P-Noy approves P10,000 bonus for SSS officials, employees

MANILA, Philippines – President Aquino announced the approval of the P10,000 anniversary bonus for Social Security System (SSS) officials and employees because of their “sterling performance” that resulted in higher revenues for the agency.

During the 55th anniversary celebration of the SSS in Quezon City yesterday, the President said he did not hesitate to sign the bonus that was released by Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad on Aug. 31.

The President said the modest amount could not equal their perseverance but asked them to consider it as “token of gratitude” for their untiring service to the people.

“Trust that as long as you cooperate in treading the straight path, every effort you exert in our jobs, every step we take in effecting change, every sacrifice we choose to do now, we will reap together and also with the next generation,” Aquino said.

The President also lauded the SSS for increasing its earnings and serving more members.

In 2011 the net earnings of the SSS reached P25.5 billion, which was 11.8 percent higher than the P22.8 billion net income in 2010.

Its investment income last year of P30 billion is also 7.1 percent higher than the P28 billion posted in 2010.

Aquino also noted that due to the “transactional online services” the state-run pension fund for private employees was able to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The result, Aquino said, was a 68 percent increase in the number of members and employers that enrolled with the agency through its online services from January to April this year.

Web registrants reached 318,000 for the first four months of this year from 189,576 during the same period in 2011.

“If the SSS already has a Facebook page, I will not be surprised if you get thousands and thousands of likes from the Filipino people,” the President said.

He said even information technology specialists around the world noticed the SSS improvements in using the web and the advancements in telecommunications for the delivery of services.

With an expanded “Text-SSS” facility, the President said members could easily make inquiries.

The President also enjoined all SSS personnel to remain firm and alert in his administration’s war against corruption.

“Now, more than ever, I have faith in your cooperation. That’s why my challenge to each one of you is: Are you ready to stand up, side with the truth and become an obstacle to the dark motives of those who are unscrupulous? Or will you just shrug your shoulders and be part of the lack of justice?” the President said.

Aquino said every “Juan and Juana dela Cruz” would run to and depend on the SSS during times of trial and need and that it is the duty of the agency to protect their right to have an opportunity to improve and have decent lives.

He also highlighted the trust and respect of every Filipino SSS member and their obligation to take the utmost care of their hard earned money.

“Therefore, the SSS funds for the people can’t be played with. They cannot be gambled and risked just like in a casino,” the President said.

The SSS was created on Sept. 1, 1957 through the the Social Security Act of 1954 or Social Security Law to develop and promote a viable, universal and equitable social security protection scheme, suitable to the needs of the people throughout the Philippines.