SSS sees improved employer compliance in W. Visayas

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Social Security System (SSS) reported improved employer compliance and expanded access to member benefits in Western Visayas following the continued implementation of its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operations.

The RACE program identifies and compels delinquent employers to register their businesses, remit unpaid contributions, and settle penalties to ensure employees receive mandated benefits and to enforce Republic Act No. 11199 (Social Security Law).

The initiative includes on-site inspections and, when applicable, the offering of flexible payment arrangements.

SSS Visayas West 2 Division senior communications analyst Amiel Y. Genova said inspections conducted in various establishments have resulted in higher compliance rates and enabled more employees to access their benefits.

“Our RACE operations have been very successful. We can see this in the compliance rate of employers when we visit certain establishments, and also in the feedback from our members who were able to avail of benefits because their employers complied,” he said in an interview on the sidelines of the agency’s Media Appreciation Day on Dec. 12.

He assured that SSS will continue conducting RACE operations beyond this year to ensure employees can fully benefit from SSS services.

“We will continue as long as there are employers who need to be reminded of their compliance responsibilities to their employees,” he added.

He noted that 12 RACE operations were conducted in Iloilo, while a total of 60 were carried out across Panay Island and Guimaras.

In addition to enforcement efforts, Genova said SSS is expanding programs that bring services closer to members, including the SSS e-Wheels mobile service initiative.

“We have many activities lined up next year for our members, including the continuation of our e-Wheels program,” he said.

The SSS e-Wheels program uses specially equipped vans to deliver SSS services directly to communities, particularly in remote areas and among informal sector workers.

Through the mobile units, members can apply for SSS numbers, update records, process loans, generate payment reference numbers, enroll in the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module, and file benefit claims without visiting a physical branch.

Genova said these programs have a significant impact, as enforcement through RACE ensures employer compliance while mobile services like e-Wheels make it easier for employees to access SSS benefits and complete transactions.