MANILA — The Social Security System (SSS) is pushing for a new program to help finance its members’ contribution.
In a press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday, SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robert Joseph M. de Claro even invited lawmakers for a discussion over what he called ‘Contribution Subsidy Program’ or CSP.
De Claro said the CSP needs to be disseminated for public information.
“So, actually, I take this opportunity sa ating mambababatas na gustong tumulong sa SSS. Kaysa ipasuspend natin itong increase na ito, bakit hindi tayo umupo at pag-usapan kung papaano n’yo matutulungan ang ating manggagawa by entering into an agreement with SSS on a contribution subsidy program, which is open to all,” De Claro said.
Some lawmakers are opposed to the hike and called on SSS to suspend its implementation.
De Claro said through CSP, funds from well-off private individuals can be solicited to help low-income earning Filipino segments pay contribution for their social protection.
“Private individuals, ‘yung mga nakakaluwag sa buhay. We encourage you also to work with SSS na baka may specific segments of our society na matutulungan natin,” De Claro said.
“Kasi iyon yung aming programa na hindi masyadong nadi-disseminate sa ating mga mas nakakaluwag sa buhay na puwede kayong tumulong for people that you wouldn’t know towards their social protection,” De Claro added.
Meanwhile, the SSS assured the 15 percent increase on mandatory contribution will be the last.
De Claro underscored that a contribution that is more than 15 percent is already irrational, considering the 25-30 percent income tax already deducted from workers’ regular salaries.
“What I can assure the public is that the Social Security Commission and its management team is committed to working on that 15 percent as the last increase,” he said.
“Because it doesn’t also make sense when you have to pay more than 15 percent from your salary — considering that you have to pay your income tax which is around 25-30 percent and liliit talaga ‘yung take home,” De Claro said. (PND)