14 The right to social security of the workers in the informal economy/ sector Affordability. Costs and charges associated with contributions to social security must be economical for all.38 Where contributions are imposed, the contributions must be stipulated in advance, and the direct and indirect costs, including the charges associated with making contributions, must be affordable for all, and must not compromise the realization of other Covenant rights.39 III. Results of the focus group discussions (FGDs) on the right to social protection of the workers in the informal economy/sector in the National Capital Region (NCR) Government programs and initiatives on the right to social security As part of the process and to assess the strength of the programs on social protection coverage, the concerned national government agencies were consulted regarding their existing efforts for the WIES, particularly on social protection programs. The strategic framework for the updated Philippine Development Plan developed by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Ms. Judith Gondra, Chief Economic Development Specialist of NEDA, discussed the strategies for workers in the informal sector identified under the updated Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 to provide the context on the government’s initiative for the sector. 38 39 OHCHR and the right to social security, supra note 18. General Comment No. 19 The right to Social Security, supra note 19.