Laoag City: The Social Security System (SSS) has issued show-cause orders to at least five employers in this city who have been delinquent in paying the contributions of their employees. In a media interview, Richard Raralio, branch manager of SSS-Laoag City, stated that these establishments have been given 15 days to comply with the requirements as prescribed under Republic Act (RA) 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018.

According to Philippines News Agency, the operation targets businesses, mostly based in this city and nearby San Nicolas town, suspected of violating SSS regulations. These violations include non-registration, failure to report employees, non-production of records, and non-remittance of employee contributions. The five businesses identified as suspected violators this month are two pharmacies, a photography studio, a restaurant, and a hardware store.

As part of the ongoing campaign to protect the rights and welfare of employees, SSS personnel have been pursuing delinquent employers across the country. The program, dubbed "Run After Contribution Evaders" (RACE), is an integral component of the SSS's efforts to ensure that private employers fully adhere to their responsibilities under RA 11199.

Raralio emphasized the importance of prioritizing accurate and timely reporting and remittance of employee contributions to avoid delinquency. He urged all employers to update their records with the SSS and settle their dues promptly, warning that failure to comply with the SSS law carries penalties, including fines and imprisonment ranging from six months and one day to 10 years.