PROVIDING social security protection to members of vulnerable sectors of society is a major challenge for the government.

Without doubt, the authorities are concerned over the welfare of these millions of people across the Philippines.

Truth is, the Social Security System (SSS) has already offered to provide social security protection to beneficiaries of 4Ps.

With 4.4 million beneficiaries, 4Ps is the government’s highly-successful Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

Under the program, the government gives cash subsidies to the poorest families, notably with children 0-14 years old.

This is to help these families improve their health, nutrition and education, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The SSS and DSWD have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) allowing beneficiaries of 4Ps to become SSS members and have access to social security benefits.

Under the MOA, the SSS will develop an “AlkanSSSya” program, a savings scheme inspired by a piggy bank concept – that is customized for 4Ps members.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian was quick to explain, however, that the contributions to the SSS would be voluntary.

And that the cash grants provided to 4Ps members cannot be used for contributions.

Certainly, the government, through the SSS, is on the right track in looking after the welfare of Filipinos.

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