eTap experienced a 101 percent increase in revenue, showcasing its robust market presence and effective business strategies, demonstrating eTap’s commitment to operational excellence and financial strength as well as reflecting eTap’s resilience and adaptability in a dynamic business environment.
Fujifilm Philippines, a global leader in imaging and healthcare technology, has expressed support for the Department of Health (DOH) and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in their campaign to end tuberculosis (TB) in the country.
By Herman M. Lagon
“Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo” by Yano is among the most profound and controversial songs in Philippine music history. This folk-punk masterpiece, which paints a vivid picture of social critique, will reverberate through the ages because its relevance has not faded, no matter how much politics and culture change. More than merely music, “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo” reflects the universal problem of hypocrisy and moral contradiction, which affects cultures all over the globe.
With the help of Dong Abay’s raw vocal energy and Eric Gancio’s guitar prowess, Yano’s ingenuity came up with a 4:27-minute formula in the mid-90s that was hard to recreate. Unafraid to expose the paradoxes and absurdities that many would instead remain hidden, they plowed deep into Filipino society through their storytelling. The scathing lyrics and infectious melody of “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo” made it into an anthem, a call to arms for people who had grown tired of the hypocritical public displays of religion.
The song begins with a situation that any Manila resident may relate to a woman riding a jeepney, completely absorbed in her prayers. The major idea of the song—the duality of human nature, the coexistence of sanctity and sin—is embodied by this woman, who erupts in profanity with a slight annoyance later on. Yano depicts a culture where contrasts and strong visuals reveal a world where superficial holiness masks deep-seated selfishness and corruption.
The song continues by introducing a new character, a street preacher, who, when given the chance to live out the principles he passionately advocates, turns his back on a destitute boy’s plight. In this section, Yano expands on the criticism by highlighting the biased sympathy many so-called good people suffer from. These scenarios, set against a society firmly committed to religious and moral stances, effectively expose hypocrisy.
The core message of “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo” is a request for self-reflection rather than only a critical analysis. In doing so, it invites listeners to examine the conflict between their professed religious beliefs and the contradictions they experience daily. It is ridiculous to claim moral superiority while not living up to one’s words, as the song’s chorus—a seemingly silly refrain of laughing at the holy dog and saintly horse—highlights.
This song’s frank analysis of contemporary standards and actions has made it a cultural staple since its premiere almost thirty years ago. It is not only content to be musically pleasing; it can make listeners reflect on their values and principles and encourage them to examine them more closely. “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo”–a staple masterpiece sung in karaoke booths, watering holes, fiesta plazas, and public rallies up until today–is a powerful reminder that music has the ability to question, confront, and transform, even in a society where change is typically delayed and accompanied by opposition.
The impact of Yano’s music, particularly songs like “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo”–plus the hit songs “Trapo,” “Kumusta Na,” and “State U,” which also deserve separate commentary pieces–continues to be a powerful reminder of how music may be used for social criticism for generations to come. Yano not only cemented their place in OPM history by fearlessly addressing taboo topics but also laid the groundwork for other musicians who want to use their platforms for social commentary and political reform. As the Philippines—and the rest of the globe—keeps trying to make sense of the complicated modern world, this song shines a light on the need to dig deeper, to question, and to seek answers.
A song isn’t the only thing “Banal na Aso, Santong Kabayo” is. It is a story that reflects our shared humanity, a thread that runs through Philippine culture, and a constant reminder that we must never stop seeking truth and honesty. It challenges us to reflect, to laugh, and, most importantly, to make a difference, both in our own lives and in the world around us. The fact that Yano’s music has stood the test of time is irrefutable evidence of the ability of art to open minds, shake up established conventions, and motivate people to be more self-aware, empathetic, and authentic.
CITY OF MALOLOS—Bulacan will need to remove from its major rivers, Manila Bay off shores and waterways at least 15,000 dump truck loads or 282 million cubic meter of silts, sands and other sediments to finally address the 4 decades perennial flooding in the province.
TCSC, a Filipino private mining and dredging company will conduct “Bulacan Desilting River/Restoration Project,” a cleaning and dredging efforts of the province’s waterways starting this May using seabed cleaner dredging plant—Water Jet Suction Dredger equipment.
