General Luna barangay officials now secured with SSS, Pag-IBIG membership

By Rowena Cruz SSS Vice President for South Luzon, Engr. Edwin Igharas and General Luna Mayor Matt Erwin Florido, along with other local go...

By Rowena Cruz

SSS Vice President for South Luzon, Engr. Edwin Igharas and General Luna Mayor Matt Erwin Florido, along with other local government officials, signed the recent MOA with the Social Security System (SSS) and Pag-IBIG Fund for 27 barangays in General Luna, Quezon. (Photo from Mayor Matt Florido Withaheart/FB)

GENERAL LUNA, Quezon - Barangay officials in General Luna can finally secure their future after the recent signing of a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Social Security System (SSS) and Pag-IBIG Fund. This historic agreement, signed by representatives of 27 barangays in the area, opens the door for voluntary membership in both SSS and Pag-IBIG for Barangay Chiefs, Kagawads, Barangay Secretaries, Barangay Treasurers, Barangay Bookkeepers, and SK Chairpersons.

The program is a direct result of a proposal championed by the Asosasyon ng mga Barangay Kagawad (ABAKA) during their General Assembly and Election of Officers. ABAKA members overwhelmingly supported the proposal, and now Barangay officials will have access to a safety net through SSS programs like retirement, disability, and death benefits. Additionally, Pag-IBIG membership allows them to save for a home through various housing programs.



Previously, Barangay officials weren't covered by SSS and Pag-IBIG by law. This meant they lacked social security benefits and faced limitations in homeownership opportunities. The new MOA bridges this gap, ensuring Barangay officials have access to these crucial financial programs.

"This is a game-changer for our dedicated barangay officials," said General Luna Mayor Matt Erwin Florido. "They tirelessly serve our communities, and now they can have peace of mind knowing they have social security and a path to homeownership."

The MOA signing ceremony was graced by SSS Vice President for South Luzon Engr. Edwin Igharas, SSS Lucena Branch Head Frederick D. Isip, and their counterparts from Pag-IBIG Fund. Local dignitaries like Vice Mayor Laica Batariano, Councilor Manny Abarquez, Barangay Chiefs led by ABC President Alex Rios, ABAKA Barangay Coordinators, and Barangay Treasurers were also present.

Expressing his gratitude, Mayor Florido added, "We extend our sincere appreciation to ABAKA President Kagawad Marco Dique for his role in making this possible. Likewise, our immense thanks go to SSS and Pag-IBIG Fund for their partnership. This collaboration will significantly benefit our barangay officials and their families."

General Luna local government remains committed to working hand-in-hand with SSS and Pag-IBIG to ensure a smooth enrollment process for Barangay officials. This might involve information sessions to educate them on the benefits and membership procedures. Their goal is to maximize participation and ensure all eligible officials can reap the rewards of this program.