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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Banking & Finance devider SSS, EastWest Rural Bank bring MySSS Card to underserved areas

SSS, EastWest Rural Bank bring MySSS Card to underserved areas

Published Apr 6, 2026 11:38 am

State-run pension fund Social Security System (SSS) has partnered with EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) to expand access to MySSS Card, making it easier for members—especially those in remote and underserved communities—to access banking services and receive benefits.

Under the partnership, EWRB becomes the first rural bank issuer of MySSS Card, allowing members to use it both as an official SSS identification card and a fully functional debit card for benefit disbursement, digital payments, and day-to-day financial transactions.

The initiative aims to widen financial inclusion in areas with limited access to formal banking services, enabling more Filipinos to access their SSS benefits without the need to travel long distances. A streamlined application process will be available across EWRB’s 112 branches nationwide, as well as East West Banking Corp. (EastWest Bank) branches through cross-selling desks, many of which are located in Visayas and Mindanao.

During the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA), EWRB President Shiela Marasigan-Bajado and SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robert Joseph M. de Claro highlighted their shared goal of bringing financial services closer to Filipinos.

“We will waive maintaining balance requirements for MySSS cardholders, who may also earn interest once their balance reaches at least ₱500, allowing them to grow their savings while enjoying flexible account features,” Bajado said.

De Claro emphasized the card’s role in improving member experience and strengthening the efficiency of benefit disbursements, noting that accounts are automatically enrolled with SSS. “MySSS Card also empowers SSS to deliver seamless digital payment solutions for registrants, members, pensioners, and beneficiaries,” he said.

He added that the card integrates verification checks with the national ID database to ensure accurate identification and secure disbursement of benefits and loan proceeds.

The MySSS Card program builds on EWRB’s broader push to expand financial access in rural communities, including offering accessible savings products, simplified account opening, and digital banking channels. The rural lender has also maintained a longstanding partnership with SSS, dating back to 2017, when it was recognized in SSS Balikat ng Bayan Awards for its performance as a collecting and paying partner.

“Our goal has always been to make essential financial services accessible to every Filipino wherever they are,” Bajado said. “Through the MySSS Card Program, we are proud to support SSS in bringing secure and convenient banking closer to the communities that need it most.”

Related Tags

Social Security System (SSS) EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) Robert Joseph M. de Claro MySSS Card
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