SSS releases P205.56 billion in benefits

CEBU, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) has released a total of ?205.56 billion in benefits to members, pensioners, and beneficiaries from January to July 2026.

Retirement and death benefits accounted for the largest portion of the benefits released, amounting to ?180.86 billion.

This includes ?110.83 billion for regular pensioners and ?43.89 billion for survivor pensioners.

SSS is also implementing the Pension Reform Program which will have annual pension increases from 2025 to 2027.

This 2026, an estimated ?6 billion in additional pension benefits will be released to help pensioners cope with the impact of inflation and rising energy costs.

Meanwhile, members' contributions reached ?235.33 billion from January to July, while SSS's total revenue amounted to ?268.14 billion.

Its investment portfolio also increased to ?1.29 trillion as of July, with an annualized return on investment of 4.64%.

The SSS has also expanded its emergency loan program where qualified members can borrow up to ?20,000, with 7% interest per annum and a six-month repayment moratorium.

Also launched was SSS LoanLite, a digital short-term loan facility that can be accessed through participating financial institutions.

As of July, SSS had 44.25 million covered members and over one million active employers nationwide.

SSS has also developed the Energy Sustainability Loan Program, where qualified members can borrow up to ?400,000 for the installation of a solar panel system in their home.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro said SSS will continue to strengthen its financial foundation, expand social protection, and improve services as it heads into its 70th year.

The 69th anniversary of the SSS follows the theme “Bawat Isa Protektado, Bawat Bukas Suretado.” — (FREEMAN)