Sandy
From January to May 2025, the Social Security System (SSS) successfully extended its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) program to benefit 243 employees across the fifth and sixth districts of Pangasinan.
Employers Flagged for Violations in SSS Compliance
According to Christopher Servas, head of the SSS Urdaneta branch, the workers affected are employed by 37 different businesses that were found non-compliant with SSS regulations.
The violations involved failure to register and non-remittance of employee contributions.
Of the 37 businesses:
- 36 are from the retail sector, composed of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)
- 1 is a corporation
- The flagged businesses are located in Rosales, Asingan, San Manuel, and Urdaneta City
Legal Action and Settlements: Updates So Far
Out of the 37 employers:
- 11 cases have been escalated to the SSS legal department and issued final demand letters
- 8 employers have already cleared their delinquency in contributions totaling ₱360,158
Guidance and Compliance Support for Employers
Servas emphasized that affected employees were made aware of their contributions and reassured that their SSS benefits remain accessible as long as employers comply.
To encourage voluntary compliance, the SSS is offering installment payment options for delinquent employers.
Under the Social Security Act of 2018 (RA 11199):
- Employers are given 15 days after receiving written notice to settle their arrears
- Failure to comply could result in:
- Fines between ₱5,000 to ₱20,000
- Imprisonment from 6 to 12 years
“We recognize that some businesses face difficulties, so we assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities,” said Servas.
Delinquency Recovery and Regional Scope
The SSS is currently focused on collecting an estimated ₱3.1 million in total delinquent contributions and penalties from non-compliant employers.
Areas Covered by SSS Urdaneta Branch
| Cities & Towns |
|---|
| Urdaneta City |
| Asingan |
| Binalonan |
| Pozorrubio |
| Rosales |
| San Nicolas |
| San Quintin |
| Sta. Maria |
| Tayug |
| Umingan |
| Villasis |
About the RACE Program
The RACE initiative was created to enforce employer compliance with SSS regulations. It aims to identify and penalize employers who fail to:
- Register employees with the SSS
- Remit employee contributions regularly
Through the program, employees are safeguarded from losing their SSS benefits, and employers are reminded of their legal obligations.
The continued implementation of the SSS RACE program in Pangasinan reflects the agency’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting responsible business practices.
By holding errant employers accountable and offering support systems like installment payment schemes, SSS ensures that employees across the region can rightfully access their benefits.
As recovery efforts continue, the program remains an essential enforcement and educational tool.
FAQs
What happens if an employer doesn’t comply within 15 days?
Employers who fail to settle dues within the timeframe risk penalties up to ₱20,000 or imprisonment of 6 to 12 years under RA 11199.
How can employers settle their SSS contribution delinquency?
They can visit their local SSS branch to arrange installment payment options and avoid legal consequences.
Are employees still eligible for SSS benefits if their employer is delinquent?
Yes, the SSS ensures employees are informed of their status, and contributions are followed up so benefits can still be claimed once remittance is completed.