshot of the receipt or successful payment confirmation with the reference number.

• Step 4: Pay the organizational fee otherwise known as TDC members' monthly due (explained further below) amounting to P60 for the month of your membership. You may pay this together with the fees itemized in Step 2.

• Step 5: 

  • For new members: Upload the photo/screenshot of the receipt or successful payment confirmation with the reference number on this link to download your membership certificate.

  • For old members: Upload the photo/screenshot of the Gcash/bank transfer receipt with the reference number for the payment of monthly dues on this link to download your receipt.

• Step 6: Join the TDC Facebook group to receive regular updates about the organization's activities and accomplishments. Be actively engaged in the discussions!

Are there fees or dues required?

• Yes. As per National Council Resolution No. 02, s. 2023, the monthly dues of TDC members was increased from five pesos (php 5.00) to sixty pesos (php 60.00) effective January 2024 payable monthly, quarterly at P180 or annually at P720 (for new members, only  the initial monthly due for the month (or start of membership as stated in Step 3 of membership discussed above) is required, but quarterly or annual payment is appreciated) still through Gcash or bank transfer. Always keep a receipt of your payments and upload them in the applicable link provided in Step 4 of membership above.

What is the breakdown of the P60 monthly due?

• Php 10.00 - legal fund for maintenance of a legal counsel and strengthening of paralegal capacity of the organization;

• Php 10.00 - mutual aid and benefit system that will provide readily accessible financial assistance to its members;

• Php 10.00 – group insurance in partnership with a reputable company; and

• Php 30.00 – organizational maintenance and operations.

What are the benefits of becoming a member of TDC?

• Legal and advocacy support

• Access to free or low-cost seminars and webinars

• Participation in national consultations and campaigns

• Network of fellow educators and leaders

• Updates on policies, salary adjustments, and teacher rights

• Empowerment through representation and voice in policy issues

Is TDC active in policy making? What has been its accomplishments in this area?

• Yes. TDC has been involved in:

  • National campaigns for the upgrading of teacher salaries

  • Consultations with DepEd and Congress

  • Advocacy for deloading non-teaching tasks

  • Pushing for better implementation of the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers

Is TDC recognized by DepEd or other government agencies?

• Yes. TDC is regularly invited by DepEd to consultations and public dialogues. It is seen as a legitimate stakeholder in education policymaking.

Do lawmakers or national agencies consult TDC?

• Yes. TDC has participated in Senate and House hearings, as well as multi-agency forums on education, labor, and governance.