The Social Security System (SSS), the state-run pension fund for private-sector workers, has disbursed ₱18.8 billion in 13th-month pensions to 3.7 million pensioners.
In a statement on Tuesday, Dec. 9, the SSS confirmed that the annual 13th-month pension has been credited to beneficiaries, following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick D. Go to the Social Security Commission (SSC).
DOF Secretary Go, who chairs the SSC—the SSS’ highest policy-making body—underscored the importance of this benefit.
“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,” said SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robert Joseph M. de Claro, noting that “the annual cash gift is part of the SSS’ commitment to support its pensioners during the holiday season.”
The SSS said the 13th-month pension was released in two batches this December.
The first batch, on Dec. 1, credited around 2.13 million pensioners with ₱10.5 billion, while the second batch, on Dec. 4, reached 1.53 million pensioners, totaling ₱8.3 billion.
Altogether, ₱18.8 billion was distributed to approximately 3.66 million pensioners.
“This year’s 13th-month pension is higher for pensioners as of Aug. 31, 2025, following the implementation of the pension reform program starting September. Under this reform program, retirement and disability pensioners received a 10-percent increase, while survivorship pensioners received a five-percent increase, ensuring greater financial security for beneficiaries,” the SSS added.
The SSS noted that the 13th-month pension is automatically credited to retirees’ accounts and urged pensioners to update their bank details to avoid delays.
The SSS assured the public of its commitment to the prudent management of members’ funds.
The Commission on Audit (COA) issued an unmodified opinion for 2024, affirming the pension fund’s financial integrity and sound governance, while ongoing audit observations are being addressed. (Ricardo M. Austria)
