The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), under the leadership of President and General Manager Wick Veloso, conducted a consultative meeting with the Action and Solidarity for the Empowerment of Teachers (ASSERT) and the Philippine Government Employees Association (PGEA) to address various concerns raised by members and pensioners. A separate engagement with the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) is also being scheduled.
During the meeting, ASSERT presented several proposals, including a review of the current minimum pension, enhancements to the burial benefit, and the restoration or adjustment of the Christmas cash gift for selected groups of pensioners.
In response, President Veloso acknowledged the importance of these concerns and emphasized that any proposed benefit enhancements must undergo a comprehensive actuarial evaluation to ensure the financial viability and long-term sustainability of the Social Insurance Fund.
President Veloso also outlined ongoing initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and accessibility for GSIS members and pensioners. These include the GSIS Touch mobile application, which facilitates online loan application and access to services, the streamlined Annual Pensioners’ Information Revalidation (APIR) process, and affordable housing programs featuring lease-with-option-to-purchase arrangements.
The dialogue was positively received by both ASSERT and PGEA. ASSERT President Arlene James Pagaduan expressed optimism that regular and constructive engagement with GSIS would lead to meaningful resolutions to the concerns of teachers and education sector retirees.
Meanwhile, PGEA President Esperanza Ocampo reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to a continued partnership with GSIS in advancing the rights and welfare of government workers.| – BNN Integrated News
