Former Social Security System (SSS) president Rolando Macasaet is appealing to Malacañang to halt the mandated 15% contribution hike for its members, citing financial burdens on those with limited incomes.
In an interview with Dos Por Dos, the former SSS chief noted that he believes the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018, could be suspended if directed by the Office of the President.
Macasaet explained that the increase in SSS premium contributions was mandated by a law passed in 2019, which scheduled premium increases in 2020, 2023, and 2025—before his tenure as SSS president.
"Nagbibigay ako ng statement ngayon kasi sobrang taas," Macasaet said.
Macasaet cited examples to illustrate the impact of the hike. Voluntary members previously paying a minimum of 570 pesos per month will now pay 750 pesos, reflecting an increase of 180 pesos in monthly contributions.
Employees earning below 35,000 pesos, who were previously paying around 2,000 pesos, will now contribute 2,850 pesos. Those who were paying 1,300 pesos will now pay 1,750 pesos.
Macasaet emphasized that he is not only appealing to halt the increase but also proposing solutions, such as exempting employees earning below 35,000 pesos. He highlighted that the SSS is projected to generate an income of 420 billion pesos this year.
However, Macasaet clarified that he does not support completely suspending the implementation of the increase, as it would help ensure the long-term viability of the SSS. He instead suggested a gradual implementation of the contribution hike.
"Yung mga voluntary nagbabayad na halos mga farmers, fishermen, they are paying 570, hindi na nila kayang bayaran ang 750. Lalong hindi magbabayad mga 'yan, kawawa naman po," he said.
Macasaet, who served as SSS president from May 2023 until stepping down in October 2024 to run for Congress, noted that the pension fund remains financially robust, reporting an income of over P80 billion in 2023 and more than P100 billion in 2024.
Civil society groups and lawmakers have also called for the SSS to temporarily suspend the mandated increase in contributions, urging the agency to prioritize the well-being of its members during these challenging times.
