NAGUILIAN, La Union (PIA) – In a bid to improve public access to essential social security services, the Social Security System (SSS) inaugurated its new service office at the Naguilian Epic Mall here on Nov. 28.
This marks a significant milestone in enhancing the delivery of services in La Union and its neighboring municipalities, addressing long-standing issues of accessibility and overcrowding in existing branches.
Ceasar Saludo, vice president of the Luzon North 1 Division, who led the opening ceremony, emphasized that the new office will cater to more than 717 active employers and 41,954 members from Naguilian town and surrounding areas.
The new branch, which occupies 20.85 square meters, is expected to handle an average of 30 to 40 daily transactions and will be operational from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
“This new service office is a response to the challenges faced by SSS branches with limited space, resulting in long queues and overcrowding. With this expanded office, we are improving the overall experience for our members, offering them a more comfortable and efficient environment,” Saludo stated.
The office, located within a bustling shopping mall, has been made possible thanks to the generous support of Epic Mall Management, which provided rent-free space for three years, and Epic Mall Commercial Centers, Inc., which covered building costs.
These contributions saved SSS approximately P15,000 in operational expenses, allowing the office to serve members more effectively.
Francisco Pentecostes, head of the SSS La Union Branch, lauded the office’s strategic location and its modern design, which enhances member experience by offering easy access and a comfortable environment.
“This is just one of the steps we are taking toward expanding and upgrading our service offices to provide better comfort, accessibility, and efficiency for our members and beneficiaries,” Pentecostes said.
Further supporting member convenience, the new office will also assist individuals in utilizing SSS online services, enabling them to access key services such as obtaining an SSS number and generating a Payment Reference Number (PRN).
This digital transition has empowered more individuals to manage their social security needs from the comfort of their homes, significantly improving the efficiency of the system.
With this new development, SSS continues its commitment to improving service delivery and ensuring that its members can access vital social security services with ease, reflecting a growing effort to foster economic development and public welfare across the province. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
