SSS now covers informal sector

CEBU, Philippines - The Social Security System is expanding its coverage to the informal sector by encouraging them to join and be a member.

 In a recent AGIO-7 forum, Janice Caballes, SSS-Cebu Branch chief for Accounts & Monitoring Section, urged trisikad, habal-habal and motorcycle drivers, market vendors and those engaged in the direct selling business to be a member of SSS.

 “AlkanSSSya” is the new program of SSS that encourages the informal sector to register and activate their organization or association through “microsavings” wherein each member has to pay P10 per day or until it reaches P312.00 per month.

 Mario Corro, SSS-Cebu Branch manager, in the same forum said that the informal sector who became members of SSS can avail of the same benefits that workers in the private sector enjoy such as maternity, retirement, death and disability benefits.

 In Luzon and in the Capital Region, the said program has already attracted a total of 34 participating organizations that represents about 18,000 workers in the said area.

 Emilion de Quiros, Jr., SSS chief executive officer, in a press statement sent by the Philippine Information Agency-7 to The FREEMAN, said that “AlkanSSSya” is specifically designed for the informal sector to fit the way of life and to make savings for monthly SSS premiums affordable with only P10 per day.

SSS marks its 55th year this year with the theme “Sa SSS, Kinabukasang Pinagsikapan, Seguridad Maaasahan,” highlights the importance of regularly saving part of a worker’s income for social security protection to secure a bright future for them and their family.  (FREEMAN)