CEBU, Philippines — The Philippines’ Social Security System (SSS) has stepped up enforcement efforts against non-compliant employers in Panglao Island, a key tourism destination in Bohol province, in a bid to safeguard the benefits of over 4,000 employees.
During a recent “Run After Contribution Evaders” (RACE) operation, the SSS issued formal notices to six businesses for failing to remit a combined P1.3 million in mandatory employee contributions, including associated penalties. These delinquencies risk depriving workers of essential social security benefits, according to the agency.
“SSS will not hesitate to call out and pursue legal action against employers who violate their obligation to remit contributions,” said Eric A. Coronado, Acting Head of the SSS Visayas Central 1 Division.
“We are committed to ensuring that employees, especially in tourism-dependent areas like Panglao, are not denied their rightful social protection,” Coronado added.
The compliance campaign is being carried out in coordination with Panglao’s Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), as part of a broader effort to monitor the municipality’s estimated 2,664 registered businesses — many of which operate in the hospitality sector.
Out of these, only 925 establishments are registered with the SSS. Coronado said the agency will shift its focus to over 1,000 businesses currently operating without SSS compliance.
“Our goal is to bring these businesses into the fold, ensuring timely remittance of contributions to protect the benefits and loan eligibility of their workers,” he said.
The SSS noted a sharp increase in employer registrations in Bohol in recent years. Its Tagbilaran branch recorded a 218 percent year-on-year surge in 2022, with an average of 20 new employer registrations per month in 2024, each covering around 76 employees.
The Panglao enforcement action is part of a broader crackdown in the Visayas region. Since the start of 2025, the SSS has conducted 29 RACE operations across Cebu and Bohol, recovering P6.6 million in delinquent contributions.