GSIS implements law on timely release of benefits

CEBU, Philippines - Retirees no longer have to wait long before they can enjoy their benefits from the  Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

Effective July 15 this year, the agency has implemented timely release of retirement benefits as provided for in Republic Act 10154, otherwise known as the Act Requiring All Concerned Government Agencies to Ensure the Early Release of the Retirement Pay, Pensions, Gratuities and Other Benefits of  Retiring Government Employees.

The law was enacted on July 14, 2011 but GSIS was only advised of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) last June 28, 2013

The IRR was approved in January 30, 2013 yet and the Civil Service Commission then issued a memorandum circular to implement the IRR on March 25 this year.

RA 10154 was signed into law by President Benigno Aquino III to hasten the release of retirement benefits and gratuities of government workers retiring from the service.

 â€œIn as much as the GSIS has been advised of such IRR only in 28 June 2013, implementation therein shall start on 15 July 2013,” read the GSIS advisory.

The same policy shall apply for inactive members who died out of the service or active members who died in the service but who were not able to claim their retirement or separation benefits.

“Henceforth, the legal heirs are required to secure all the necessary clearances upon filing of claim with the GSIS effective July 15, 2013,” the GSIS advisory further stated.

Departments and agencies are mandated to comply strictly with the provisions of the said IRR before endorsing a retirement or separation claim of an employee with the GSIS.

Frontline personnel are likewise instructed not to accept application forms for retirement or separation benefits without the prescribed clearances upon filing of claim.

The new law requires all state agencies, the GSIS, HDMF and the DBM to release the retirement benefits within 30 days after the actual date of retirement of a government employee.

It likewise provides penalties for unjustified delays in the release of these benefits.

To ensure compliance of the 30-day prescribed period, the law orders retiring employees to submit their requirements to the concerned government agency at least 90 days before the effective date of their retirement.

The law shall be applicable both to applications for compulsory retirement, optional or early retirement as authorized by law.

RA 10154 covers all branches, agencies and/or instrumentalities of the government, including government-owned and/or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), but excluding personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). — (FREEMAN)