Abstract. This study evaluated the perceptions of 200 public school teachers in the Talakag district of Bukidnon regarding the utilization of school Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) and their welfare and development. A descriptive-correlational design was employed to analyze the relationship between the perceived levels of MOOE utilization in areas including the School Improvement Plan, instructional materials, utilities, and school-based training, as well as how instructors view their own professional growth. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between MOOE utilization and teachers' welfare (Rho = 0.658, p = 0.022). High mean scores in school-based training and instructional supplies reflected that effective MOOE allocation enhanced teachers' professional growth and satisfaction. The findings emphasized the importance of strategic resource allocation in promoting educational outcomes and supported the need for ongoing evaluations to optimize MOOE usage. This research contributed valuable insights into the critical link between financial resource management and the overall effectiveness of teaching in the educational landscape.

Keywords: Financial management; MOOE utilization; Teachers’ welfare and development.