The Social Security System (SSS) on Tuesday stressed that the increase in contributions is “very important” for the sustainability of the fund as it appeals to members to be more understanding.
May Rose Francisco, SSS acting Media Affairs chief, said that the recent hike in contributions is a means for the agency to beef up finances for future use, which means better benefits for members.
At present, majority of the funding for the benefits that members are receiving came from contributions, including that of overseas Filipino workers.
Earlier, The Filipino Times reported a number of OFW groups and recruitment industry have expressed concern over the impending implementation of the draft implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 11199, under which SSS premium payment will be a condition for Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) issuance.
Susan Ople, head of the Blas F. Ople Policy Center (BOPC), said that the draft IRR is “flawed,” noting that the rules will make it difficult for OFW to acquire OECs.
Ople particularly questioned the IRR provision, which makes SSS premium payment as one of the conditions for OFWs to acquire employment certificate.
