By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A total of 299 employees in Bacolod City have been affected by the non-remittance of contributions to the Social Security System (SSS).

The SSS said there are 16 employers in the city who failed to remit their employees’ contributions, through the state insurer’s Run After Contribution Evaders program from June 26 to 27.

Josefa Pie Pineda, SSS-Bacolod public information officer, said they have issued show cause orders to the delinquent employers, whose businesses include construction firms, bakeries, restaurants, drug stores, coffee shops, and schools.

Over P8.3 million worth of contributions have not been paid, causing distress to employees who are in a difficult situation and are unable to qualify for SSS benefits.

If these employers fail to remit the contributions, they may face criminal charges.

Based on Republic Act 11199, otherwise known as the Social Security Act of 2018, non-remittance of contributions is a criminal offense.

If found guilty, contribution evaders could face a six- to 12-year jail sentence, and fines of up to P20,000 or both./DGB, WDJ