Section 17Sec./Art. 17

Transitory Provisions. - Within a period of one hundred eighty (180) days after the approval of this Act, the Board shall be constituted to start its operation.1aшphi1

All other government offices having functions similar to those of the Board shall then cease to perform such functions. These functions shall henceforth be deemed transferred to the Board.

This notwithstanding, the DECS shall maintain an office and staff to perform functions specified herein relative to its participation in the government textbook program.

Employees of the IMDC and the IMC who are not hired by the Board and/or who do not opt to remain with DECS or are laid off as a result of the implementation of this Act, within the transition period provided herein, shall be entitled to gratuity at the rate of one and one fourth (1 1/4) month's salary for every year of service in the government or a fraction thereof on the basis of the highest salary received, in addition to the retirement and/or gratuity, benefits or pensions under R.A. No. 6656 and other existing Retirement Laws. Unexpended funds of the IMDC and of the IMC shall revert to the Board, after reserving the amount necessary to pay the benefits of those separated or retired from the service.