La union: The Social Security System is encouraging beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to enroll in the AlkanSSSya program to gain social security protection.
According to Philippines News Agency, the SSS is collaborating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to promote social security coverage among 4Ps beneficiaries by encouraging them to become active SSS members. Christian Andrew Rillorta, SSS North Luzon 1 Division corporate communications officer, stated that the pilot implementation of the 4Ps-AlkanSSSya program has been launched with the 4Ps United Association in Barangay Tabtabungao, Rosario, La Union. This initiative offers a convenient option for beneficiaries to save for their monthly SSS contributions.
In a press release, Roderick Andrada, head of the SSS Agoo Branch, emphasized that the partnership between SSS and DSWD aims to extend social security coverage to 4Ps beneficiaries through a micro-savings scheme. This scheme enables beneficiaries to gradually set aside funds for their monthly contributions, thereby providing a financial safety net. Andrada highlighted that many 4Ps beneficiaries currently lack formal insurance coverage, and the AlkanSSSya system will help vulnerable families qualify for social security benefits during unforeseen events.
Participants will be registered as self-employed SSS members, with a minimum monthly contribution of PHP760. Andrada underscored the importance of bringing SSS services closer to those in need, ensuring that 4Ps beneficiaries are not just recipients of short-term aid but also protected in the long term. He expressed hope that the pilot implementation would benefit the local community and serve as a model for nationwide expansion.
Under this partnership, millions of 4Ps beneficiaries are anticipated to gain access to various SSS benefits, including sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death, and funeral benefits, along with loan programs.
Meanwhile, the SSS is extending its partnerships with government agencies to provide social security coverage to job order (JO) and contract of service (COS) workers. A recent partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-Cordillera Administrative Region (TESDA-CAR) will cover 60 JO and COS workers through the KaSSSangga Collect Program.
Normita Cruz, SSS Vice President for Luzon North 1 Division, stated that this collaboration allows JO and COS workers, who are often excluded from traditional employment benefits, to enjoy social security protection. Cruz encourages TESDA employees with prior private sector experience to continue paying SSS contributions as voluntary members, potentially qualifying them for retirement benefits from both the SSS and the Government Service Insurance System.
