Steady digital access for SSS members in Middle East

The Social Security System (SSS) has assured its members in the Middle East that access to benefits and services remains uninterrupted through its digital platforms despite ongoing regional tensions.

SSS President Robert Joseph de Claro underscored the reliability of the My.SSS Portal, which enables overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and apply for loans online, as long as they meet the required qualifications.

Among the key services available is the unemployment benefit for OFWs who lose their jobs involuntarily, subject to certification by the Department of Migrant Workers.

“Even in these challenging times, our digital infrastructure ensures seamless service delivery,” De Claro said. “Members in the Middle East need not worry; they can manage their accounts safely from anywhere with internet access.”

He also highlighted a new feature that allows pensioners abroad to comply with the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) requirement through facial recognition technology on the SSS website.

“A standout innovation is the ACOP Facial Authentication with Liveness Check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere,” De Claro explained.

The feature, he said, minimizes fraud risks and removes the need for physical travel—an important advantage given current security concerns in the region.

“These tools were purpose-built to empower OFWs, allowing transactions ‘whenever, wherever’ even in crisis zones,” he added.

SSS data showed that as of December 2025, the agency covers 1,476,645 OFWs, including 540,018 active contributing members.

“We remain committed to supporting our OFWs through innovation and resilience, no matter the circumstances,” De Claro said.