By Michelle Ducut
The Social Security System (SSS) Urdaneta City branch has collected PHP2.85 million from 137 delinquent employers through its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) program from January to December 2024, benefiting 472 employees in the region.
Branch head Christopher Servas reported in an interview on Thursday that the amount was recovered during 16 RACE operations conducted in Urdaneta City and the municipalities of Asingan, Binalonan, Pozorrubio, Rosales, San Nicolas, San Quintin, Sta. Maria, Tayug, Umingan, and Villasis.
Of the delinquent employers identified, 72 were cited for non-registration with the SSS, while 65 were found non-compliant in remitting employee contributions.
“The SSS RACE program aims to ensure that employers fulfill their legal obligations to employees under the Social Security Act of 2018. This is not intended as punishment but as a reminder of the importance of compliance, benefiting both employers and employees,” Servas explained.
Employers served with notices are granted a 15-day period to comply with Republic Act No. 11199 to avoid penalties ranging from PHP5,000 to PHP20,000 and/or imprisonment of six to 12 years.
Servas encouraged employers to settle their obligations promptly, highlighting that compliance guarantees employees receive their rightful social security benefits.
The branch reported an additional PHP5.3 million in collectibles from various employers under its jurisdiction, with payment arrangements ranging from installment agreements to cases undergoing legal processes.
To assist struggling employers, SSS offers the Contribution Penalty Condonation, Delinquency Management, and Restructuring Program (CPCoDe MRP). This program allows employers to settle unpaid contributions with a six percent annual interest rate while waiving accrued penalties.