SSS conducts RACE in Negros Occidental

The Social Security System (SSS) continues to remind erring employers of their legal obligations under the Republic Act No. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018 during its Run After Contributions Evaders (RACE) Campaign in the cities of Silay and La Castellana, Negros Occidental on Monday, December 12.

Three sugarcane plantation owners, a restaurant, a common carrier and a fireworks distributor received written orders from the RACE Team headed by SSS Visayas West 1 Division Head Lilani B. Benedian for non-remittance of contributions and non-production of monthly collection list.

“These employers may opt to avail of the Contribution Penalty Condonation, Delinquency Management and Restructuring Program (CPCoDe MRP) which offers flexible installment terms ranging from twelve to 48 months, depending on the delinquency amount,” Benedian said.

The collection of P1.9 million in contribution delinquency after the operations will benefit at least 100 employees.

Employers are mandated by the law to register their businesses and report for coverage all their employees, regardless of the status of their employment; deduct from the salaries of their employees their share in the monthly contribution; pay their own share of Social Security (SS) contributions including Employee’s Compensation (EC); and remit these regularly to the SSS through accredited payment channels.

Failure or refusal to comply with the provisions of the said law is punishable by a fine of not less than P5,000.00 but not more than P20,000.00 or imprisonment for not less than six years and one day or more than twelve years, or both, at the discretion of the court.

“Delinquent employers may visit the SSS branch which has jurisdiction over their registered business address for assistance in the application for Condonation,” Benedian said.

Since March of this year, SSS Visayas West 1 Division has conducted a total of 12 RACE operations covering the provinces of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor. As of November 2022, 42 out of 75 employers who were subjected to the operations have already complied with the SSS with an initial collection of P7.1 million.