In the Philippines, the Social Security System (SSS) plays a crucial role in protecting the welfare of employees.
One of its initiatives is the Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE), which encourages employers to fulfill their mandatory contribution obligations to their employees.
In 2024, the SSS Urdaneta Branch conducted 16 RACE operations within its jurisdiction to ensure employers are meeting their obligations in providing employees with the social security benefits they deserve.
Purpose of SSS RACE
Christopher Servas, acting head of SSS Urdaneta, explained, “The SSS RACE initiative targets employers who fail to fulfill their SSS responsibilities. This is not a punishment but a friendly reminder about the importance of complying with SSS regulations, benefiting both employers and employees.”
By addressing these issues, the program ensures employees receive their rightful benefits and promotes a fair business environment.
A 15-day extension is granted to delinquent employers who receive a written notice to comply with Republic Act No. 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018, to avoid penalties ranging from P5,000 to P20,000 and/or imprisonment from six years to 12 years.
Success of 2024 SSS RACE
Servas reported that SSS Urdaneta, through its RACE campaign, successfully collected P2,848,047.09 this year from 137 delinquent employers — 72 for non-registration and 65 for non-remittance of contributions — mainly micro-small businesses.
This significant amount benefits 472 employees, ensuring their access to social security benefits and services.
To date, there are 22 non-registration employers awaiting compliance at the end of the year, with a total collectible amount of P5,308,538.32 from employers with approved installments, cases, final demand letters, billing letters, and those referred for filing cases.
Servas stated, “We urge all delinquent employers to promptly settle their obligations with SSS Urdaneta. Compliance ensures employees receive the social security benefits they are entitled to.”
The towns and city under SSS Urdaneta’s jurisdiction are Urdaneta City and the towns of Asingan, Binalonan, Pozorrubio, Rosales, San Nicolas, San Quintin, Sta. Maria, Tayug, Umingan, and Villasis.
Servas mentioned that the RACE held on December 6 in Urdaneta City was the final RACE for this year, and it will resume in 2025.
Support for struggling employers
For employers struggling financially to remit contributions to their employees, SSS offers support through the Contribution Penalty Condonation, Delinquency Management, and Restructuring Program (CPCoDe MRP).
This program allows employers to pay unremitted contributions with a six percent annual interest rate while waiving accrued penalties, making it easier to comply.
For more details, employers may refer to SSS Circular No. 2022-21 for CPCoDe MRP.
As the SSS RACE in the Urdaneta branch resumes in 2025, the SSS urges employers to remain compliant and reminds employees to regularly monitor their contributions through their My.SSS accounts.
Similarly, the SSS branches in Alaminos, Dagupan, and San Carlos regularly conduct SSS RACE within their jurisdiction to promote social security and empower the community.
Together, these efforts aim to build a fair and secure future for everyone. (AMB/JCDR/PIA Pangasinan)
