IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) - The Social Security System (SSS) intensifies social security protection for workers in the province by urging business establishments to consistently remit workers’ contribution.

Marnelli T. Pastorfide, branch head of Ipil SSS stated that the security system has issued violation notices to nine establishments in the area during its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) activity held April 30. 

Pastorfide emphasized that the RACE operation conducted in Ipil town, this province, is part of the RACE activity simultaneously held nationwide to mark the May 1 Labor Day celebration and serves as a reminder to employers about the legal consequences of non-remittance of employees’ contributions.

“Ensuring the coverage of employees for social security protection is not just a legal obligation but a moral one as well. Hence, RACE is conducted to safeguard their protection,” she said. 

With event theme “Alay ng SSS para sa mga Manggagawa – Serbisyong Mapagkakatiwalaan at Proteksyong Maaasahan,” Pastorfide said that SSS is committed to taking action and penalizing employers who have failed to register their employees or remit their contributions.

Pastorfide also informed that SSS has partnered with local businesses and the media to enhance its advocacy for the welfare of employees throughout the Zamboanga Sibugay province. She also revealed that its central office management has mandated the conduct of RACE activities at least once a month. The implementation of said directive is nationwide. 

“The RACE activity will be held monthly, the reason is to uphold the provisions of Republic Act No. 11199, increase awareness not only of business owners but their employees as well and give ample opportunity to our partners to comply prior to SSS filing cases in court for violation of the Social Security Act of 2018,” she said.

Republic Act No. 11199  an act rationalizing and expanding the powers and duties of the Social Security  Commission to ensure the long term viability of the Social Security System .

Pastorfide reiterated SSS’ commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the workers by ensuring their access and ability to avail social security protection benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, funeral and death as provided by the state pension fund.

“We are your partner. SSS is here to ensure that the rights of both employees and employers are all protected,” Pastorfide said. (NBE/EDT/JPA/PIA-Zamboanga Sibugay)