SSS told Vigan City employers: Comply with SSS obligations under the law

Vigan City—The Social Security System (SSS) has issued written notices to 31 erring employers for violating Republic Act No.11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018 during a recent Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operation in the city.

SSS Vigan Branch Head Cecille Sally warned that the 31 business establishments included general merchandise, pharmacy, food establishments, a school, ready-to-wear (RTW) stores, and health and wellness shops should comply with the law.

Sally said that of the 31 business establishments, 20 of them have failed to present any proof of SSS membership of their employees and documents to support their contribution remittances such as payroll records and collection list.

“We have also identified seven employers who did not register their businesses with the SSS while two employer under reported the number of his workers. Moreover, two business owners failed to remit more than P90,000 worth of employees’ contributions,” Sally added.

She emphasized that under Republic Act No. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, employers should register their businesses with the SSS and secure an Employer ID Number. They must report their employees to the SSS within 30 days of their hiring date.

She added that employers must deduct their share of the monthly Social Security (SS) contributions from employees’ salaries and remit these to the SSS with the employer’s share of contributions and Employees’ Compensation (EC) within the prescribed schedule.

“They must also maintain true and accurate records of employees such as employment and payroll records, official receipts as proof of payments of monthly contributions and loan amortizations, amounts deducted from salaries, including records of sickness, injuries, and death of employees in manual logbook or electronic file for work-connected contingencies. These documents should be always updated and ready for inspection,” Sally explained.

Meanwhile, Sally appealed to all Vigan employers to abide by their obligations under the law. “There were 190 employees affected, whose social security was put into jeopardy because of their negligence. Please prioritize their compliance so that their workers can maximize the full range of SSS benefits and privileges in times of need.”

Sally added that employers with pending financial obligations can use the contribution penalty condonation and installment payment programs to settle their arrears.

“Failure to comply with the violation notice within 15 days upon receipt shall compel SSS to pursue legal actions against delinquent employers through our Cluster legal Unit,” Sally said.

Employers proven guilty of violating RA 11199 will face six years and one day to 12 years of imprisonment and pay a fine of P5,000 up to P20,000.

This year, SSS Vigan and other SSS branches nationwide will implement a monthly RACE campaign to raise awareness among employers who continue to ignore their employees’ right to social security protection.