SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — To ensure continuous benefits for elderly pensioners, the Social Security System (SSS) in La Union conducted home visits on Mar. 26 as part of its Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) compliance.
SSS La Union Branch Head Francisco Pentecostes emphasized that home visits are conducted to assist pensioners aged 80 and above who can no longer travel to SSS offices.
This initiative ensures that they remain compliant with ACOP requirements and avoid the suspension of their monthly pensions.
Under Office Order No. 2023-055, retiree pensioners in this age group must submit their ACOP application at least two months before their birth month.
Introduced in 2012, the ACOP prevents fraud by requiring retirees aged 80 and above, total disability pensioners, and those abroad to verify their status, ensuring only eligible members receive benefits and maintaining uninterrupted pension payments.
Failure to comply will result in the suspension of their pension the following month.
“The home visit program reflects our commitment to delivering quality and accessible services to our elderly pensioners,” Pentecostes stated.
He also encouraged pensioners unable to visit SSS offices to notify the branch and submit a sketch of their home location for verification.
Pepito Ancheta, an 87-year-old retiree from San Juan and the first beneficiary visited, expressed gratitude for the ACOP home visit, highlighting its importance for pensioners who can no longer travel.
“This initiative is a big help for us elderly pensioners who struggle with mobility. Now, I can continue receiving my pension without worry,” he said.
Recognizing its impact, the SSS plans to implement the initiative regularly to better serve elderly members.
To request a home visit, beneficiaries or their representatives must notify their local SSS branch and submit a sketch of their home location for verification.
This proactive approach underscores SSS La Union’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare of its elderly members, ensuring they continue receiving the support they deserve. (CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)
