What is Universal Healthcare Act and How Will It Benefit Us?
- By Venus Zoleta
- October 26, 2018
The President recently signed the Universal Healthcare Act, a measure that would provide health care coverage for all Filipinos. Should we care about it? Of course! Health care costs in the Philippines are getting more expensive. In fact, our country has the highest medical inflation rate in Asia at 13.1% in 2018, based on a Mercer Marsh Benefits survey. This is twice as high as the country’s consumer inflation rate at 6.7% (as of September 2018). Also, the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that Filipino households paid out-of-pocket 54.2% of the country’s total health expenditure from 2014 to 2016. The household out-of-pocket spending is higher than government healthcare financing schemes (34.2%). The Philippines’ dismal state of public health care system makes measures like the Universal Healthcare Act both necessary and urgent. Table of ContentsWhat is Universal Healthcare Act?How Will the Universal Healthcare Act Benefit Filipinos?1. Automatic Health Insurance for All Filipinos2. Expanded PhilHealth Coverage3. Simplified PhilHealth Membership4. Better Health Care Access and Quality in the PhilippinesFinal Thoughts What is Universal Healthcare Act? The Universal Healthcare Act (Senate Bill 1896) is a law to provide all Filipinos with access to affordable, quality, and comprehensive health services. Through this, the government will implement several reforms in the Philippine health care system. How Will the Universal Healthcare Act Benefit Filipinos? 1. Automatic Health Insurance for All Filipinos Under the Universal Healthcare Act, all Filipino citizens will be automatically enrolled in PhilHealth and therefore, will enjoy access to primary health services. This means you can avail of health care benefits even without…
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SSS Retirement Benefits: An Easy Guide to Claim Your Pension
- By Venus Zoleta
- October 19, 2018
The SSS retirement pension is always an emotional topic for retirees. It’s perfectly understandable—you’ve worked 40 years of your life and paid your SSS contributions without fail. It’s only fair to receive a pension that’s commensurate with the money and years of labor you’ve invested. But alas, it isn’t the reality for retirees in the Philippines. Stories of disappointed SSS pensioners[1] are all too common. If you’re a child, nephew/niece, or grandchild of senior citizens, you’ve probably heard endless rants about how little they receive from the SSS. Even the SSS retirement benefit application process may be too cumbersome for them to begin with. Perhaps, if they knew what to expect before receiving their retirement benefits, they wouldn’t be frustrated as much. If you’re a soon-to-be SSS pensioner or a family of one, it’s important to set your expectations right. Here’s what you need to understand about SSS retirement benefits and how to file for them. Table of ContentsWhat to Know Before Filing an SSS Retirement ClaimSSS Pension RequirementsHow to Apply for SSS Retirement BenefitOnline Retirement Benefit ApplicationHow are Retirement Benefits Paid?SSS Retirement Benefit WithdrawalAdvanced SSS Pension ClaimPossible Deductions in Retirement BenefitFinal Thoughts What to Know Before Filing an SSS Retirement Claim The SSS retirement benefit is a cash benefit paid to members of age 60 and above who can no longer work due to old age. SSS gives it either in a monthly pension or in a one-time lump sum cash. Applying for an SSS retirement pension without understanding everything about it can lead to a heartbreak. Here are…
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What Benefits Can Senior Citizens Enjoy in Your City?
- By Venus Zoleta
- October 3, 2018
Did you know that Filipino senior citizens who reach 100 years old receive a one-time PHP 100,000 cash gift? The Centenarians Act of 2016 (Republic Act 10868) mandates this cash incentive on top of senior citizen discounts and benefits under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (Republic Act 9994). Also, indigent senior citizens receive a PHP 500 monthly social pension, an additional financial assistance from the DSWD for the poor and needy elders. Local government units (LGUs) all over the Philippines implement their own ordinances and programs that provide senior citizen benefits beyond the discounts required by national laws. For example, seniors in Makati and Pasig get a free cake on their birthday. To avail of these senior citizen benefits, residents need to present their senior citizen ID issued by the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) or special card issued by their respective LGUs. We’re listing down the senior citizen benefits for Filipinos aged 60 and above in each major city in the Philippines. Table of ContentsSenior Citizen Benefits in MakatiSenior Citizen Benefits in Quezon CityBenefits for Centenarians in QCBenefits for All Other Senior Citizens in QCSenior Citizen Benefits in ManilaSenior Citizen Benefits in PasigSenior Citizen Benefits in TaguigSenior Citizen Benefits in ParañaqueSenior Citizen Benefits in CaloocanSenior Citizen Benefits in Other Philippine CitiesFinal Thoughts Senior Citizen Benefits in Makati Makati is known as the most generous city for elders, with its 80,000 registered senior citizens getting the royal treatment. It’s one of the first cities to give free cakes and implement coding exemption for seniors. Those with an…
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Balik Manggagawa OEC Exemption: Step-by-Step Guide for Returning OFWs
- By Moneymax
- September 28, 2018
