BAGUIO City Representative Mark Go filed House Resolution (HR) 2157 on Tuesday, urging the Social Security System (SSS) to delay its scheduled contribution rate hike.
The resolution seeks to provide relief to Filipinos burdened by rising inflation and cost of living.
The SSS contribution rate is set to increase to 15 percent this January, up from 14 percent in 2024.
This marks the final tranche of hikes under Republic Act No. 11199, enacted in 2019.
Go emphasized that postponing the hike would offer low-income earners some respite amid soaring commodity prices.
He noted that SSS revenue grew by 15.6 percent in 2023, reaching P353.82 billion from P306.16 billion in 2022, suggesting the agency could afford a temporary suspension.
He also highlighted inefficiencies in collection efforts, pointing out that in 2023, SSS collected only P4.581 billion of the P93.747 billion owed by delinquent employers.
“This equates to P89.17 billion in uncollected premiums,” Go said, calling for improved collection measures before implementing the rate hike.
Rizal 4th District Representative Fidel Nograles joined the appeal, urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize efficient collection systems over increased contributions.
He suggested that a gradual increase could ease the burden on workers.
“If deferring the hike won’t harm SSS funds, compassion for Filipinos should take precedence,” Nograles added.
