The Social Security System (SSS) has officially implemented a pension increase beginning this September, providing millions of Filipino retirees and beneficiaries with higher benefits for the first time in 11 years, as reported by RH Leth Narciso.
The adjustment comes under the newly launched Pension Reform Program, spearheaded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which ensures annual increases every September until 2027.
Retirement and disability pensioners will receive a 10% hike, while death and survivor pensioners will see a 5% increase.
Speaking at the program’s launch, President Marcos underscored the government’s commitment to honoring the contributions of Filipino workers who have spent their lives in service and labor.
“Tinitiyak natin na ang mga taon ng kanilang pagsisikap ay may kapalit na kahit kaunting ginhawa sa kanilang pagretiro. Ang SSS, kasama na rin diyan ang GSIS, ay sumasagisag sa pangako ng pamahalaan na ang bawat pilipino, nasa pribado o pampublikong sektor man ay may karapatan magkaroon ng seguridad at dignidad sa kanilang pagtanda,” the President declared in his speech.
Nearly four million pensioners are expected to benefit from the reform. For many, the additional income will help cover daily expenses, rising healthcare costs, and other necessities as inflation continues to affect household budgets.
The SSS pension hike is seen as a landmark development, as it is the first time the agency has raised pensions since its establishment. The move also aligns with the administration’s broader push to strengthen social protection systems, alongside the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), to ensure that both private and public sector workers are cared for in retirement.
