Many senior citizens welcomed the start of December with relief as the Social Security System (SSS) started releasing the 13th month pay for pensioners on Monday, December 1, 2025, an annual benefit equal to one full month of their pension.

Jocelyn Lim, assistant branch head of SSS Dagupan, said the year-end payout is something many look forward to.

“It’s the time of the year na ‘yung mga SSS pensioners natin ay makatanggap ng kanilang bonus,” she said.

For pensioners like Dominga Cabillan, the additional cash comes at a crucial time. Their home was damaged when Super Typhoon #UwanPH hit, and she plans to use the money to buy materials needed for repairs.

“Wala pang bubong ‘yung bahay namin, kaya palagyan ko ng yero,” she said.

SSS said pensioners will receive their 13th month pay through the same channels where they normally get their monthly pension, via the Philippine Electronic Fund Transfer System, accredited banks, or cash payout outlets.

Those with a date of contingency from the 1st to the 15th received their benefit on December 1. Pensioners with a contingency date from the 16th to the 31st will receive their 13th month pay on December 4, along with their December pension.