Manila:The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the regularization of 179 part-time faculty positions at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila, along with the eligibility of the entire UP System for the 2024 Performance Based Bonus (PBB).

According to Philippines News Agency, DBM Acting Secretary Kim Robert de Leon announced these developments during his visit to UP Manila. He also stated that five faculty positions have been reclassified to full-time status, providing greater employment stability for UP Manila educators. The initiative aims to recognize the collective performance and contributions of UP personnel through the PBB.

De Leon assured that the fiscal year 2024 Performance-Based Bonus would be distributed before the end of the year, emphasizing the importance of supporting educators to secure a better future for students. During his visit, he toured the College of Medicine's Surgical Knowledge Intensive Learning Laboratory through Simulation (SKILLS) and the College of Nursing's Skills and Simulation Laboratory, which offer hands-on training with specialized equipment.

The College of Nursing's PHP45.8-million Skills and Simulation Laboratory includes high-fidelity manikins and training rooms accommodating 40 people each. Meanwhile, the College of Medicine's SKILLS facility can host 100 people, supporting cadaver-based procedural and surgical training with advanced equipment like endoscopic towers and digital anatomy dissection tables.

De Leon highlighted the need for investment in both modern facilities and support for educators, stating that quality education is essential for student success. UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee noted that government backing helps strengthen the university's education, research, and healthcare programs.

As the National Health Sciences Center, UP Manila significantly contributes to healthcare professional development through its academic programs, medical research, and services at the Philippine General Hospital. De Leon reiterated the initiative's alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to providing free, quality higher education and supporting public institutions, emphasizing the transformative potential of educational investment.