LEGAZPI CITY (PIA) — The Social Security System (SSS) is offering its Calamity Assistance Package (CAP) to members and pensioners affected by the Mayon Volcano's continuous restiveness. 

This after a State of Calamity was declared over Albay as  Alert Level 3 remains in effect in the said volcano due to the ongoing volcanic unrest. 

Alert Level 3 , according to PHIVOLCS  means an increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.  

SSS Legazpi Branch Communications Officer Jeanette Torallo-Mapa said in an interview on Friday, June 30, that under CAP, members can avail of the Calamity Loan Assistance Package (CLAP) and a three-month advance pension.

Availment period of the program  started on June 22 and will be until September 21, this year. 

‘’Calamity loan is being offered to SSS member borrowers with at least 36 monthly contributions, six (6) of which should be posted within the last 12 months prior to the month of filing of application,’’ Maps said.

Qualifications on CLAP

‘’They must be registered on our website at www.sss.gov.ph for online application,’’ Mapa said.

Member borrowers should have at least six (6) posted monthly contributions under the current membership type prior to the month of loan application.

‘’Those who have already received total disability or retirement pension are not eligible to avail of the said program, including those with outstanding balance from SSS's loan restructuring program or calamity loan package ,’’ Mapa cited.

Mapa cited that only residents of Albay can  avail  of the  CAP program.  

Areas covered are the cities of Legazpi, Tabaco, Ligao and municipalities of Bacacay, Camalig, Daraga (Locsin), Guinobatan, Jovellar, Libon, Malilipot, Malinao, Oas, Manito, Pio Duran (Malacbac), Polangui, Rapu-Rapu, Sto. Domingo, and Tiwi.

Members or pensioners who like to update their home addressshould submit a member data change request form or SS Form E-4 to the nearest SSS branch.

Advance pension

The three-month advance pension covers SS retiree, disability and survivor pensioners residing in Albay.

Pensioners are required to submit applications for assistance due to calamity certified by the Barangay Chairman.

For their convenience, filed applications will be accommodated in any SSS branch. (PIA5/Albay)