SSS Calamity Aid for Monsoon & Cyclone Victims

The Social Security System (SSS) of the Philippines has issued Circular No. 2024-004, announcing a comprehensive Calamity Assistance Package for its members and pensioners who have been affected by the combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon, Tropical Cyclone Butchoy, and Tropical Cyclone Carina. This initiative is in line with the Social Security Commission (SSC) Resolution No. 551-s.2019, dated 31 July 2019, which aims to provide timely assistance during calamities.

Purpose of the Circular

The primary objective of this circular is to offer financial relief to SSS members and pensioners residing in areas declared under a state of calamity by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). The assistance package is designed to help those who have been adversely affected by the recent natural disasters.

Scope and Availability

The circular covers all SSS members and pensioners living in the affected areas. The assistance will be available from 26 July 2024 until 24 August 2024, providing a window for eligible individuals to apply for the aid they need.

Definitions of Key Terms

1. Calamity Loan Assistance Program (CLAP): A short-term member loan program granted to eligible members affected by calamity.

2. NDRRMC: National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

3. Residence: The home address indicated in the Social Security member/pensioner record.

4. Tropical Cyclone (TC): A warm-core low-pressure system without any front attached, developing over tropical or subtropical waters with organized circulation, including hurricanes and typhoons.

Policies and Types of Assistance

The assistance package includes two main types of aid:

1. Calamity Loan Assistance Program (CLAP): Available for member-borrowers whose residence is in the areas declared under a state of calamity by NDRRMC.

2. Three-Month Advance Pension: For Social Security (SS) and Employees' Compensation (EC) pensioners whose residence is in the affected areas.

Covered Areas

The circular lists specific areas declared under a state of calamity, along with their respective resolution numbers and dates. These areas include:

• National Capital Region (Resolution No. 24-19, 24 July 2024)

• Bataan Province-Wide (Resolution No. 305-2024, 24 July 2024)

• Cavite Province-Wide (Resolution No. 3210-2024, 24 July 2024)

• San Mateo, Rizal (Resolution No. 327-2024, 25 July 2024)

• Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro (Resolution No. 250-2024)

• San Andres, Romblon (Resolution No. 58-2024, 23 July 2024)

• Baco, Oriental Mindoro (Resolution No. 121-2024, 24 July 2024)

• Butuan, Davao Occidental (Resolution No. 5-2024, 12 July 2024)

• Kabacan, Cotabato (Resolution No. 2024-091, 17 July 2024)

• Pikit, Cotabato (Resolution No. 24-068, 17 July 2024)

Additional areas may be declared under a state of calamity by the NDRRMC as needed.

Other Information

For inquiries, members are advised to visit any SSS branch, log on to www.sss.gov.ph, or call the hotline number 1455 for assistance.

Effectivity Clause

This circular takes effect immediately, ensuring that the assistance is promptly available to those in need.

Conclusion

The SSS Calamity Assistance Package is a crucial initiative aimed at providing financial relief to members and pensioners affected by recent natural disasters. By offering loans and advance pensions, the SSS ensures that its members can recover and rebuild their lives during these challenging times.

Reference: CI2024-044