CLARK FREEPORT — Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Social Security System (SSS) have recently forged a partnership to expand essential social security coverage to contract of service (COS) employees of the state-owned firm.
The memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed between CDC, led by CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, and SSS, represented by Executive Vice President for Branch Operations Sector Head Atty. Voltaire Agas, aims to bridge the gaps in coverage, particularly targeting COS in government employment who are not covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Law.
This initiative will allow these personnel access to benefits such as disability, sickness, maternity, old age, and death benefits offered by SSS.
In her message, Atty. Devandera emphasized the significance of the said agreement for all CDC employees.
“It’s rewarding to address the needs of those falling through the cracks. These COS are not covered by GSIS, and now we have SSS to support them,” she said.
“During our meeting, your president (SSS) stressed the option for two tracks: coverage for those not part of GSIS and voluntary continuation of SSS funds for those who may still want to continue their SSS funds even though they are already under GSIS. That is a lot of consolation for our employees who would like to maximize the benefits,” she added.
For his part, Atty. Agas highlighted that this partnership is part of their KASSSanga Collect Program, aimed at extending benefits and services to more employees.
“We extend our gratitude to CDC for the warm reception that you are giving to our KASSSanga Collect Program. This will provide coverage for hardworking Contract of Services workers of CDC as well as those who would like to continue their SSS contribution as self-employed members,” Atty. Agas said.
“Ang pangunahing layunin po natin ay para sa mga job order at COS workers po natin para mabigyan ng mga biyaya na natatamo ng mga regular na empleyado,” he added.
Under the terms, CDC committed to assisting its COS in becoming SSS self-employed members and supports regular or permanent employees in continuing their contributions as voluntary members. CDC will also facilitate the remittance of monthly Social Security (SS) and Employees’ Compensation (EC) contributions for these employees.
SSS, on the other hand, pledged to conduct on-site registration, provide necessary support, and monitor contributions and benefits for CDC’s employees. This partnership aims to enhance social security coverage for a significant segment of the workforce, ensuring a more comprehensive safety net for employees under CDC.