MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Sunday urged lawmakers to consider the 30 million active members of the Social Security System (SSS) before overriding the veto of President Benigno Aquino III on the proposed SSS pension hike.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said besides the millions affected by the proposed law, the stability of the SSS funds is at stake.
"Mainam na isaalang-alang ng ating mga mambabatas ang kahalagahan na patatagin ang pondo ng SSS at tiyakin ang kasiguruhan ng pagbabayad ng benepisyo sa lahat ng mahigit 30 milyong miyembro nito," Coloma said.
Coloma also defended the chief executive's decision, saying Aquino only vetoed the proposed P2,000 increase on SSS retirees' pension for the benefit of the majority and for future generation.
The Palace official likewise urged lawmakers to also consider the benefits of the president's move.
"Sa kanyang pahayag noong Biyernes sa Malolos, sinabi ni Pangulong Aquino na siya ay nagpasya bilang ama ng bayan at pinuno ng responsableng pamahalaan na hindi magpapasa ng malaking suliranin sa susunod na administrasyon," Coloma said.
"Mahalagang isaalang-alang din ng mga kasalukuyang nanunungkulan ang epekto ng kanilang mga desisyon ngayon sa kinabukasan at kapakanan ng higit na nakararaming mamamayan," he added.
On Thursday, Aquino vetoed the House Bill 5842 which seeks to increase monthly pension of retirees by P2,000 due to its "dire financial consequences."