The Social Security System (SSS) has reached out to legislators, requesting assistance in managing the impact of a scheduled increase in member contributions set for this year. During a press briefing at the Palace, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph De Claro emphasized the agency’s willingness to collaborate with lawmakers to mitigate the effects of the mandated hike on its members. De Claro suggested that instead of suspending the increase, a discussion on a potential subsidy program could be more beneficial for workers.
De Claro justified the upcoming increase, highlighting its necessity for funding essential services, including calamity loans. He noted that last year alone, the SSS disbursed approximately PHP9.8 billion in loans to areas affected by disasters. The increase, which will add around PHP51 billion to the SSS’s coffers, is crucial for sustaining these services.
Despite opposition from various groups, including former SSS President Rolando Macasaet and certain lawmakers who have called for the suspension of the hike, De Claro stressed that the increase is a requirement under Republic Act 11199, the Social Security Act of 2018. The law stipulates incremental increases, with the rate rising to 12 percent in 2019, 13 percent in 2021, and 14 percent in 2023, with the final increase scheduled for this year.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin also supported the scheduled increase, describing it as a well-considered decision based on actuarial studies. He cautioned against arbitrary interference in the operations of the SSS, suggesting that such actions could have detrimental effects. Bersamin also hinted at political motivations behind the calls to suspend the final increase, pointing out that former SSS President Rolando Macasaet, who is now a candidate, might be influencing the debate.