SSS Expands Coverage for Baguio JO and COS Workers
The Social Security System (SSS) has made a significant step forward by ensuring social security coverage for “525 Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) workers” employed under the Baguio City Local Government Unit (LGU). This initiative, under the KaSSSangga Collect Program, is a testament to SSS’s commitment to expanding social protection to more workers across the country.
A Strategic Partnership for Workers’ Welfare
In a formal ceremony held on “August 20” at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center, “SSS President and CEO Rolando Macasaet” and “Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong” signed a “Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)” to implement the program. This partnership allows JO and COS workers of Baguio’s city government to access “SSS coverage” by registering as “self-employed members.”In a formal ceremony held on “August 20” at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center, “SSS President and CEO Rolando Macasaet” and “Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong” signed a “Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)” to implement the program. This partnership allows JO and COS workers of Baguio’s city government to access “SSS coverage” by registering as “self-employed members“.
This collaboration reflects SSS’s dedication to reaching workers in the public sector who are not covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Through this initiative, workers will now have access to comprehensive social security benefits, providing them with much-needed financial security and support during unforeseen events.
How Contributions Are Managed
The implementation of the program is streamlined through a salary deduction scheme. The Baguio City LGU will deduct the monthly SSS contributions of the JO and COS workers directly from their salaries and remit the amounts to the SSS Baguio Branch.
The monthly contribution will depend on the worker’s Monthly Salary Credit (MSC), which is used to calculate both contributions and benefits. Currently, the minimum monthly contribution is ₱570, while the maximum is ₱4,230, including employees’ compensation.
Voluntary Programs for Enhanced Retirement
SSS President Macasaet also encouraged JO and COS workers to take advantage of the “MySSS Pension Booster” program. This voluntary savings option allows members to further enhance their “Retirement Fund“, ensuring they have sufficient financial resources when they retire.
A Growing Coverage Initiative
This move to provide social security coverage to government workers is part of SSS’s broader campaign to expand its membership base. As of January, SSS has actively pursued partnerships with various organizations employing JO and COS workers.
To date, 11 MOAs have been signed, covering 354 JO and COS workers in regions such as Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Baguio/Benguet, Abra, and Mt. Province. This growth highlights the increasing awareness and prioritization of social security benefits among public sector workers.
Real-Life Impact: A Testimony from Baguio
For workers like “Almira Jane Agustin” of Aurora Hill, Baguio City, the availability of SSS benefits brings renewed hope. Almira, a JO worker in a government agency, expressed her desire to enroll in SSS after learning about the wide range of benefits it offers. “Bagamat empleyado kami ng government agencies, hindi kami covered ng GSIS benefits dahil sa aming employment status,” she shared.
With the KaSSSangga Collect Program, Almira and her colleagues can now enjoy peace of mind knowing they are entitled to sickness, maternity, and retirement benefits, among others.
Why SSS Coverage Matters
The inclusion of JO and COS workers in SSS ensures they are no longer left vulnerable during times of financial hardship. By securing social protection, these workers gain access to support during medical emergencies, unexpected job disruptions, and even retirement. It also fosters a sense of stability and security, enabling them to focus on their professional roles without financial worry.
How to Enroll
For JO and COS workers in Baguio City interested in joining the program, the process is straightforward. Workers are encouraged to coordinate with their respective offices, which will liaise with the SSS Baguio Branch’s Account Management Section.
This collaboration ensures that all necessary documents are prepared and processed efficiently.
Conclusion
The partnership between SSS and the Baguio City LGU is a milestone in providing much-needed social protection to government workers with temporary employment statuses. By enrolling in the KaSSSangga Collect Program, JO and COS workers can access vital benefits that safeguard their well-being and future. This initiative not only enhances the quality of life for these workers but also underscores SSS’s unwavering commitment to being a reliable partner in times of need.
