SSS 60th anniversary

THE Philippines Social Security System (SSS) celebrates its 60th anniversary today with the theme “Anim na Dekadang Sinisiguro Kinabukasan ng Bawat Miyembro” (Six Decades of Securing the Future of Each Member). The SSS is the country’s pension program that provides benefits and services to all employees in the private sector as well as self-employed persons. Created by virtue of Social Security Act of 1954 signed by President Ramon Magsaysay, it was not until September 1, 1957, however, that the amended Social Security Act was implemented. The program promoted a universal and equitable social security protection suitable to the needs of Filipinos.

Several activities have been lined up for the 2017 SSS anniversary. Recognizing the valuable contribution of the agency’s pensioners who religiously paid their monthly premiums in their younger years, the SSS, led by President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc, launched the countdown to today’s 60th anniversary in May this year with a “Pensioners’ Day” in various parts of the country. The event aimed to show appreciation to its millions of pensioners who helped build a better SSS during their working life. In July, 2017, around 150 SSS personnel from various branches under the Mindanao South 1 Division participated in the SSS Fun Run 2017 in Davao City as part of the agency’s 60th anniversary celebration. The SSS launched the #KuwentongSSS in August 2017 using Facebook as part of the agency’s #60daysto60th countdown. #KuwentongSSS encourages the agency’s members to post their true and heartwarming stories about their experiences with SSS.

The social security agency has gone a long way since its establishment in fulfilling its vision, mission, and goal. With the convenience of its members as its priority, it has optimized the use of modern technology and has revolutionized its services. These conveniences cover, among others: SSSNet electronic data which automatically transfer data and funds and facilitates members’ access to benefits; MySSS portal for information on membership, policies, or loans; UMID card that can be used not only for SSS but for related government services; benefits payments through banks; “text-SSS” facility to inquire about membership and benefit status; Flexifund, which helps OFWs save a part of their earnings; auto-debit arrangement in which contributions and loan amortizations are automatically deducted from member’s bank accounts every 10th of the month.

The social security agency stresses the value of saving for the future, by teaching its members to save part of what they currently earn. Indeed, for its millions of members and their families, the SSS has become synonymous to social equity and meaningful protection not only in old age but also against the hazards of disability, sickness, maternity, death, and other contingencies resulting in loss of income and financial burden. The agency also provides assistance for housing and house improvement needs, a window for stretching its members’ salaries to pay off educational and other immediate expenses, and assistance in times of calamity.

We greet the officers and members and pensioners of the Philippines Social Security System, led by its President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc, on the occasion of the agency’s 60th Anniversary.