A brighter and more secure future awaits millions of Filipino pensioners as the Social Security System (SSS) officially rolled out its Pension Reform Program, granting incremental increases in monthly benefits over the next three years.
Details of the Pension Reform Program
During the agency’s 68th anniversary celebration in General Santos City, SSS Mindanao South 2 Division Acting Head Monique S. Alcantara announced that retirees, disability beneficiaries, and survivors will benefit from the program.
- Retirement and disability pensioners: 10% increase every year until 2027
- Survivor pensioners: 5% increase annually
- Total adjustment: By the end of three years, this translates to a 33% increase in benefits
“This reform is a long-awaited blessing for our members,” Alcantara said, crediting the initiative to the leadership of the current administration and SSS officials.
She emphasized that the increase is backed by strong actuarial studies, adding that while it will shorten the actuarial life of SSS funds by four years, the impact is significantly less than the 2016 hike that cut 10 years from the fund.
Who Will Benefit?
SSS General Santos Branch Acting Head Vivian K. Fullon clarified that the increase covers:
- All pensioners who started receiving benefits before September 1, 2025
- New retirees who will begin claiming pensions between 2025 and 2027
“This ensures fairness for all members—whether long-time pensioners or those newly retired,” Fullon explained.
Voices of the Pensioners
For many retirees, the increase is a welcome relief.
Jaime Capati, a pensioner, compared SSS contributions to a lifetime savings account:
“At first, the deductions felt heavy. But now, everything comes back. It’s like saving in a bank—safe and reliable in old age or sickness. Everyone should really remain active members.”
Meanwhile, Remigia Lumeran Pagaling, a fish cannery worker for over 30 years, expressed her excitement as she prepares to claim her pension this October:
“The SSS pension is a big help when we can no longer work. That’s why I encourage others to continue their contributions.”
Both also praised SSS for making its online services more efficient, allowing faster processing for members.
Looking Ahead
Alcantara noted that the reform addresses a long-standing demand for higher pensions, and the upcoming Pensioners’ Day celebration on September 12 will further honor retirees and disability beneficiaries.
Nationwide, the program is expected to benefit 3.8 million pensioners, including 2.6 million retirees and disability beneficiaries and 1.2 million survivors.
With its strengthened financial standing, SSS assures members that their contributions today are investments for a more secure tomorrow.