Kasambahay Caravan brings SSS benefits to helpers

QUEZON CITY — The Social Security System (SSS) on March 22, 2026, launched a Kasambahay Caravan across 43 sites in Metro Manila and Rizal, urging household employers to register their helpers and secure social security coverage.

SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the initiative provides much-needed protection for domestic workers, offering benefits including sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, funeral, and death coverage.

“Household helpers keep our homes running smoothly but often lack emergency protection,” de Claro said. “This initiative ensures every kasambahay can access SSS benefits.”

Registered kasambahays can also apply for SSS loans, including salary and calamity loans, and gain coverage under the Employees’ Compensation Program for work-related sickness, disability, or death.

At the kickoff event at SM City Marikina, SSS NCR Operations Acting Senior VP Benjamin Dolindo Jr. highlighted the shared responsibility of employers and society to ensure domestic workers are protected.

The caravan offered on-site services, such as SSS registration, issuance of SSS numbers, data updates, My.SSS online registration support, loan and benefit applications, and orientation on benefits and employer responsibilities.

Under Republic Act No. 11199, employers must register household helpers within 30 days of hiring and remit contributions.

For helpers earning ₱5,000 or more monthly, employers deduct the employee’s share and contribute their own; those earning less than ₱5,000 have their contributions fully covered by employers.

Mall Manager Francis Brian Cruz praised the partnership, emphasizing support for community-driven programs. Social Security Commissioner Eva Arcos described SSS registration as a long-term investment in worker welfare.

The SSS plans to expand the Kasambahay Caravan nationwide to close coverage gaps and extend protections comparable to other formal-sector employees.