Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the guidance of Social Security Commission (SSC) Chair Secretary Frederick D. Go, the Social Security System (SSS) today announced a comprehensive ₱60-billion financial assistance package.
This initiative aims to shield Filipino workers, pensioners, and employers from the impacts of rising energy costs, inflation, and global economic tensions.
SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro emphasized that these policy enhancements are designed to provide immediate liquidity and long-term stability.
“We recognize that rising prices and economic uncertainty continue to place pressure on Filipino families and businesses,” said de Claro. “Through these enhanced programs, SSS is ensuring that our members and pensioners have access to timely, affordable, and reliable financial support when they need it most.”
The SSS has streamlined its services and relaxed eligibility requirements across several key programs:
To help members avoid high-interest informal lenders, the Emergency Loan Program now features:
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Loan Amount: Up to ₱20,000.
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Interest Rate: Reduced to 7% per annum.
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Repayment: Includes a six-month moratorium on payments.
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Easier Access: Eligibility has been lowered from 36 months of contributions to just 18 months. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) also benefit from simplified requirements.
New micro-loan program
Aiming for a ₱40-billion portfolio over the next two years, this digital-first program provides:
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Quick Liquidity: Loans between ₱1,000 and ₱20,000.
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Short Terms: Repayment periods of 15 to 90 days at 8% per annum.
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Convenience: Accessible via the My.SSS portal and partner financial institutions.
Accelerated pension increase
In a significant move for seniors, the SSS is advancing the 2026 scheduled pension increase from September to June 2026.
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Retirement & Disability: 10% increase.
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Death & Survivor Benefits: 5% increase.
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Impact: Approximately ₱6.5 billion will be released early to support millions of pensioners.
The SSS is offering a “clean slate” for those struggling with past-due obligations:
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Member Loan Condonation: Through the Consolidation of Past Due Short-Term Member Loans, penalties are 100% waived upon settlement of the principal and interest. Members can pay in full or via installments for up to 60 months.
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Employer Relief: The CPCoDe MRP (for businesses) and CPCR-P (for household employers) allow for the restructuring of unpaid contributions without additional penalties, ensuring employees remain covered.
While providing aggressive financial relief, the SSS remains dedicated to the prudent management of its resources. These measures are balanced to ensure the long-term sustainability of the social security fund, guaranteeing protection for both current members and future generations.
For more information and to apply for these programs, members are encouraged to visit the My.SSS portal or the official SSS mobile app.
