Social Security System president Robert Joseph de Claro assured members in the Middle East on Thursday that they can access benefits and services through digital platforms despite escalating regional conflicts.
De Clario cited the reliability of the My.SSS Portal, which allows Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and loan applications without interruption if they meet qualifying conditions. The agency reported that as of December 2025, there were 1,476,645 OFWs covered by the system, with 540,018 of those recorded as active paying members.
Under the digital framework, OFWs who are involuntarily separated from their jobs can apply for unemployment benefits. This process requires members to meet specific qualifying conditions and obtain certification from the Department of Migrant Workers.
“Even in these challenging times, our digital infrastructure ensures seamless service delivery,” de Claro said.
“Members in the Middle East need not worry; they can manage their accounts safely from anywhere with internet access,” he said.
Pensioners residing in the conflict-affected region can also fulfill the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) requirement through a new facial authentication feature on the official website. The tool uses a liveness check to verify identity through smartphones, removing the necessity for physical travel or in-person appearances.
“A standout innovation is the ACOP Facial Authentication with Liveness Check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere,” de Claro said.
“It reduces fraud risks and eliminates the need for travel amid the current security situation in the Middle East. These tools were purpose-built to empower OFWs, allowing transactions ‘whenever, wherever’ even in crisis zones,” he said.
De Claro said the fund remains committed to supporting overseas workers through innovation and resilience regardless of geographical circumstances.
