SSS assures OFWs in Middle East of uninterrupted digital access

MANILA, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) has assured its members in the Middle East that they can continue to access benefits and services through its digital platforms despite the escalating regional conflicts. In a statement, SSS President Robert Joseph de Claro highlighted the reliability of the My.SSS Portal, which allows overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and loan applications without interruption, provided they meet qualifying conditions. Among the available services is the unemployment benefit for OFWs who have been involuntarily separated from their jobs, subject to certification by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). "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." The state pension fund chief also noted that pensioners residing in the region can now comply with the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) using the recently launched facial authentication feature on the SSS website (www.sss.gov.ph). "A standout innovation is the ACOP Facial Authentication with Liveness Check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere," De Claro explained. He added that the tool was designed to reduce fraud risks and eliminate the need for travel amid the current security situation in the Middle East. "These tools were purpose-built to empower OFWs, allowing transactions 'whenever, wherever' even in crisis zones," he said. Data from the SSS showed that as of December 2025, there are 1,476,645 covered OFWs, with 540,018 listed as active paying members. "We remain committed to supporting our OFWs through innovation and resilience, no matter the circumstances," De Claro added.

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