SSS releases P32.19-B in 13th month and December pensions

CEBU, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) announced the release of P32.19 billion in 13th month and December 2024 pensions to more than 3.6 million pensioners, starting as early as November 29, 2024.

In a statement, SSS Officer-in-Charge Voltaire P. Agas reported that the early release of the pensions is part of the agency’s effort to provide financial relief and spread holiday cheer to its members.

“This is our pre-Christmas gift to SSS and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners,” Agas said.

Agas emphasized that the early distribution of pensions is also intended to help pensioners affected by recent tropical cyclones.

“We understand the struggles of our pensioners who were impacted by the calamities. These funds can assist them in rebuilding their lives,” he added.

On November 29, 2024 SSS released P17.9 billion to 2.09 million pensioners whose contingency dates fall between the 1st and 15th of the month.

The second batch of the disbursement was on December 4, 2024 with another P14.3 billion credited to 1.52 million pensioners with contingency dates between the 16th and the end of the month.

In addition, SSS disbursed P41.6 million to over 6,000 pensioners through non-PESONet participating banks and checks.

Agas noted that checks are being delivered through the Philippine Postal Corporation, and efforts are being made to expedite the process.

Meanwhile, pensioners who availed of the advance 18-month pension for their initial benefits also received their 13th month pension on December 4.

The 13th month pension has been a tradition of the SSS since 1988, providing pensioners with an additional benefit equivalent to their monthly pension.

The 13th month beneficiaries include: retirement and survivor pensioners, total disability pensioners, dependent’s pension and partial disability pensioners.  — (FREEMAN)