According to TCSC assistant to the president Bernilo Pacheco, their company which started four years ago in 2020 the river exploration, study and investigation of Bulacan major rivers and off shores including the flooding, are caused by clogged waterways where rain waters cannot flow out towards Manila Bay. The waterways are heavily filled with sediments, sands, silts, wastes and other human interventions making even the rivers to become too shallow.
“Rivers are very shallow. River channels are full of sand, clay, silt and other sediments and other human interventions including the off shores of Manila Bay,” says TCSC in a presentation.
Using 12 units of Water Jet Suction Dredger in 3 years time, the said 282 million cubic meter or 15,000 dump truck load of the silt and sediments will be hauled off in Bulacan’s clogged rivers, channels and ocean and sea embankments or offshores compare to 1,506 backhoe units within the same period, Pacheco explained.
Pacheco said the project will be completed within three years or until 2027 where Bulacan can no longer experience flooding.
Gov. Daniel Fernando with the support of Vice Gov. Alexis Castro and the rest of the other Provincial Government of Bulacan (PGB) officials and all the 24 Bulacan mayors and vice mayors launched the TCSC project on Monday in Shangri La Hotel in Mandaluyong City.
Fernando said PGB will not spend any single centavo in the project but will even earn P3-Billion worth of taxes including a separate revenue for the national government.
According to TCSC, a total of 282 million cubic meter silt, sands and other sediments composing of muds, wastes and other human interventions are needed to be extracted
to make Bulacan flood-free within three years time. To be dredged and extracted are Pamarawan river’s 8,728,834 ; Angat river’s 80, 433, 858; Malolos and Pamarawan channel’s 50,768,770; Malolos river’s 139,002,250 and Angat off shore channel’s 13,099,758 million cubic meters.
The current siltation accumulated for over four decades will already reach up to 20 meters depth, Pacheco added.
“After the three years of cleaning and dredging, we will no longer experience flooding. We can use our budget for other significant purposes and no longer in relief and ayuda for the flood victims. We will finally address the 4 decades of flooding in our province. This project is a product of our long time search and ardent desire to end the flooding in our beloved province. We cannot just allow floods to regularly disturb our everyday lives during rainy days and typhoons,” Fernando said.
The governor also said that the project is approved through an inter-agency partnership and cooperation between the Department of Public Works and Highways, the PGB and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Pacheco said the project will earn Bulacan P3-billion worth of revenues for the 5% in gross sales, 10 % in extraction tax and a separate 4% tax for the national government.
“For the 90 million cubic meters of silt with sand as the target volume to be extracted per year, there will be an approximately P3B (15% tax) that will go to the PGB which will come from the gross revenue of 90 million cubic meters,” Pacheco explained to NEWS CORE on Wednesday.
TCSC will use the dredged silt, sediments and sands in Bulacan to supply the needed filling materials in 2 reclamation projects—for Pasay Harbor and SM Prime.
TCSC will spend P500 million each year during the three years dredging and cleaning. Initially for the geological investigation, and exploration, they have already spent P200 million.
Herman Lagon, Ph.D.
The transformation of the ISUFST Cultural Center into a vibrant stage for the coronation night was a spectacle that left many alumni in awe, all courtesy of Alumni Queen 2024 Cabangal and her stage decoration team with the assistance from the school’s General Services Office led by homegrown alumnus Dr. Bernie Bayogos. The meticulous decorations and floral arrangements created an enchanting and regal ambiance.
Hundreds of alumni and retired faculty from various batches shared glowing remarks on-site and on social media about the creativity and effort put into the setting. “Seeing the cultural center turned into such a beautiful and majestic setting brought back so many fond memories and made the evening even more special,” commented alumna Dr. Amalia Delfin Dohina.
The alumni were impressed by the visual transformation and the seamless integration of modern elements with traditional decor, reflecting the university’s commitment to heritage and progress. “The mix of colors and the way the flowers seemed to float above us was magical. It’s incredible to see how our university continues to embrace innovation while respecting tradition,” noted Alumni Affairs Director Prof. Lorelie Robles. Feedback on the event’s organization was overwhelmingly positive, with many alumni praising the attention to detail and the overall coordination. They say the event was well organized and hosted.
