Status of pensioner’s 2 requests clarified

This is regarding the complaint of Pilar R. Oringo that was mentioned in the column “Heroes and bureaucrats” by Ramon J. Farolan in the Inquirer’s Feb. 27  issue.

We would like to clarify the following:

1. “…she narrates that due to a ‘prescriptive period’ having lapsed, the Social Security System denied her request for adjustment in their pensions.”

According to SSS Davao, Oringo’s request for adjustment of her own retirement pension was granted in July 2011.

However, with respect to her request to adjust her deceased husband’s retirement pension, we need to resubmit her request to the Benefits Administration Division for further evaluation.

2. “…I would like to manifest my reaction to the manner I was notified of SSS’ response to my letter… To say I was disappointed is an understatement.”

In behalf of the SSS, we would like to apologize to Oringo if she felt offended with the way she was notified regarding her request for adjustment. Rest assured that we will take note of this matter so that we can improve our service to our members.

—MARISSU G. BUGANTE, vice president, Public Affairs and Special Events Division,

Social Security System