SSS belongs to the members

Dear SSS Chair Amado D. Valdez,

It was announced that the Social Security System has problems raising funds for “realistic” benefits planned for SSS members. Frankly, I do not see the problem. You do not have to go far to find the requisite fund. Let me tell you how.

I was one of the original employees of the Social Security Commission established in 1954 under the leadership and chairmanship of Gonzalo W. Gonzales. His single rule at that time was to keep the salaries of employees at respectable levels and not to eat up the money of members. The rule that the SSS belonged to the members was respected throughout his term, despite SSS workers’ demands. Despite the disappointment felt, there was much respect for him in keeping true to his mandate. In short, the welfare of the workers whose money was in fact supporting the existence of the SSS was respected as the people’s money, and that the officials were paid to protect the people’s contribution.

In all the discussions that I hear today on the proposed increase of premiums in order to support further operations, there is absolutely no mention of the money coming from the direction of the commissioners, a review and moderation of their own salaries, bonuses, etc. How much are they getting for their “labor”? What percentage of the people’s money goes to them? I challenge them to voluntarily reduce their take-home pay and “undeclared” income.

It is time to be more candid about this for the sake of truth and justice.

REMEDIOS C. BALBIN, PhD,

Foundation for Social Justice,

[email protected]