As the night unfolded, the attendees’ energy elevated, culminating in a dance party that many described as the highlight of their trip. “The transformation of the mood matched the transformation of the venue. Everyone felt uplifted, and the joy was palpable,” explained Alumi Queen 2024 Cabangal. The event’s success was a testament to the organizing committee’s hard work and the alumni’s active participation, ensuring that the homecoming was not just a reunion but a renewal of their lifelong connection to ISUFST.
Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, salutes the event with heartfelt remarks: “We are thrilled to welcome back our esteemed alumni to this grand celebration, themed ‘Ang Aton Pagkilit-anay… Paghanduraw sa mga Nagligad!’ This homecoming is both a gathering and a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit and accomplishments of ISUFST graduates. It is a moment to reconnect, reminisce, and inspire each other to continue to excel in various fields and communities.”
Dr. Carlito Delfin, ISUFST Federated Alumni President, added, “It’s an honor to welcome our alumni back to where their professional journeys began. This homecoming is a celebration of our history and a reaffirmation of our commitment to integrity, social justice, discipline, and academic excellence. Together, we’re not just revisiting our past; we’re also forging a future filled with even greater achievements.”
For his part, inspirational speaker James Herrada (Magna Cum Laude, Batch 1984), Program Director of the Diagnostic Referral Center in Texas, encouraged all participants in the coronation night: “Always remember to trust the process, embrace the journey, and remember that success is about growth and character. Keep on keeping on, with resilience as our key, for success favors the prepared.” He further urged participants to “unite within our alumni association to pursue our university’s vision and goals together, standing strong and supporting each other towards a brighter future.”
Mrs. Leonisa Singletary (Valedictorian, Batch 1976), First Princess and Distinguished Overseas Filipino Alumna awardee, emphasized in her speech during the morning program the significance of ‘remembering,’ especially recalling her formative days at the school. Reflecting on her journey from poverty to prominence, she shared how her years at IRSOF (old name of ISUFST) were foundational, stating, “School memories are truly the best. I was overwhelmed with joy and surprise during my recent visit to the campus of my alma mater. These memories inspire us to sail on and work towards the betterment of the University.”
The three-day event featured a series of activities designed to foster camaraderie and reconnect the alumni with their alma mater. Highlights included a motorcade attended by more than 100 vehicles, a Holy Mass, Zumba sessions, a videoke contest, and campus tours. The event culminated in the coronation night, which featured lively performances by a live band, creating an atmosphere of joyful nostalgia.
The festivities also included a business meeting to discuss future initiatives and a Bingo Bonanza, which added a festive layer to the gathering along with the raffle draw. While affirming the voluntary services of the officers and volunteers of the Federated Alumni, Dr. Siason further noted, “Your [alumni] efforts and presence enrich our homecoming and contributes to the enduring legacy of ISUFST. As we celebrate, let us pledge to uphold our inherited values and pass them on, enriched, to the next generation of ISUFST students.”
As the celebration wrapped up, many alumni expressed appreciation for the opportunity to revisit their roots and reconnect with old friends and mentors. The successful staging of the event not only celebrated the past but also set a positive tone for future engagements and contributions from the ISUFST alumni community.
With the echoes of the grand celebration still resounding, ISUFST stands poised to continue its tradition of excellence. It is supported by a strong and active alumni network dedicated to upholding the university’s values and contributing to its legacy of success.
ISUFST traces its roots back to 1957. Over the decades, it has expanded significantly, transitioning through several milestones, including introducing various collegiate and postgraduate programs. It has also expanded into five campuses and sites in Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dumangas, and San Enrique, fostering expertise in fisheries, agriculture, education, management, technology, and other fields. This evolution—Central Iloilo National School of Fisheries (CINSOF), Iloilo Regional School of Fisheries (IRSOF), Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF)—culminated in its conversion to university status in 2023, following the approval of Republic Act No. 10604, making it the 10th university in Iloilo. Today, ISUFST, the only fisheries university in the country, continues to adhere to its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility, serving as a pivotal educational institution in the region. (Text by Herman Lagon; Photos by Edmer Bernardo, Sanny Fernandez, and Amalia Dohina/PAMCO)
Herman Lagon, Ph.D.
