Salary Grade (SG) 25 is one of the higher compensation levels in the Philippine government’s Salary Standardization system. Employees occupying Salary Grade 25 positions are typically senior executives, bureau directors, regional directors, senior technical specialists, and other high-ranking officials entrusted with substantial leadership, policy-making, and administrative responsibilities.
Understanding Salary Grade 25 is important for current government employees seeking career advancement, professionals planning to enter public service, and individuals researching compensation under the Philippine government’s Salary Standardization Law. This guide explains the official Salary Grade 25 salary schedule, common positions, qualifications, benefits, and career progression.
Quick Answer
Salary Grade 25 is a high-level government salary classification under the Philippine Salary Standardization Law. Effective 2026 (Third Tranche under Executive Order No. 64), employees under Salary Grade 25 receive a monthly basic salary ranging from ₱116,643 (Step 1) to ₱130,073 (Step 8), depending on their salary step. In addition to the basic salary, eligible employees receive various government benefits, allowances, bonuses, and retirement privileges based on applicable laws and regulations.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official government guidance. Salary schedules, allowances, and compensation policies may change through future legislation or executive issuances. Always verify current information with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Key Takeaways
- Salary Grade 25 is among the highest regular salary grades in the Philippine government.
- The 2026 Salary Grade 25 monthly basic salary ranges from ₱116,643 to ₱130,073.
- Actual salary depends on the employee’s assigned salary step.
- Employees also receive government-mandated allowances, bonuses, and benefits.
- SG 25 positions usually involve executive leadership, policy implementation, and management of large organizations.
- Promotion to SG 25 generally requires extensive education, experience, and Civil Service eligibility.
TL;DR
If you’re aiming for a senior executive position in the Philippine government, Salary Grade 25 offers a competitive compensation package with a monthly salary exceeding ₱116,000, plus numerous government benefits. Positions at this level require advanced professional qualifications, significant management experience, and leadership capabilities.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Grade | 25 |
| Salary Range (2026) | ₱116,643 – ₱130,073 |
| Salary Steps | 8 |
| Government Sector | National Government, GOCCs, LGUs (where applicable) |
| Position Level | Executive / Senior Management |
| Legal Basis | Executive Order No. 601 (Third Tranche) |
What Is Salary Grade 25?
Salary Grade 25 is a compensation level under the Philippine government’s Salary Standardization Law that applies to senior executives, directors, and highly specialized professionals occupying leadership positions in government agencies.
Detailed Explanation
The Philippine government uses a standardized compensation system to ensure consistency and fairness across agencies. Every plantilla position is assigned a Salary Grade, while each employee progresses through Salary Steps based on longevity, performance, and applicable government rules.
Salary Grade 25 belongs to the upper management levels of government service. Employees occupying SG 25 positions are generally responsible for:
- Strategic planning
- Organizational leadership
- National or regional program management
- Policy implementation
- Budget administration
- Human resource supervision
- Performance management
- Public service delivery
Unlike entry-level positions, SG 25 roles demand substantial decision-making authority and accountability.
Examples of Responsibilities
An SG 25 official may:
- Lead an entire bureau or regional office.
- Formulate agency-wide policies.
- Supervise hundreds of government personnel.
- Manage multi-million-peso government programs.
- Represent the agency during national conferences.
- Coordinate with Cabinet officials and local governments.
Key Point
Salary Grade 25 represents senior executive leadership within the Philippine bureaucracy.
Salary Grade 25 Salary Table (2026)
Direct Answer
Under the Third Tranche of Executive Order No. 64, the official monthly basic salaries for Salary Grade 25 are:
| Salary Step | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | ₱116,643 |
| Step 2 | ₱118,469 |
| Step 3 | ₱120,326 |
| Step 4 | ₱122,212 |
| Step 5 | ₱124,131 |
| Step 6 | ₱126, 079 |
| Step 7 | ₱128,061 |
| Step 8 | ₱130,073 |
Understanding Salary Steps
Each Salary Grade consists of eight salary steps.
Employees typically begin at Step 1 unless otherwise authorized by existing government compensation policies. Advancement through the steps depends on factors such as:
- Length of service
- Satisfactory performance
- Existing DBM compensation rules
- Applicable Civil Service policies
Salary Growth
Moving from Step 1 to Step 8 increases the monthly basic salary by more than ₱13,000, excluding bonuses and allowances.
Key Point
Salary progression occurs within the same Salary Grade through salary step increments before promotion to a higher Salary Grade.
Common Salary Grade 25 Positions
Salary Grade 25 commonly includes senior executive and highly specialized government positions with extensive managerial and administrative responsibilities.
Examples of SG 25 Positions
Although actual salary grades depend on the approved staffing pattern of each government agency, positions commonly classified under Salary Grade 25 include:
- Bureau Director
- Regional Director
- Assistant Secretary (selected agencies)
- Executive Director
- Senior Technical Director
- Chief Administrative Officer (selected agencies)
- Senior Planning Director
- Senior Financial Management Executive
- Senior Information Technology Executive
- Senior Legal Executive
Some constitutional offices, state universities, government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), and local government units may implement different compensation structures depending on applicable laws.
