The Social Security System (SSS) has released in two tranches this month some P18.8 billion in 13th-month pensions to almost 3.7 million pensioners.
In a statement on Tuesday, the state-run social insurance program and pension fund for private, professional, and informal sector workers said a total of P10.5 billion was credited to the bank accounts of its retired members in the first tranche on December 1.
The second batch credited on December 4 included 1.53 million pensioners, amounting to P8.3 billion, according to the SSS.
The Social Security Commission said that it successfully credited its annual cash gift to pensioners, ensuring additional financial support during the holiday season.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph de Claro said the annual cash gift is part of the agency’s commitment to support its pensioners during the holiday season.
“This is our way of giving back to our pensioners who have contributed to the System during their productive years. We hope this additional benefit brings joy and relief to them and their families this Christmas,” he said.
This year’s 13th-month pension is higher for pensioners as of August 31, following the implementation of the Pension Reform Program starting September 2025.
Under the reform program, retirement and disability pensioners received a 10% increase, while survivorship pensioners received a 5% increase, ensuring greater financial security for beneficiaries.
