THE Social Security System (SSS) announced today that it has released ₱32.19 billion in 13th month and December pensions to more than 3.6 million pensioners, with disbursements starting as early as November 29.
SSS Officer-in-Charge Voltaire P. Agas said the early release of pensions serves as a pre-Christmas gift to SSS and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners, while also offering support to those affected by recent calamities.
“We recognize the plight of our pensioners, many of whom were impacted by the recent tropical cyclones. The early release of their pensions aims to address immediate financial needs as they rebuild their lives,” Agas said.
Details of Pension Releases
Agas outlined the staggered disbursement schedule:
First Batch (November 29): ₱17.9 billion distributed to 2.09 million pensioners with contingency dates between the 1st and 15th of the month.
Second Batch (December 4): ₱14.3 billion released to 1.52 million pensioners with contingency dates from the 16th to the end of the month.
Additionally, ₱41.6 million was allocated to over 6,000 pensioners through non-PESONet participating banks and checks. For pensioners receiving checks, SSS has requested the Philippine Postal Corporation to expedite delivery.
Pensioners who availed of an advance 18-month pension also received their 13th month pensions on December 4.
A 36-Year Tradition
Since 1988, the SSS has granted the 13th month pension as a way of enhancing benefits and recognizing pensioners’ contributions during their productive years.
Eligibility:
Retirement and survivor pensioners receive an amount equivalent to their monthly pensions.
Total disability pensioners receive the same, excluding the medical allowance.
Dependents receiving pensions and partial disability pensioners (with a duration of at least 12 months) are also eligible.
Agas emphasized that the annual 13th month pension highlights SSS’s commitment to supporting its pensioners. “This benefit underscores the importance we place on our pensioners, recognizing their invaluable contributions to society,” he concluded.