Salary Grade (SG) is the standardised compensation system for all PHL government employees, ranging from SG-1 (lowest) to SG-33 (President of the Philippines).
Common reference points (Step 1, 2026 third tranche under the Salary Standardization Law, EO 64 s. 2024):
- SG-1: ~₱14,000/month (entry support roles)
- SG-11: ₱31,705/month (entry professional, fresh PRC passer typical)
- SG-15: ₱42,178/month (mid-tier government professional)
- SG-18: ₱53,818/month (senior professional)
- SG-24: ₱102,603/month (Director level)
- SG-27: ~₱148,000/month (Bureau Director)
- SG-29: ~₱185,000/month (Department Undersecretary)
- SG-33: ~₱440,000/month (President)
What it means for you:
- Government salary is transparent — you know exactly what each role pays
- Step (1-8 within each grade) reflects tenure within the role
- Annual increases are slow but predictable
- Significant non-cash benefits: pension, healthcare, security of tenure
- Lateral moves between agencies maintain SG
- Promotion typically 1-2 grades per move
Compared to private sector:
- Lower base salary at most levels
- Better benefits (pension, security, hours)
- Slower advancement
- More stable across economic cycles