SSS lowers retirement age of racehorse jockeys

The Social Security System (SSS) has reduced the compulsory retirement age for professional racehorse jockeys, from 60 years old to 55 years old, in compliance with Republic Act 10789 or the Racehorse Jockeys Retirement Act.

Based on RA 10789, the reduced age is to protect racehorse jockeys from the inherent dangers of their profession which causes life-threatening injuries, permanent disability or even death.

“Considering the danger the racehorse jockeys encounter, the new policy will allow them to enjoy their retirement benefit five years earlier than other SSS members,” said SSS president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Dooc.

In the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Order No. 169, the new compulsory retirement age covers those who have been employed and certified as a racehorse jockey by an employer licensed by the Philippine Racing Commission.

In addition, they must have also worked as a racehorse jockey for at least five years, either continuous or intermittent, prior to the semester of retirement which actual date falls not earlier than May 24, 2016, the effectivity date of the Racehorse Jockeys Retirement Act.

However, the DOLE order emphasized that the compulsory retirement age of 55 is applicable only in the absence of an approved retirement plan by the employer.