SSS files case vs fraudulent benefits claimant

MANILA, Philippines - This is in response to the “Di pa ayos!,” “Spotty records” and “Identity theft” Sections in Mr. Federico Pascual Jr.’s column on June 8, which all referred to the Social Security System (SSS) benefits granted to the account of another “Federico Pascual” who reportedly used the STAR columnist’s contributions from the Manila Times.

At the center of the issue is the social security (SS) number designated in 1964 to Mr. Pascual, then employed with the Manila Times, as part of the “block” or series of SS numbers assigned to the  said company. The Manila Times reported him to SSS merely as “Federico Pascual: without his middle name or initial as well as the suffix “Jr.” It was the number used by Manila Times for his contributions decades ago.

However, even before working for Manila Times, Mr. Pascual  already had an existing SS number that he received when he filed an SSS E-1 Form — which indicates his complete name — on Nov. 2, 1962. This older SS number was used for his other SSS contributions .

For the information of Mr. Pascual and your readers, SSS investigators have traced and identified the branch personnel who processed the SSS Member’s Amendment (E-4) Form that enabled the release of benefits for another “Federico Pascual” since 2003. An administrative case is being prepared against those involved for neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the interest of the service.

Moreover, the SSS also filed a criminal case against the other Federico Pascual’s surviving wife and daughter for misrepresentation in applying for partial permanent disability benefits — which was handled by the daughter on behalf of her bedridden father as representative payee — as well as for death and  funeral claims. The case, which was filed in November 2013  is awaiting resolution at the Office of the City Prosecutor in Quezon City.

In light of these recent developments regarding the case  we maintain the following:

1. So far, there remains no proof of SSS “crooks’ or “syndicates” behind the fraudulent benefit claims, contrary to allegations by Mr. Pascual. Based on available records, the case involves at most lapses during processing by the two employees, as they apparently failed to further verify whether the person with a similar name was the same “Federico Pascual” who owned the SS number with the incomplete registered name.

2. The case has no bearing on the amount of Mr. Pascual’s retirement benefit, since his pension computation has already factored in his years of service with the Manila Times.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to provide these clarifications. — MARISSU G. BUGANTE, Vice President, Public Affairs and Special Events Division, Social Security System