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The right to social security of the workers in the informal economy/ sector
PhilHealth; 22 have SSS coverage but as mentioned, 7 did not continue with the contribution;
one (1) still continues to receive GSIS retirement benefits while 1 is a 4Ps beneficiary
The average contribution of the participants to the insurance-based scheme in SSS is
PhP 368.75 monthly. For PhilHealth, since this is a universal health scheme, the majority of
those who have access do not pay any contribution. But one (1) of the participants reported that
he contributes PhP 100 monthly.
The participants shared during the FGD that they learned about the social security
programs of the government through TV, radio, social media, word of mouth, and through their
respective organizations. It is worthy to note though that none of the respondents mentioned
that they got the information from the official government websites. Additionally, no one
specified that there are accessibility features such as closed-caption, sign language interpreter,
o screen reader on the published materials available on the mass media platforms utilized to
communicate information relating to the right to social security.
Some government agencies require beneficiaries to physically submit their application
to avail the benefits to the nearest government office or branch. 75 percent of the respondents
said that the nearest branch of the SSS Office where their respective application forms should
be submitted is within one (1) to five (5) kilometers from their habitual residence. However,
25 percent stated that it is within six (6) to 10 kilometers from where they live. Concerning the
location of the nearest branch of PhilHealth Office to the respondents, two-fourths stated that
it is within 1-5 kilometers from their residence, one-third said it is within 6 to 10 kilometers,
while a third mentioned it is within 11-15 kilometers. 77.78 percent declared that they have
access to public transit to reach these offices and back home. But with the imposition of the
March to May 2020 lockdown, operations of the public transportation system were restricted.
Thus, the participants could not travel going to the government offices, unless through a private
vehicle. To ensure that government services are not hampered, relevant government offices
have developed online application systems.
11 percent of the participants disclosed that they were able to access the services of SSS
online. However, the rest of the participants admitted that they could not access online
platforms or applications due to the lack of electronic devices or little or lack of knowledge on
how to navigate the website or application. Additionally, access to a strong internet connection
has been a challenge. During the lockdown, the participants who are jeepney drivers maintained
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