Philippines SSS and DICT partner to expand coverage for freelancers

The Social Security System (SSS) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to extend social security protection to the Philippines' estimated 1.5 million freelancers and virtual assistants.

Led by SSS President and CEO Victor Alfonso A. Limlingan and DICT Secretary Robert Joseph M. de Claro, the partnership aims to increase awareness, registration, and compliance with the Social Security Act of 2018. The initiative focuses on capability-building and competency development within the online freelancing industry.

By encouraging freelancers to register as self-employed members, the program seeks to provide digital workers with access to benefits typically enjoyed by other employees, including coverage for sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, and death.