DILIMAN, Quezon City — With the Social Security System (SSS) set to implement its contribution hike this month, the agency has been flagged by state auditors for its failure to collect some ₱89 billion worth of premium contributions from delinquent employers in 2023.

In its annual audit report, the Commission on Audit (CoA) found that SSS has only collected ₱4.581 billion or 4.89 percent of the total ₱93.747 billion established collectibles. This is based on SSS records that showed its total net collectibles as of December 31,2023 stood at ₱89.166 billion covering 420,267 delinquent business and household employers.

According to CoA, the inefficiency of the SSS in collection deprives it much-needed funds for the timely delivery of social security protection, claims and benefits, to its members and their beneficiaries.

Based on raw data, out of the 420,267 errant employers, 349,189 active ones did not avail of the installment plan offered by SSS for their delinquent accounts. This accounted for ₱63.296 billion or 70.98 percent of the outstanding balance.

State auditors also found that only 103 employers with delinquent accounts amounting to ₱95.308 million or 0.11 percent have applied for or availed of the installment plan.