SSS launches AlkanSSSya pilot to expand social security coverage for 4Ps beneficiaries

BAGUIO CITY, July 8 — The Social Security System (SSS) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 1 have launched the pilot implementation of the 4Ps-AlkanSSSya Program in La Union, aiming to help beneficiaries of the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) save gradually for their monthly SSS contributions and gain access to social security benefits.

According to a statement issued by SSS, the pilot was rolled out among members of the Tabtabungao 4Ps United Association in Barangay Tabtabungao, Rosario, La Union.

Under the program, participating 4Ps beneficiaries will be registered as self-employed SSS members and encouraged to build savings for their monthly contributions through a micro-savings approach. SSS said the current minimum monthly contribution is P760.

SSS Agoo Branch Head Roderick Andrada said the initiative seeks to extend social security protection to vulnerable households that often lack formal insurance coverage.

“Many 4Ps beneficiaries lack formal insurance coverage. Through the AlkanSSSya system, we help vulnerable families build a safety net by enabling them to become eligible for social security benefits when contingencies arise,” Andrada said in the statement.

He said the partnership is intended to bring SSS services closer to underserved communities while encouraging long-term financial protection beyond government cash assistance.

According to SSS, qualified members who consistently pay contributions may become eligible for benefits covering sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death and funeral assistance, as well as salary and calamity loan programs, subject to existing SSS laws and regulations.

Andrada said the agency expects the pilot implementation to serve as the foundation for a planned nationwide rollout of the program.

The announcement did not specify a timetable for the nationwide expansion or indicate the number of beneficiaries targeted under the pilot phase.

The 4Ps, administered by the DSWD, is the Philippine government’s flagship conditional cash transfer program for low-income households.