The state-run Social Security System lauded the decision of the Court of Appeals, affirming the prison term imposed by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court on celebrity dermatologist Joel Mendez for his failure to remit over P1.8 million in monthly premiums to the pension fund.
The pension fund also urged delinquent employers to apply for the ongoing contributions condonation penalty program.
SSS president and chief executive officer Aurora Ignacio said the decision of the CA to uphold the seven-year jail term for for Mendez’s violation of the Social Security Law of 1997 was a clear indication that no one was above the law.
“We are very pleased that the CA upheld the decision of the QC RTC. This serves as a reminder to employers on their obligations under the law to religiously remit to the SSS the monthly premiums of their employees,” said Ignacio.
Associate Justice Edwin Sorongon denied the appeal of Mendez and his plea to inhibit the appellate court justices from resolving his case.