Labor Chief Silvestre Bello is mulling on the exemption of newly hired Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from paying Social Security System (SSS) premiums.
In a press briefing, Bello has expressed his intent to modify the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 11199 or the Social Security Act.
Bello added that SSS should give new workers a chance to earn first before requiring them to pay instantly. He is suggesting a three-month allowance before any collection will be made.
“By that time, they are already earning could be considered and OFW. I already informed them of the legal contemplation: a worker, who has not been issued an OEC (overseas employment certificate) is not yet an OFW, and therefore cannot be covered by the compulsory coverage by the law,” Bello said.
Meanwhile, recruitment agencies criticize the new law requiring workers to pay SSS premium before the issuance of the OEC.
“I already informed them of the legal contemplation: a worker, who has not been issued an OEC is not yet an OFW, and therefore cannot be covered by the compulsory coverage by the law,” Bello explained.
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration or POEA has recommended the suspension of the implementation of the new law.
