The Social Security System (SSS) in Central Visayas reported on Sunday that it collected over P40 million in unpaid contributions, including penalties, from delinquent employers through its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operations.

Eric A. Coronado, acting head for SSS Visayas Central 1 Division, explained that the operation was part of their ongoing efforts to hold employers accountable for their non-compliance with the Social Security Act. Coronado revealed that 54 percent of business owners who received written notices from SSS have started to settle their contribution delinquencies after being warned.

In 2024, SSS issued violation notices to 837 employers in 20 cities and municipalities across Cebu and Bohol. These employers were cited for failing to remit SSS contributions or for not registering their businesses with the agency, which is required by law.

“Of the 454 employers who complied, 157 fully settled their contribution delinquencies, while 156 made partial payments. Additionally, 48 employers opted to avail themselves of the installment payment plan, which allows them to pay over time,” Coronado said.

Furthermore, 93 employers took immediate steps to register their businesses with SSS to avoid further penalties and legal actions. These measures are part of a larger effort to ensure that workers across the region are given proper access to SSS benefits, such as sickness, maternity, disability and retirement, as well as loan privileges.

Coronado highlighted that the contributions collected through the RACE campaign would benefit 8,629 employees, whose previously unposted contributions are now in the system, making them eligible for the much-needed SSS benefits.

He also noted that 330 employer accounts were referred to the Visayas Central Legal Department for legal action due to violations of Republic Act 11199, also known as the Social Security Act of 2018. As of December 2024, the SSS Visayas Central Legal Department had filed 16 complaints with the Prosecution Office, while two cases were elevated to court for further legal proceedings.

Employers who fail to comply with SSS notices not only violate the law but also deprive their workers of their social security rights. Non-compliance is a punishable offense, with penalties that could include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.