The state-run Social Security System said it is asking the help of lawmakers to implement the mandatory coverage of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) following its goal to expand its members’ coverage while providing security protection for the country’s new heroes. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said the shift to mandatory OFW coverage is one of the provisions of the proposed charter amendment the pension fund is pushing in the legislative stage. “Our objective is not just to strengthen enforcement of compliance for the coverage of employers and employees in the private sector, but also to encourage self-employed individuals and voluntary members like OFWs to register and be active in the system” he added.
“Hindi sapat na sumunod sila sa batas pagkatapos na lumabag dito para bigyang-katwiran ang pag-atras ng kaso laban sa kanila. Inuulit namin, oras na lumabag sa batas, kahit na inayos mo ito sa susunod na panahon, mapaparusahan pa din,” sabi ni Dooc. Sa ilalim ng SS Act, ang compulsory coverage ng employers ay magsisimula sa unang araw ng operasyon ng negosyo.