“We are still on the process of laying out the system in place first before we can launch this program and our [members] can also prepare for this if they are interested.” said Marissu G. Bugante, SSS VicePresident for Public Affairs and Special Events Division. The said fund is a form of investment program which will enable all members to put on additional savings on top of their regular contribution to SSS. This fund will give members earnings rates that are higher than what regular saving deposit offers. The contribution can also 14
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be made anytime and does not have a fixed deadline like the regular monthly contribution. Members can withdraw their earned savings in three ways: through lump sum, as regular monthly pension or combination of both once they reached the retirement age of 60. This fund is meant for those who will retire and those who are totally disabled, among others. Self-employed, OFWs, regular employees and voluntary members can enroll under this program. Under this program, OFWs and the self-employed will
Friday, December 9, 2011
be required to pay a monthly contribution of P1,560 for at least six consecutive months before they can enroll in the provident fund. Regular employees will pay the said fee on top of their regular SSS contributions. Bugante was guest at the program “Talking Points” sponsored by the Philippine Communication and Operations Office (PCOO), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and the Philippine Broadcasting Service (PBS). The program was simultaneously aired over People’s Television (PTV-4) and Radyo ng Bayan.