The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) is gearing up for its second entrance examination for the upcoming school year 2024-2025, to be held this Saturday, May 4. This second batch provides another opportunity for prospective students who missed the first entrance exam.
Due to strong public demand, ISUFST extended the application period for the entrance exams until April 26, allowing more students and their families a chance to be part of the dynamic learning environment offered by the university. Applications were accepted both online and in-person, signaling the university’s flexible approach to accommodate interested applicants.
The entrance examination will take place across all five campuses of ISUFST, with results expected to be released by May 10. Following the entrance exams, students will undergo subsequent testing phases depending on their program of choice, including aptitude and skills tests scheduled from May 13 to May 18. The selection process will culminate with interviews from May 27 to May 31, leading to the announcement of the final list of admitted students on June 5.
Dr. Michael B. Dizon, Director of the University Learning Assessment Center (ULAC), emphasized the significance of this second examination: “The second batch of examination is worth it for those who missed the first. It’s a big chance and a rare opportunity. The university will only accept 900 freshman students for SY 2024-2025. Therefore, this will be a selection of the best students as part of the admission process.”
The university president, Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., also expressed his enthusiasm for the additional exam batch, highlighting the university’s commitment to academic excellence and accessibility. “We’re thrilled to offer this second chance in response to high demand, reaffirming our commitment to academic excellence and accessibility. This initiative ensures every aspiring student can join our programs that hope to form leaders who pursue excellence in all areas, poised to impact our community positively,” said Dr. Siason.
ISUFST, which traces its roots back to 1957 and became a university in 2023, offers a wide range of programs accredited by the CHED Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) in fisheries, agriculture, educaiton, management, and technology, among others. The university’s extensive curricular offerings, including new post-graduation programs planned for the next school year, are designed to prepare students for diverse professional fields.
For further details, university entrance exam Batch 2 registered examinees are advised to contact the Office of the Student Affairs and Services at https://www.facebook.com/ISCOFMainOSAS or osasmaintiwi@isufst.edu.ph. (Herman Lagon/PAMCO)
By Herman M. Lagon
In the ground zero of Jaro, Iloilo City, a respected institution is poised to breathe anew—Pius XII College of Iloilo, once known as the Pius XII Institute of Catechetics and Social Studies. As we approach the start of the 100-day countdown this May 4 to the resumption of classes this August 12, the air is thick with anticipation, not just for the rebirth of an educational facility but for the rekindling of a mission.
This is not just any academic endeavor. Pius XII College, founded in 1958 through of the imprimatur of the then Archbishop of Jaro Jose Ma. Cuenco, stands as a beacon for those drawn to the noble vocation of teaching, especially in the areas of spirituality and humanities. The college’s revival is timely, responding to a call from Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter “Antiquum Ministerium,” urging a renaissance in catechism and values-based education. In a time and world where the compass of morality often wavers, the need for educators who can adeptly navigate the realms of ethics and social consciousness has never been more critical.
The choice to teach, to mold young minds, is not merely a career but a calling. Based on its legacy, those who walk through the gates of Pius XII are stepping into a tradition of transformational education, where the lessons extend beyond textbooks, touching students’ very souls. The Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Values Education and Bachelor of Secondary Education Social Studies programs offered are apparently crafted to deepen intellectual understanding and spiritual and moral depth, integrating the Catholic faith into learning and life. It is the needed response to the dearth of committed and competent values-laden mentors in the country.
Envision a classroom where students take an active role in learning about the world and local history, where discussions on the challenges faced by previous leaders are fueled by a desire to learn from the past and avoid making the same mistakes. Envision a class conversation on values that delves deeper than simple definitions, prompting students to consider their place in the community and their values’ impact on their identity and actions. Envision a school environment where students are nurtured to be self-directed critical thinkers and problem solvers fully driven and grounded with the truth, the just, the good, and the beautiful.
