The Social Security System (SSS) announced it has released PHP 32.19 billion in 13th month and December pensions to more than 3.6 million pensioners, with distribution starting as early as November 29.
SSS Officer-in-Charge Voltaire P. Agas said the early release of the 13th month and December 2024 pensions was intended as a pre-Christmas gift for Social Security System and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners.
“We understand the challenges our pensioners face, especially those affected by the recent tropical cyclones. The early release of these pensions aims to help them address financial needs as they recover from the calamities,” Agas said.
The first batch of pensions, worth PHP 17.9 billion, was distributed on November 29 to 2.09 million pensioners whose contingency dates fall between the first and 15th of the month.
The second batch, amounting to PHP 14.3 billion, was released on December 4. This benefited 1.52 million pensioners with contingency dates between the 16th and the end of the month.
Additionally, Agas said the SSS disbursed around PHP 41.6 million to more than 6,000 pensioners through non-PESONet participating banks and checks.
“Pensioners in non-PESONet participating banks received their pensions on December 4. Meanwhile, we have requested the Philippine Postal Corporation to expedite the delivery of checks to pensioners’ home addresses,” Agas noted.
Pensioners who availed of the advance 18-month pensions for their initial benefit also received their 13th month pensions on December 4.
A Tradition Since 1988
The SSS has granted the 13th month pension to SSS and EC pensioners every December since 1988. This annual tradition, now in its 36th year, enhances pensioners’ benefits and recognizes their contributions to the country during their productive years.
Retirement and survivor pensioners receive a 13th month pension equivalent to their monthly pension, while total disability pensioners get the same amount excluding the medical allowance.
“Children receiving dependent pensions are also entitled to the 13th month pension. Partial disability pensioners can avail of this benefit if their pension duration is at least 12 months,” Agas added.
He concluded that the 13th month pension underscores the SSS’s commitment to supporting its pensioners.
