How Much Is NBI Agent Salary?
If you’ve ever considered joining the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines, one of your first questions might be: How much does an NBI agent earn? Beyond the prestige of serving in a respected law enforcement agency, you’ll also want to know about the financial stability, benefits, and opportunities that come with the role.
This guide breaks down the salary of NBI agents, the allowances they receive, and the requirements to become part of the Bureau. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect financially if you plan to pursue this career path.
NBI Agent Ranks And Salary 2025
As of 2025, NBI agents’ salaries are tied to the Salary Standardization Law (SSL) for government employees. Here is the current salary table for investigative positions and senior leadership:
Position | Salary Grade | Base Pay (Monthly) |
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Investigation Agent III | SG 22 | ₱74,836 |
Senior Agent | SG 23 | ₱83,659 |
Supervising Agent | SG 24 | ₱94,134 |
Head Agent | SG 25 | ₱107,208 |
Assistant Regional Director | SG 26 | ₱121,146 |
Regional Director | SG 27 | ₱136,893 |
Assistant Director | SG 28 | ₱154,320 |
Deputy Director | SG 29 | ₱173,962 |
NBI Director | SG 30 | ₱196,199 |
Note: These figures reflect base pay only. Actual take-home pay is higher when allowances, hazard pay, and bonuses are added.
This means that even at the entry investigative level, you’ll earn nearly ₱75,000 per month, which places NBI agents among the highest-paid law enforcement officers in the country.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to base salary, NBI agents are entitled to several government-mandated allowances and benefits, including:
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Hazard Pay – compensation for the risks associated with law enforcement work
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Longevity Pay – increases with years of service
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Representation and Transportation Allowances (RATA) – for higher-ranking officials
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13th Month Pay and Mid-Year Bonus – standard for government employees
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GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Coverage
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Retirement Benefits
When combined, these allowances and benefits can raise an agent’s monthly compensation by 15–25% on top of the base salary.
Who is Qualified?
If you’re planning to pursue a career in the NBI, you’ll need to monitor NBI Job Vacancies, which are announced through official channels whenever the Bureau opens recruitment. Here’s what to expect:
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Qualifications
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Must be a Filipino citizen
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Between 25 and 35 years old
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At least 5’5” tall (male) or 5’3” (female)
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Of good moral character, physically and mentally fit
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Must be either a lawyer or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
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Application Process
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Submit your application through the NBI Academy when recruitment opens.
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Pass a series of examinations and background checks.
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Complete a rigorous training program before official deployment.
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Factors Influencing Salary
Several factors can influence an NBI agent’s salary:
- Educational Background: Agents with advanced degrees or specialized certifications may qualify for higher pay grades.
- Experience: Length of service is a key determinant of salary increments.
- Position and Rank: Higher ranks correspond to greater responsibilities and higher compensation.
- Special Assignments: Involvement in high-stakes or specialized cases may result in additional allowances.
Understanding the Role of an NBI Agent
NBI agents are highly trained law enforcement professionals tasked with investigating complex crimes, including cybercrime, corruption, organized crime, and high-profile cases. Their role is comparable to that of the FBI in the United States, and because of this, they undergo strict qualifications and screening.
Since their work is sensitive and often high-risk, their salary and benefits package reflect both the demands and responsibilities of the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
The salary of an NBI agent reflects the importance and sensitivity of their role in law enforcement. As of 2025, an Investigation Agent III receives a base salary of ₱74,836 per month, with the scale rising to ₱196,199 for the NBI Director. On top of the base pay, allowances, hazard pay, and government-mandated benefits provide additional financial security.
These figures place NBI agents among the highest-paid law enforcement professionals in the country, highlighting both the responsibility and the prestige that come with the position.