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SSS ensures OFWs can access benefits online despite regional tensions

Business | The Economy

SSS ensures OFWs can access benefits online despite regional tensions

By Manila Bulletin Newsroom

State-run pension fund Social Security System (SSS) has reassured its members in the Middle East that they can continue accessing benefits and services through its digital platforms, even amid escalating regional conflicts.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robert Joseph M. de Claro emphasized the reliability of the My.SSS Portal, which allows overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and loan applications without interruption, provided they meet qualifying conditions.

For instance, OFWs who were involuntarily separated can avail of unemployment benefits if they satisfy the requirements and are certified by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

“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 added.

De Claro also highlighted that SSS pensioners in the region can comply with the annual confirmation of pensioners (ACOP) through the recently launched facial authentication feature on the SSS website, www.sss.gov.ph.

“A standout innovation is the ACOP facial authentication with liveness check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere,” the SSS chief noted.

“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.”

As of end-2025, SSS coverage included 1,476,645 OFWs, with 540,018 as active paying members.

“We remain committed to supporting our OFWs through innovation and resilience, no matter the circumstances,” according to de Claro.

Related Tags

Social Security System (SSS) Robert Joseph M. de Claro overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)

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