This article was published on September 28, 2018 and was updated on December 5, 2019. Returning OFWs shouldn’t waste their limited time with their families getting an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)—which can last for an entire day. If you’re in the exact situation, you should know that there’s a way to save you time. Did you know that you can get a Balik Manggagawa OEC exemption? Yes, you read that right. Returning OFWs aren’t required to secure an OEC, as long as they meet certain conditions. You can avail of an OEC exemption online with just a few of clicks. All you have to do is use the Balik Manggagawa (BM) Online System. Table of ContentsWho Can Get a Balik Manggagawa OEC Exemption?How to Get an OEC Exemption OnlineStep 1: Register for a BM Online AccountStep 2: Log in to the BM Online SystemStep 3: Update Your Profile PageStep 4: Click Acquire OEC or ExemptionStep 5: Wait for the OEC Exemption Confirmation MessageWhat to Do on Your Departure DatePre-Departure ProcedureHow to Avail of Travel Tax and Terminal Fee ExemptionFinal Thoughts Who Can Get a Balik Manggagawa OEC Exemption? Not everyone is entitled to an OEC exemption. You have to be a returning OFW (also called Balik Manggagawa) with a valid work visa or work permit who meet all the following requirements: Returning to the same employer Returning to the same job site Have a record in the POEA database (Meaning, the POEA previously issued an OEC to you) If you want to know how to get OEC exemption online especially for stranded OFWs because of…
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A Quick Look at the New and Improved SSS Member Portal
- By Venus Zoleta
- September 6, 2018
Any SSS member knows how excruciatingly frustrating it is to use the SSS online service portal. Good thing, it recently got its much-needed upgrade. In August 2018, the Social Security System (SSS) launched My.SSS Beta, an updated version of the old portal that’s notoriously slow at best and non-responsive at worst. Through the My.SSS Beta portal, SSS members who have registered for a My.SSS account can access their social security information anytime and anywhere. For starters, here’s a walk-through of the new SSS online facility. Table of ContentsWhat’s New in the Updated SSS Member Portal?Compatibility with Most BrowsersBetter Site Design and LayoutMobile-Friendly InterfaceWhat Can You Do with My.SSS Portal?1. Check and Update Your SSS Membership Information2. Check Your SSS ContributionsMonthly ContributionsSE/VM PaymentsEmployment HistoryGenerate PRN/SOA3. Access SSS Online ServicesGenerate PRN/SOAMaternity NotificationRetirement ApplicationRequest RecordsBranch Appointment4. Generate Your Payment Reference Number5. Get SSS Contact DetailsFinal Thoughts What’s New in the Updated SSS Member Portal? So, what does the redesigned My.SSS portal offer and why should you use it instead of the old portal? Compatibility with Most Browsers What makes the old portal difficult—and often impossible—to use is that it works only with Internet Explorer version 11. But now, you can access the new portal using other web and mobile browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Opera Mini. So whether you use a MacBook or a laptop with the latest Windows version, using the portal is now easy breezy. Better Site Design and Layout The new SSS member portal looks modern and sleek, with a user-friendly interface that makes browsing the site…
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Looking for Work Abroad? 4 Ways to Find Legitimate OFW Recruiters
- By Venus Zoleta
- August 30, 2018
Despite laws protecting the rights of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), many of them still fall prey to illegal recruiters and end up exhausting their savings without landing an overseas job. Trying to find work abroad? Are you sure you’re dealing with a legitimate recruitment agency? Apply only through a recruiter licensed by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Here are four ways to find legitimate OFW agencies and recruiters that can help you secure a job abroad. Table of Contents1. Use the POEA Verification System3 Ways to Check Legitimate OFW Recruiters with POEA2. Check Out Websites with Job Listings of Licensed Recruiters3. Check Reviews about OFW Recruiters OnlineHow to Find Legit Recruiters on RecruitmentAdvisor4. Avoid Scammers on FacebookFinal Thoughts 1. Use the POEA Verification System The POEA is the government agency in charge of licensing agencies that recruit and deploy Filipinos for working abroad. It has a verification system that allows prospective OFWs to check a recruitment agency’s current status—whether it has a valid license or is marked as one of the following: delisted, canceled, forever banned, or ceased operations. The system also provides the websites and contact information of licensed recruiters. 3 Ways to Check Legitimate OFW Recruiters with POEA POEA website: To access the verification system, click the Status of Recruitment Agencies[1] link on the POEA website’s homepage. POEA mobile app: You can download POEA’s mobile app via the App Store or Google Play Store. The app works like the recruiter verification system on the POEA website. POEA hotlines: If you don’t have internet access, you may call…
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National ID System in the Philippines: The Good and the Bad
- By Venus Zoleta
- August 21, 2018
