MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 27, 2014) – The Social Security System said it has formalized a key partnership with the Department of Agriculture to fully subsidize farmers’ monthly SSS contributions as self-employed members as part of its continuing campaign to extend social protection to informal sector workers.
The deal is expected to benefit up to 200,000 agricultural workers nationwide who may qualify for the subsidy as members of Rural Based Organizations or Community Extension Workers in good standing, with 100 farmers already selected as the first batch of beneficiaries.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. and Agricultural Secretary Proseso Alcala signed the agreement during ceremonies at the DA Main Office in Quezon City. SSS Senior Vice President Judy Frances See and DA-Agricultural Training Institute Director Asterio Saliot also witnessed the signing of the agreement.
Apart from farmers, fisherfolk will also be added to the list of beneficiaries for the subsidized SSS contributions. At present, over 450,000 farmers and fisherfolk are covered by SSS as self-employed members.
The chosen beneficiaries have the option to increase their monthly contribution, on top of the subsidized amount, to become entitled to higher SSS benefits and loans in the future.
Many farmers and fisherfolk lack social security coverage and face difficulties in remitting regular contributions, but SSS said this is something that it aims to address through initiatives such as its new partnership with DA.
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