SSS calls on ‘generous’ partners to subsidize contributions of informal sector workers, OFWs

The Social Security System (SSS) has called on individuals and groups to subsidize the monthly contributions of select members, including those in the informal sector, on job order, and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

According to the agency, it has been reaching out and encouraging “generous” potential partners to subsidize the contribution payments of chosen members for at least six months.

These could include government agencies which can subsidize the contributions of job order workers as they are not covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

Also among prospective partners are private institutions or multinational firms which can shoulder contributions of self-employed informal sector workers or land-based OFWs who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Subsidizing their SSS contributions is the greatest gift that we can give to a fellow Filipino,” President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Regino said in an emailed statement.

“It will allow him to gain access to social security benefits which will serve as a cushion that they can rely on in times of emergencies and various contingencies,” he added.

Under the contribution subsidy program, the individuals or groups can serve as a coverage and collection partner through an online certification with undertaking or a memorandum of agreement (MOA).

They can then make the subsidy contributions in SSS branches with teller facilities or through an accredited collection partner.

“We want to provide SSS coverage to workers in the formal sector and land-based OFWs. These have the lowest social security coverage in our workforce, and they are among the most vulnerable sector in times of contingencies,” Regino said.

The SSS is mandated to promote social justice and provide protection to members and families against the hazards of disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death, and other contingencies resulting in loss of income or financial burden. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/RSJ, GMA News