SSS Distributes P32 Billion in Pensions to 3.6M Pensioners

The Social Security System (SSS) has announced the release of the 13th month and December pensions, amounting to P32.19 billion, benefiting over 3.6 million pensioners. This early distribution, which began as early as November 29, serves as a pre-Christmas gift to SSS and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners.

SSS Officer-in-Charge Voltaire P. Agas emphasized the importance of this early release, especially in light of the recent natural disasters that have impacted the country. "We are also aware of the plight of our pensioners who were not spared by the recent tropical cyclones that lashed the country in less than a month. The early crediting of these pensions can help address some of their financial needs as they try to rebuild their lives after a series of calamities struck the country," Agas stated.

The first batch of the 13th month and December pensions, totaling P17.9 billion, was distributed to 2.09 million pensioners on November 29. This batch covered pensioners with dates of contingency from the 1st to the 15th of the month. The second batch, released on December 4, benefited 1.52 million pensioners with a total of P14.3 billion, covering those with dates of contingency from the 16th to the end of the month.

Additionally, SSS has released around P41.6 million worth of 13th month and December pensions to over 6,000 pensioners through non-PESONet participating banks and checks. Agas noted that the Philippine Postal Corporation has been asked to expedite the delivery of checks to pensioners in their home addresses.

Since December 1988, the SSS has been granting the 13th month pension to SSS and EC pensioners, equivalent to their respective monthly pensions. This tradition recognizes the contributions of pensioners to the country during their working years. Retirement and survivor pensioners receive a 13th month pension equal to their regular monthly pensions, while total disability pensioners receive a 13th month pension equal to their monthly pensions without the medical allowance.

Agas also highlighted that children receiving dependent’s pensions and partial disability pensioners with a pension duration of at least 12 months are entitled to the 13th month pension. He concluded that the 13th month pension provided to SSS pensioners underscores the importance the pension fund places on its pensioners.

Reference: SSS releases over P32B 13th month and December pensions to 3.6M pensioners