SSS MySSS Card expands access in rural communities

QUEZON CITY — The Social Security System (SSS) will soon extend its MySSS Card to unbanked and rural communities, after partnering with EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) as its first rural bank card issuer.

The move, announced Wednesday, aims to boost financial inclusion by making SSS digital services and disbursements more accessible to members outside urban centers.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro and EWRB President Shiela Marasigan-Bajado led the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement authorizing the bank to issue the dual-purpose MySSS Card, which functions as both an official SSS ID and debit card.

“The MySSS Card allows SSS to provide digital payment facilities for our registrants, members, pensioners, and beneficiaries,” de Claro said.

He described the partnership as a “significant project” that simplifies enrollment in disbursement accounts while offering members convenient access to their benefits.

Under the agreement, EWRB will roll out the card across its 112 branches and branch-lites nationwide, focusing on provinces in Mindanao and the Visayas.

The card may also be offered through EastWest Bank branches and digital channels.

Bajado noted that cardholders will not be required to maintain a minimum balance and may earn interest on deposits starting at ₱500, enabling members to grow their savings with flexible account features.

SSS uses the National ID database to confirm membership and ensure secure issuance.

Linked accounts allow members to manage daily financial transactions, improving convenience and security.

De Claro highlighted the decade-long collaboration between SSS and EWRB, dating back to 2017 when the bank was recognized as the Best Collecting and Best Paying Partner in the rural category of the SSS Balikat ng Bayan Awards.

“We hope this collaboration will help SSS better serve members wherever they are,” he said.