By: Jocelyn P. Alvarez
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IX has partnered with Social Security System (SSS) in a Memorandum of Agreement for the implementation of AlkanSSSya Program of the SSS to intensify its coverage and social security protection for all contractual and Job-order workers of the social welfare department.
AlkanSSSya scheme is derived from the piggy-bank like savings systems commonly practiced by Filipino households which allow members to daily deposit a minimum amount. It is an easy and affordable way to save and even a convenient way of accumulation savings for the SSS Monthly contribution Payments.
The method helps the beneficiaries build up enough funds by the end of the 30-day period to meet the required amount for their monthly SSS contributions of P330 as each of them are asked to commit at least P11 per day to be deposited or dropped in the AlkanSSSya. Asking them to commit a few coins every day is not as painful as shelling out P330 in one go.
The cabinet type piggy bank, will serve as a coin bank or depository for each member’s daily contribution.
The contribution will be counted and remitted monthly to the SSS, assisted and witnessed by members and SSS account officers.
AlkanSSSya program is intended for informal sector workers and self-employed individuals who find it hard to pay their monthly contribution in full due to low or limited income.
The MOA signing was led by DSWD’s Regional Director, Zenaida L. Arevalo together with Ms.Elizabeth Cabatingan, Branch Head of SSS Zamboanga Branch, Mr.Riduan Hadjimuddin, DSWD’s Assistant.
Regional Director for Administration, Mrs. Herminia Bazan, DSWD’s Personnel Officer and SSS staff who served as witnesses. A ceremonial turned-over of AlkanSSSya key followed after the MOA signing.
The AlkanSSSya Program shall benefit personnel to have protection against hazards of disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death and other contingencies that the SSS offers.