SSS-Bicol Implements In-Person Verification for Pensioners Aged 80 and Above from March

Legazpi City, Bicol – Starting this March, the Social Security System (SSS) in the Bicol region will enforce a new policy requiring pensioners aged 80 and above to appear in person for their annual verification process.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke in an interview on Monday, this change affects 1,689 senior pensioners in the region. The adjustment is part of the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) program, a measure that was previously not mandatory for this age group to continue receiving their benefits.

Mapa explained the rationale behind the ACOP program, stating, “It’s a process where pensioners report annually to SSS to ensure the continuation of their monthly pension as mandated by the Social Security Act of 2018. This is to also make certain that the SSS pension is rightfully received by those entitled to it.”

However, there are exceptions to this new requirement. Pensioners living abroad and those with total disabilities are not required to undergo personal confirmation. For pensioners unable to appear in person due to illness or injury, SSS offers an alternative. “They can request home visits by submitting a letter via mail or email, signed by the pensioner, relative, or guardian, stating the reason for the home visit. Additionally, they need to provide two secondary identification cards and a sketch of their residence,” Mapa added.

For those residing overseas, compliance with the ACOP can be fulfilled through a video conference facility. Mapa also cautioned that failing to complete the ACOP could lead to the suspension of pension payments one month after the pensioner’s or SSS member’s birth month.