It is here that educators and catechists like my good friend Primo Escobañez, Vice President of the Pius XII Alumni Association and now Director of Formation at Ateneo de Iloilo, Dr. Teresita Torrico-Militar, retired principal of La Paz National High School and President of the Pambansang Samahan Para sa Edukasyon ng Pagpahalaga (Values Education), Fr. Dennis Galon, Team Leader of the Santa Maria Parish Ministry, Telespino Padernilla, Jr., Division of Passi City Principal and Regional Trainer for the GMRC/Values Education for DepEd Matatag Curriculum, and Dr. Linda Tacorda, the first Filipino lay woman to finish the catechetics degree from Pontifical Salesian University in Rome, were forged.
Also, some of the proud alumni of Pius XII are equally renowned and respected former and current principals, administrators, and leaders in the fields of law, school management, social studies, values education, and spiritual vocation, namely, Sr. Ninfa Escobañez, Alicia Catexterio Dalanangbayan, Milagros Almoceda Vencer, lawyer Veroncia Villadolid, Dr. Fe Angelic Fernandez Mercado, Sr. Ma. Lucila A. Narra, Dexter R. Tanaleon, Sofia Genive, Leonida Armada Abunto, Bonifacio Camilon, Sr. Ofelia Dondoyano, and Sr. Josephine Aldep. Their journey throughout the country and abroad underscores the transformative power of Pius XII education—a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy of shaping educators and leaders imbued with integrity and insight.
Yet, the path has not always been smooth. The college closed its doors in 2006, after offering Bachelor of Science in Education Major in Catechetics and Social Studies and laboratory high shool for 48 years, mainly due to dwindling enrolments and partly due to funding recalibration and directional fine-tuning, a sad reminder of the challenges faced by institutions specializing in faith-based education. But the seeds of resilience were sown deep. Today, as Pius XII reopens, it does so with a renewed spirit, ready to address the pressing needs of our time—needs that call for a deep-seated understanding of human values and social dynamics.
The curriculum is seemingly rigorous and holistic, designed to equip future educators with the skills to inspire and engage. Beyond the academic rigor, the college hopes to nurture a sense of community and commitment to love, service, and excellence. It desires to continue to embody the ethos of being agents of social change, a resonant chord for the Ilonggo soul.
Affordability is also key. With tuition set at a modest P19,625 per semester, Pius XII strives to be accessible to all who desire to pursue a career in education. Further easing the financial burden, the college offers scholarships and sponsorships through partnerships with parish communities and the generous support of the alumni network.
In this nurturing environment, students are not only taught but are also treasured as individuals with unique potentials to be evangelizers in their own right—whether in classrooms, in local communities, or beyond the seas in mission territories. They are prepared to be again the standard-bearers of a faith that does justice, educators who will go forth and teach values that uplift, unite, and, if possible, fight for what is decent and right.
However, to ensure the success and sustainability of the renewed Pius XII College under the leadership of Fr. Emmanuel Tuberada and guidance of Archbishop of Jaro Archdiocese Jose Romeo O. Lazo, the support of local churches, alumni, and the larger community will be essential. This is a collective endeavor, a shared journey toward nurturing a generation that values knowledge, kindness, integrity, and civic responsibility.
The re-emergence of Pius XII College after almost two decades of hiatus is a call to action for all who cherish education as a force for good. It is an invitation to partake in a mission that transcends the boundaries of classrooms, reaching out into the community and beyond, fostering a legacy of learning deeply rooted in faith and service.
So, to potential students pondering their future paths, consider this: to teach is to touch lives forever. The goal of education at Pius XII College goes beyond simply learning facts and figures; it also involves shaping the minds and personalities of future generations. Become a shaper for future generations, capable of meeting the problems of our day and improving them.
And to the community that holds this institution in its collective heart: let us rally, support, and pray. Let us witness the mass, foot parade, and ceremonial launching this May 4, 2 p.m., at the Jaro Cathedral, Jaro Plaza, and College grounds. In the success of Pius XII College, we find the affirmation of our values and the advancement of our society. This is our call to be part of something greater, a mission, an apostolate, a call to gift and to give in the spirit of true educational and spiritual renewal.
Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet today urged Filipino workers to be vigilant and regularly check if their contribution records are updated as the SSS pursued delinquent employers nationwide.
Macasaet led the simultaneous Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operation, which called on more than 1,200 employers nationwide to settle their contribution delinquencies, amounting to over P335 million and affecting the social security coverage of nearly 19,000 employees.
“Our members can now easily check if their SSS contribution record is updated using the My.SSS Portal, which they can access through their smartphones. If they find out that their employers are not remitting their contributions, we advise them to report it immediately to our SSS Branch Office to investigate,” Macasaet said.
In a RACE operation held in Quezon City, Macasaet emphasized that employers should religiously remit their workers’ contributions so they will not deprive their employees of SSS benefits.
Macasaet said that if their contribution records are not updated, they will not be entitled to claim SSS benefits or apply for loan programs.
“For example, an SSS member was hospitalized for ten days due to an illness. Suppose their employer is not remitting the SSS contributions. In that case, they will be unqualified to receive sickness benefits from SSS because one of the requirements of the said benefit is to have recency in contributions,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of an up-to-date contribution record, as the monthly contributions of SSS members serve as the basis for qualifying for SSS benefits.
Meanwhile, Macasaet issued a stern warning to delinquent employers, making it clear that SSS will not hesitate to file charges against them, adding, “Non-remittance of SSS premiums is a criminal offense that violates Republic Act No. 11199.”
Under the law, SSS Executive Vice President for Branch Operations Sector Voltaire P. Agas explained that employers who fail to register their employees or have not deducted and remitted their contributions to SSS will be penalized with a fine of P5,000 to P20,000 and face imprisonment ranging from six years and one day to 12 years.
“Employers who received the violation notices are given 15 days to coordinate with their respective servicing SSS Branch Office and settle their contribution delinquencies, and if they fail to act on it, SSS will take legal action against them,” Agas said.
Meanwhile, Macasaet said the nationwide crackdown against delinquent employers on Tuesday aimed to show SSS’ solidarity with Filipino workers and recognize their significant contribution to commemorating Labor Day.
SM City Marilao pulled in a thick crowd of job applicants during the recent job fair held in time for Labor Day, May 1.
The job fair, which was organized in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment Region III (DOLE-R3) together with the Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the Municipal PESO unit in Marilao with the support of the Local Government of Marilao, generated a total of 3,614 job openings. Committed to connecting jobseekers in the community with career opportunities, SM Supermalls and partner government agencies bring companies together in one venue, showcasing a diverse range of industries, career fields, and salary levels.
A combined total of 41 companies participated in the job fair, offering various positions across the province, including SM Supermalls career opportunities. Out of the 278 applicants, at least 57 job seekers were Hired-On-The-Spot.
SM City Marilao Mall Manager Emmanuel Gatmaitan shares that the public-private partnership between SM and government agencies, through events including job fairs, is likely to create opportunities for growth. “At SM, we believe in fostering thriving communities where everyone can flourish. When jobs are created in our cities and towns, everyone benefits,” Gatmaitan added.
Jobseekers also took advantage of the One-Stop Shop, which provides service in processing relevant requirements that include SSS, PhilHealth, PhilSys, and Pag-IBIG membership.
The recent job fair is one of the many ways SM Supermalls contribute to nation-building by supporting the National and Local Government’s initiative of providing employment for every Filipino.
On May 10, jobhunters are invited to explore career opportunities at the upcoming job fair to be held at SM Center Pulilan.
To commemorate Labor Day, the Social Security System (SSS) will push for the social security protection of Filipino workers nationwide by calling on business establishments to religiously remit their workers’ contributions.
SSS Executive Vice President for Branch Operations Sector Voltaire P. Agas announced that SSS will issue violation notices to delinquent employers across the country in a synchronous Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operation to remind them of the legal consequences of not remitting their employees’ contributions.
Agas added that this event is dubbed as “Alay ng SSS para sa mga Manggagawa – Serbisyong Mapagkakatiwalaan at Proteksyong Maaasahan.” The nationwide campaign will be done today, April 30.
