Suspension of higher SSS contributions sought

Private school teachers are calling for the immediate suspension of the hikes for Social Security System (SSS) contributions this year, expressing worries about "further erosion of already insufficient take-home pay."

- NEIL JAYSON SERVALLOS

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Private Schools said the increase in SSS contribution rates from 14 to 15 percent would "crush" teachers and workers in the private sector who are already bearing the brunt of soaring prices and "meager" wages.

"This proposed SSS contribution increase is the height of government insensitivity. How about the teachers and workers who are already struggling to make ends meet on their meager salaries? The Marcos Jr. administration appears more interested in padding its confidential funds than ensuring social services and people's welfare," ACT Private Schools secretary general Jonathan Geronimo said.