LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) — The Social Security System (SSS) conducted its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) campaign in San Nicolas town recently, targeting eight delinquent employers with 33 affected employees.
RACE is part of the nationwide campaign of SSS to ensure full compliance of employers with their obligations as stipulated in Republic Act No. 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018.
This also aims to ensure that employee members are able to enjoy their social security coverage benefits and strengthen the agency’s collection efficiency.
During the surprise visit, the SSS flagged businesses, which include a laundry shop, salon, medical services, gaming entertainment, food, and retail industries, for non-remittance of contributions, non-reporting of employees, and non-production of records.
Richard Raralio, SSS-Laoag branch head, said that these establishments have been given a 15-day grace period to settle their delinquencies.
He emphasized that failure to comply will result in legal action under the law.
Employers who failed to register their employees or have not remitted the contribution of their employees will be penalized with a fine amounting to P5,000 to P20,000 and imprisonment from six years and one day to 12 years.
“We have given the employers a 15-day grace period to comply, and if they fail to settle, we will proceed to file cases against them,” Raralio stated.
Employers can request delinquency management, restructuring programs, or contribution penalty condonations.
If approved, it will allow them to pay their outstanding amounts in installments over a period of 12 to 48 months, depending on the unpaid balance.
To prevent complications, employers should make timely contributions, as any outstanding balance grows monthly and can become unmanageable if ignored.
Raralio also urged affected employees to monitor their SSS records and report non-compliant employers to the nearest SSS branch, assuring them that their identities will remain confidential.
“We encourage employees to register online and create an SSS account to monitor if their employers are remitting. If they notice inconsistencies, they should report them to any SSS branch for personal inspection of the establishment. Rest assured, their names will not be disclosed,” Raralio added.
The SSS continues with its aim to ensure that employers fulfill their duty of reporting and paying their employees’ contributions, safeguarding the rights and benefits of the employees. (AMB/MJTAB/JEG/PIA Ilocos Norte)
