By: Alex Q. Galang
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Social Security System (SSS) highlighted its emergency loan and other social protection programs during the Talakayan sa Freeport held Aug. 27 at Travelers Hotel in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, as the agency also announced mobile service activities for members in Olongapo and nearby communities.
SSS Luzon Central 2 Division Senior Communications Analyst Julie Ann Arellano and SSS Olongapo Branch Acting Head Renato Madera served as resource persons during the discussion, which provided an overview of SSS benefits, contribution requirements and loan programs.
Among the programs discussed was the SSS emergency loan, which is available to qualified members affected by storms, typhoons and other calamities.
Arellano said members applying for the emergency loan must have at least 18 monthly contributions, including at least six posted contributions under their current membership or coverage type. Employed members must also have employers who are updated in the remittance of contributions and loan payments, unless covered by an approved moratorium.
Members with 18 to 35 monthly contributions may borrow up to P10,000, while those with at least 36 monthly contributions may qualify for up to P20,000.
The loan carries a six-month moratorium on payment, with amortization beginning on the seventh month. Applications are filed online through the member’s My.SSS account.
The SSS officials also discussed the agency’s regular benefits covering sickness, maternity, involuntary unemployment, disability, retirement, funeral and death.
For sickness benefits, qualified members may receive a daily cash allowance when they are unable to work because of illness or injury. The maternity benefit provides 105 days for live childbirth, 120 days for qualified solo parents, and 60 days for miscarriage, emergency termination of pregnancy or stillbirth.
The unemployment benefit, meanwhile, is available to qualified members who lose their jobs involuntarily, subject to contribution and other eligibility requirements.
The briefing also covered the MySSS Pension Booster, a savings and investment program that provides members with an additional source of financial protection. It is available to employed, self-employed, voluntary and overseas Filipino worker members who meet the applicable requirements. The minimum contribution discussed was P500 per month.
Mobile services
SSS also announced upcoming mobile service activities intended to bring its services closer to members.
An SSS e-Wheels Palengke Caravan was scheduled at the San Marcelino Public Market, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., where members can raise concerns and access SSS services.
Another activity, Pasada Express, is set for Sept. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Olongapo-Tipo Transport Terminal in Barangay Nucalaban, Olongapo City.
The latter activity will provide transport workers an opportunity to register with SSS and inquire about their membership, contributions and available benefits.
During the Talakayan, SSS also discussed the MySSS Card, which serves as an identification card and an EMV-enabled payment card. Qualified members may use it for the receipt of benefit, claim and loan proceeds.
Members applying for the card must have a permanent SSS number, a My.SSS account and updated personal and contact information in SSS records. Their information must also be registered with the Philippine Statistics Authority or National ID system and match their SSS records.
The Talakayan sa Freeport brought together media representatives and resource persons for a discussion on issues and programs relevant to communities and workers in the Subic Bay area.