Qualifications for Salary Grade 25 Positions
Most Salary Grade 25 positions require advanced education, extensive professional experience, Civil Service eligibility, and proven executive leadership.
Typical Requirements
Although qualifications vary among agencies, candidates generally need:
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree (often preferred)
- Doctorate for academic or highly technical positions
Experience
- Several years of supervisory experience
- Executive or managerial experience
- Extensive technical expertise
Eligibility
Depending on the position:
- Career Service Professional Eligibility
- CES Eligibility
- RA 1080 Eligibility (for licensed professionals)
- Other position-specific eligibility
Training
Applicants are commonly expected to complete advanced management and leadership training programs.
Duties and Responsibilities
Employees holding Salary Grade 25 positions oversee major government programs, supervise large organizations, manage budgets, formulate policies, and ensure efficient public service delivery.
Common Responsibilities
- Agency planning
- Budget preparation
- Program implementation
- Strategic leadership
- Policy formulation
- Human resource management
- Procurement oversight
- Performance evaluation
- Stakeholder coordination
- Risk management
- Compliance monitoring
Because of these responsibilities, SG 25 officials are expected to demonstrate high standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
Government Benefits and Allowances
Employees occupying Salary Grade 25 positions are generally entitled to the same statutory compensation benefits provided to qualified government personnel, in addition to their monthly basic salary. Eligibility and the amount received depend on applicable laws, DBM issuances, and agency-specific policies.
Common Benefits
In addition to the monthly basic salary, SG 25 employees may receive:
- Mid-Year Bonus
- Year-End Bonus
- Cash Gift
- Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (PERA), where applicable
- Clothing/Uniform Allowance
- Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI)
- Performance-Based Bonus (PBB), subject to eligibility and agency performance
- Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) Incentive, if applicable
- Loyalty Award
- Step Increment based on qualifying service and performance
Mandatory Government Benefits
Qualified employees are also covered by:
- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)
- PhilHealth
- Pag-IBIG Fund (where applicable)
- Retirement benefits
- Leave benefits
- Terminal leave benefits
- Life insurance
- Disability benefits
- Survivorship benefits
Key Point Summary
The total compensation package for an SG 25 employee is significantly higher than the published monthly salary because it also includes government-mandated bonuses, incentives, insurance, and retirement benefits.
Bonuses Received by Salary Grade 25 Employees
Government employees under Salary Grade 25 may receive several annual bonuses and incentives if they meet the eligibility requirements prescribed by law and government regulations.
Typical Annual Bonuses
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Mid-Year Bonus | Equivalent to one month’s basic salary, subject to eligibility requirements |
| Year-End Bonus | Granted to qualified government employees before year-end |
| Cash Gift | Fixed amount authorized under the annual General Appropriations Act |
| Performance-Based Bonus | Depends on agency and individual performance |
| Productivity Enhancement Incentive | Granted subject to government authorization |
| CNA Incentive | Available to qualified employees covered by a Collective Negotiation Agreement |
Important Note
The amount and availability of bonuses may change through future legislation, executive issuances, or DBM budget circulars.
Career Progression Beyond Salary Grade 25
Employees in Salary Grade 25 may advance to higher executive positions such as Salary Grade 26 and above, depending on organizational structure, qualifications, vacancies, and merit-based promotion.
Typical Career Path
| Career Stage | Salary Grade |
|---|---|
| Division Chief | SG 24 |
| Bureau/Regional Director | SG 25 |
| Assistant Secretary or Equivalent | SG 26 |
| Undersecretary or Equivalent | SG 27–28 |
| Secretary or Agency Head | Higher Executive Levels |
Promotion depends on:
- Availability of plantilla positions
- Merit and fitness
- Educational qualifications
- Executive leadership
- Performance ratings
- Civil Service rules
Key Point Summary
Salary Grade 25 is often viewed as a gateway to top executive leadership positions in the Philippine government.
Salary Grade 25 vs. Salary Grade 24 vs. Salary Grade 26
Salary Grade 25 sits between SG 24 and SG 26 in the government’s compensation hierarchy, offering higher compensation and broader leadership responsibilities than SG 24 while remaining below SG 26 executive positions.
| Feature | SG 24 | SG 25 | SG 26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leadership Level | Senior Management | Executive Management | Higher Executive |
| Scope of Responsibility | Division/Bureau | Bureau/Regional | National Executive |
| Salary | Lower | Higher | Highest among the three |
| Decision-Making | High | Very High | Executive-Level |
| Policy Influence | Significant | Extensive | Agency-Wide |
Key Point Summary
Promotion from SG 24 to SG 25 represents a major advancement in both compensation and executive responsibility.
Common Mistakes
Professionals aspiring to Salary Grade 25 positions often make avoidable career mistakes, including:
- Focusing only on salary instead of leadership experience.
- Neglecting management and executive training.
- Overlooking Civil Service eligibility requirements.
- Failing to build a strong performance record.
- Ignoring succession planning opportunities.
- Applying without meeting minimum qualification standards.
- Assuming all agencies classify similar positions under the same salary grade.
Avoiding these pitfalls can improve long-term promotion prospects.