“We want to assure our members that SSS will take action and penalize employers who fail to register their employees or have not deducted and remitted their contributions,” Agas said.
Agas affirmed SSS’ commitment to ensuring that all Filipinos in the labor force have access to social security benefits in emergencies.
Agas said SSS President and Chief Executive Office (PCEO) Rolando Ledesma Macasaet have always prioritized the welfare of the Filipino workers by ensuring that they are able to avail of the various social security protection benefits provided by the state pension fund.
One of these measures, Agas said, is to see to it that employers are up-to-date in remitting premium contributions collected from workers.
“We have implemented new programs to reach out to our kababayans in the informal economy, especially in the rural areas and those belonging to the grassroots by encouraging them to enroll in the SSS so we all Filipinos will get social security coverage,” Agas noted.
Benefits for workers
Agas said that SSS members would be entitled to social security benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, funeral, and death benefits.
“Retirement benefit is a cash benefit granted by SSS to a member who can no longer work due to old age. Members who pay at least 120 monthly contributions prior to the semester of retirement will get a lifetime monthly pension, while those with less than 120 monthly contributions will receive a one-time lump sum amount,” Agas explained.
Meanwhile, Agas said SSS grants death benefits to the beneficiaries of a deceased member, which is in the form of a monthly pension for those with 36 monthly contributions prior to the semester of death and a one-time lump sum amount with less than 36 monthly contributions.
Agas said that female SSS members who have paid at least three-monthly contributions in the last 12 months before the semester of childbirth, miscarriage, or emergency termination of pregnancy can avail of the maternity benefit.
He noted that members with at least one month contribution who become disabled partially or totally can receive a disability benefit. Members may receive a monthly pension if with at least 36 monthly contributions prior to the semester of contingency or lump sum amount if with less than 36 monthly contributions.
“We also grant funeral benefits to whoever paid the funeral expenses of the deceased member. Claimants of deceased members with 36 or more monthly contributions may receive a variable amount from P20,000 to P60,000, depending on the number and amount of contributions paid by the member. The funeral benefit arising from the death of a member who paid less than 36 monthly contributions is fixed at P12,000,” he continued.
Agas said that sickness benefit is a daily cash allowance paid for the number of days a member cannot work due to sickness or injury. The member must have paid at least 3 monthly contributions within the 12-month period prior to the semester of contingency.
Agas also said that unemployment benefit is given to covered employees, including kasambahays, and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who were involuntarily separated from employment due to redundancy, retrenchment or downsizing, closure or cessation of operation or other causes without their fault or negligence.
Members must have also paid at least 36 monthly contributions, wherein 12 months of which should have been paid within the 18-month-period before the month of involuntary separation, he added.
Additional retirement saving schemes
Agas said that SSS finds ways within the boundaries of the Social Security Law to create programs that will help SSS members save more for their retirement.
He said that one of these two retirement savings schemes is the Workers’ Investment and Savings Program (WISP), which is a compulsory provident fund scheme for SSS members with no final claim and contributing to the regular SSS program with a Monthly Salary Credit (MSC) that exceeds P20,000.
“Under the program, each contributing member will have an account wherein SSS will place their contributions and investment earnings. Members pay their WISP contributions together with their regular SSS contributions,” he explained.
Agas said that the SSS also offers a Voluntary Provident Fund Program, also known as the WISP Plus, to SSS members to increase their retirement pension in addition to the benefits they receive under the regular social security program.
“Members can contribute as little as P500 per payment under the WISP Plus whenever they want. The members’ pooled contributions under WISP Plus will generate investment earnings, which will be credited to their accounts tax-free,” he added.
Agas concluded that WISP and WISP Plus aim to supplement a member’s savings in addition to the retirement he/she can get from the regular social security program.
NEWSCORE is a weekly newspaper published and circulated in the province of Bulacan. It was founded in October 2006 by Carmela Reyes-Estrope, Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent in Bulacan and had its maiden issue on October 10-16 that year. It is now running on its 11th year. The paper uses a bilingual medium. It carries all sorts of news stories mostly political, crime, environmental, social and economic issues including occasional sports event happening in the province's 21 towns and three cities.
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