SOURCE: PIA 10
In the heart of Northern Mindanao, the Social Security System (SSS) has taken a firm stance against delinquent employers. Through the Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) campaign, the SSS has successfully persuaded 67 employers to settle their dues, accumulating an impressive total of P5.35 million in 2023.
Out of 340 employers visited and reprimanded for non-compliance, these 67 employers represent a significant shift in the right direction. The campaign also prompted 110 employers to negotiate installment proposals, while 39 applied for condonation, proving the effectiveness of the campaign.
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"Our goal is to raise awareness not only for employers but also for employees," said Ira Levin A. Filoteo, the acting head of SSS Cagayan de Oro. The RACE campaign's primary objective is to empower employees, who are often the first to notice when contributions are not being fully remitted.
The campaign's strength lies in its balanced approach—it not only enforces compliance but also provides employers with a 30-day grace period to settle delinquencies before facing any legal action. This gesture emphasizes SSS's commitment to upholding the welfare and rights of employees while ensuring the proper remittance of contributions.
The SSS team hit the ground running on the first day of operation, visiting targeted business establishments in key areas of Cagayan de Oro City, including Lapasan, Gusa, Cugman, Barangay Nazareth, and Corrales Avenue.
The RACE operations aim to foster a culture of responsibility among employers, ensuring the timely remittance of employees' contributions. Through interactions and discussions, the SSS team clarified regulations, addressed concerns, and encouraged employers to fulfill their obligations promptly.
Valentine Aunzo, branch head of SSS CDO-Lapasan, commented on the significant impact of the RACE operation on collection and awareness. As a result, the SSS has decided to conduct RACE operations quarterly, amplifying their reach and impact.
Through face-to-face interactions, the SSS encourages employers to resolve any outstanding contributions on time. Compliance with the SSS Law not only protects the interests of employees but also contributes to the stability and sustainability of SSS benefits.
As the campaign progresses, SSS Cagayan de Oro remains committed to its mission of promoting social security and upholding the rights of workers across Northern Mindanao.
By conducting this activity quarterly, the campaign aims to cultivate a culture of compliance and accountability in the business community. This initiative brings mutual benefits to both employers and employees, creating a harmonious and secure work environment.
The RACE campaign is more than just an enforcement operation; it's a symbol of SSS's unwavering commitment to securing the rights and welfare of employees. It's a race worth running, and with each step, the SSS is inching closer to a future where every contribution counts.