Best Practices
Employees seeking promotion to Salary Grade 25 should consider the following:
- Pursue postgraduate education when relevant.
- Maintain consistently high performance ratings.
- Complete executive and leadership development programs.
- Gain experience managing large teams and budgets.
- Strengthen communication and policy development skills.
- Build expertise in your agency’s core functions.
- Stay updated on Civil Service Commission and DBM policies.
Beginner Tips
If you are starting a government career:
- Understand how the Salary Grade system works.
- Learn the difference between Salary Grades and Salary Steps.
- Build technical competence before pursuing management positions.
- Develop leadership skills early in your career.
- Keep records of training, awards, and accomplishments for future promotions.
Expert Tips
Experienced government professionals aiming for SG 25 can benefit from:
- Taking on agency-wide strategic projects.
- Leading organizational transformation initiatives.
- Completing executive leadership programs.
- Mentoring future leaders.
- Developing expertise in governance, budgeting, and policy implementation.
- Building a strong record of measurable organizational achievements.
People Also Ask
Is Salary Grade 25 considered a high-ranking government position?
Yes. Salary Grade 25 is generally assigned to senior executives, bureau directors, regional directors, and other officials with substantial leadership responsibilities.
How many salary steps are included in Salary Grade 25?
Salary Grade 25 consists of eight salary steps, with compensation increasing from Step 1 through Step 8 based on applicable government rules.
Can employees move to a higher salary without promotion?
Yes. Qualified employees may receive salary step increments while remaining within Salary Grade 25, subject to Civil Service and DBM regulations.
Do all government agencies use Salary Grade 25?
Most national government agencies follow the Salary Standardization Law. However, certain GOCCs, constitutional offices, and institutions with separate compensation frameworks may have different pay structures.
Is Salary Grade 25 the highest salary grade?
No. The Philippine government’s Salary Grade system extends beyond Salary Grade 25. Higher executive positions may be classified under Salary Grades 26 to 33.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly salary of Salary Grade 25 in 2026?
The official monthly basic salary ranges from ₱116,643 (Step 1) to ₱130,073 (Step 8), excluding bonuses and allowances.
Who qualifies for Salary Grade 25 positions?
Qualification depends on the specific position but generally includes advanced education, extensive supervisory or executive experience, Civil Service eligibility, and leadership capability.
Does Salary Grade 25 include bonuses?
Yes. Qualified employees may receive government-authorized bonuses and incentives, including the Mid-Year Bonus, Year-End Bonus, Performance-Based Bonus, Productivity Enhancement Incentive, and other benefits, subject to applicable rules.
Can a newly hired employee start at Step 8?
Generally, no. Most newly appointed employees begin at Step 1 unless a higher salary step is authorized under existing compensation policies.
Are SG 25 employees eligible for retirement benefits?
Yes. Qualified employees are covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) retirement program and other statutory retirement benefits.
Final Verdict
Salary Grade 25 represents one of the highest regular compensation levels in the Philippine government’s career service. It offers an attractive salary, comprehensive government benefits, and opportunities to influence public policy and organizational performance.
While the compensation is substantial, positions under Salary Grade 25 demand extensive professional experience, executive leadership, sound judgment, and a demonstrated commitment to public service. Individuals aspiring to reach this level should focus not only on meeting qualification standards but also on developing the leadership competencies necessary to manage complex government programs effectively.
Related Topics
To learn more about navigating your career in the Philippine government, explore our deep-dive guides:
- How Government Salary Grades and Steps Work in the Philippines
- Salary Grade 19 Philippines 2026: How Much Do SG 19 Employees Earn?
- Government Jobs in the Philippines 2026: Complete Job Search Guide
- How to Apply for Government Jobs in the Philippines: Step-by-Step Guide
- Salary Grade 24 Philippines 2026: Salary & Benefits
- Salary Grade 11 Philippines 2026: Complete Guide
- Salary Grade 12 Philippines 2026: Salary, Positions & Benefits
- Salary Grade 13 Philippines 2026: Complete Salary & Positions Guide
Official References
- Department of Budget and Management (DBM). National Budget Circular No. 601 – Implementation of the Third Tranche Compensation Adjustment for Civilian Government Personnel pursuant to Executive Order No. 64, s. 2024.
- Executive Order No. 64, s. 2024. Modifying the Salary Schedule for Civilian Government Personnel and Authorizing the Grant of Additional Benefits.
- Civil Service Commission (CSC). Position Qualification Standards and Civil Service eligibility policies.
- Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. Executive Orders, laws, and official government issuances relating to the Salary Standardization Law.
- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Official information on retirement, insurance, and employee benefits.
- PhilHealth. Official guidelines on the National Health Insurance Program for government employees.
- Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund). Official membership, savings, and housing benefit information.
Disclaimer
This guide is intended for informational purposes only and is based on official government issuances available at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, salary schedules, qualification standards, benefits, and implementing rules may change through subsequent laws, executive orders, DBM circulars, CSC issuances, or other government regulations.
Readers should always consult the latest official publications of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Civil Service Commission (CSC), and the Official Gazette for the most current and authoritative information.