Published Paper Details:

This study evaluated the benefits and service challenges experienced by Social Security System (SSS) pensioners in Balanga City, Bataan, Philippines. As social welfare programs, particularly pension schemes, are critical for the economic security of elderly and vulnerable populations, this research highlights how the Philippine SSS provides essential retirement, disability, and death benefits. It places the study within the broader context of global population aging and the resultant pressures on pension systems, noting the unique challenges that developing nations, like the Philippines, face due to limited institutional and financial resources. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study engaged 150 pensioners through surveys and interviews to evaluate their awareness, satisfaction, and accessibility to pension benefits. Findings indicate that while awareness of the SSS's core benefits--particularly retirement and death benefits--was generally adequate, many pensioners lacked a thorough understanding of eligibility conditions and technical details like calculation methods for disability percentages. Participants frequently cited administrative inefficiencies, such as bureaucratic delays, processing errors, and inadequate communication, as significant obstacles that impacted their ability to consistently access benefits. In rural and semi-urban settings, additional barriers arose, including limited digital literacy, restricted access to information, and logistical challenges in visiting SSS offices, which often led to missed benefits or delays. The study underscores the need for SSS to improve service delivery through clearer communication on eligibility and benefit calculation, simplified administrative processes, and outreach efforts to enhance digital literacy and service access in remote areas. These recommendations aim to bolster pensioners' understanding of their entitlements, reduce delays, and foster greater trust in the SSS, ultimately contributing to improved financial security and well-being among elderly Filipinos.