Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday told thousands of barangay officials throughout the country that they may soon become members of the Social Security System (SSS), which will be funded by the national government.
At the same time, he informed members of the Liga ng Mga Barangay holding its National Congress at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Pasay City that he authored a bill in the House of Representatives that would grant barangay officers a fixed term of office for six years.
He said he has already met with the president of SSS on his advocacy of making barangay officials as members of the pension fund, so they could be covered by life insurance and enjoy lifetime pension.
“I had a conversation recently with the SSS President to meet your need for protection or security while you are in service,” Romualdez told barangay officials present in his speech delivered in Tagalog.
“I hope that soon, all of you will be members of the SSS. As soon as this happens, you will immediately be given life insurance and as we continue to save in the SSS fund, you can also qualify for a lifetime pension,” he added.
Romualdez said the House is considering approving a bill mandating local government units to set aside funds for the monthly SSS premium contribution of barangay officers. “This way, you won’t have to think about the monthly SSS contribution.”
The seasoned politician out of Leyte pointed out that he and his colleagues understand the grassroots leaders’ anxiety on their welfare and that of their families while they are serving their communities.
“Before you go out, those who are not members of the SSS, you can register,” Romualdez said, noting the SSS has set up 50 computer terminals at the lobby of the WTC to accommodate the registration of village officials.
Following the message of Romualdez, SSS President Rolando Macasaet said that apart from the SSS insurance coverage and pension benefits, the House Speaker also sought the condonation of penalties for unpaid loans of village officials who are already members of the pension system.
Macasaet said the village officials could pay the balance of the principal in the next five years.
Meanwhile, with respect to his proposal to give barangay officers a term of office of six years, Romualdez urged barangay officers to contribute their inputs on measures that would benefit them.
He highlighted the important role they play in linking their communities to the national government and in delivering public services.
Romualdez told them that they are likewise the voice of their constituents. He thanked them for their tireless service to their communities.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline Romualdez eyes life insurance coverage, pension benefits for barangay officials