Are you in favor of the national ID law? The latest SWS survey results show that majority of Filipinos (73%) support the national ID system. However, there are fears about the system’s implications, particularly in terms of data security and privacy. How will the new law affect Filipinos? Should you be worried? MoneyMax.ph explores the pros and cons of the new national ID system in the Philippines. Table of ContentsWhat is the National ID System?Why the National ID is Good for UsOne ID for All TransactionsEasier Access to Financial ServicesMore Efficient Government TransactionsEasier to Get a Senior Citizen DiscountProtection from FraudWhy the National ID System is a Cause for ConcernPossible Data BreachesPossible Privacy Rights ViolationsFinal Thoughts What is the National ID System? On August 6, 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the Philippine Identification System Act (Republic Act 11055) that creates a national ID system, which is a centralized database for all personal information of citizens and foreign residents in the Philippines. The Philippine Identification System or PhilSys will provide each registered person a unique and permanent PhilSys number and a physical ID card called the PhilID for use in transactions that require proof of identity. Most countries worldwide issue national identity cards to their own citizens, such as Singapore, Thailand, China, South Korea, France, Italy, and Spain, among many others. Before the signing of the new law, the Philippines was one of only nine countries in the world without a national ID system. Read more: PhilSys National ID Application Steps, Requirements, and Benefits Why the National ID is Good for Us One ID…
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How to Apply for the SSS Loan Restructuring Program
- By Venus Zoleta
- August 10, 2018
Got an SSS loan you haven’t paid for years? Consider applying for the SSS Loan Restructuring Program—this can definitely help you settle your overdue loan. Here’s everything you need to know about SSS loan restructuring in the Philippines. Table of ContentsWhat is the SSS Loan Restructuring Program?Key Features of a Restructured SSS LoanHow the LRP WorksWhy Should You Apply for Loan Restructuring?Who Can Avail of the SSS Loan Restructuring?How to Apply for the SSS Loan Restructuring ProgramSSS Loan Restructuring Application RequirementsSteps to Applying for the SSS LRPFinal Thoughts What is the SSS Loan Restructuring Program? The Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) allows Filipinos with unpaid SSS loans to settle their outstanding balance under a restructured repayment term. Qualified SSS members can avail of the program until October 1, 2018. Loan restructuring makes it easier to pay back what you owe to the SSS. You’ll have to pay only the overdue principal amount plus interest. After completing the repayment for the restructured loan, you’ll no longer pay the penalty fee you’ve accumulated after years of non-payment. Key Features of a Restructured SSS Loan Pay only the loan principal and interest Waived penalty Lower annual interest rate of 3% (versus the 10% annual rate of the SSS Salary Loan) Pay off the SSS loan in full or by monthly installments for up to five years How the LRP Works When you’re approved for loan restructuring, all your overdue loans with the SSS will be consolidated into one restructured loan. You can pay either in full or by monthly installments, depending on your ability…
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Know Your Rights as a Motorist at a Police Checkpoint
- By Venus Zoleta
- August 6, 2018
Ever been stopped at a police checkpoint? Do you know how to respond and protect your human rights in such a situation? Keep reading to know the dos and don’ts during a police checkpoint inspection. Table of ContentsWhy the PNP Conducts CheckpointsThe PNP Checkpoint GuidelinesYour Rights at a Police CheckpointYou Must be Treated with Courtesy and RespectThe Police Shouldn’t Force You to Get Out of Your Car or Open Your TrunkYou aren’t Required to Answer Any QuestionThe Police Shouldn’t Extort Money or Harass YouYou Can Report Violations ImmediatelyFinal Thoughts Why the PNP Conducts Checkpoints Police checkpoints in the Philippines aren’t something to be scared of—they aren’t a bunch of men in uniform ganging up on innocent motorists. Instead, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is expected to give a real sense of security through these checkpoints. Police checkpoints are meant to maintain public safety through spot checks that deter criminals on the streets. The PNP sets up checkpoints during election season and other times that call for an increased police presence, such as when President Rodrigo Duterte placed the Philippines under a state of lawlessness[1] following the Davao City bombing in 2016. The PNP Checkpoint Guidelines Police officers in the Philippines observe strict protocols based on the PNP Operations Manual so that they won’t abuse their powers and cause so much inconvenience to motorists and commuters. Also, the PNP released guidelines[2] on what motorists should do and expect during checkpoint inspections. Your Rights at a Police Checkpoint Police checkpoints are not without abuses and illegal conduct[3]. Assert your rights when you’re flagged…
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SSS Disability Pension in the Philippines Explained
- By Venus Zoleta
- August 3, 2018
It’s tough to suffer from a lasting disability due to an injury or illness. Aside from physical limitations, you can’t come back to work and earn a living. If you or a loved one is caught in such a situation, know that you may get financial support by claiming a disability pension in the Philippines. Qualified government employees are entitled to GSIS disability benefits, while war veterans receive a disability pension from the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office. Private workers may qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security System (SSS). Planning to apply for a disability pension from SSS? Read on to understand this lesser-known yet useful SSS benefit. Table of ContentsWhat is SSS Disability Benefit?Types of Cash Benefits for Disabled SSS MembersOther SSS Disability BenefitsWho Can Get Disability Pension from SSS?Permanently Disabled SSS MembersDependents of SSS Disability PensionersHow Much is the SSS Disability Pension?SSS Disability Pension ComputationSSS Lump Sum Disability Benefit ComputationHow is the Disability Benefit Paid?How to Apply for the SSS Disability PensionSSS Disability Pension RequirementsSSS Disability Benefits Application ProcedureFinal Thoughts What is SSS Disability Benefit? SSS provides a cash benefit to members with a total or partial permanent disability. The benefit is paid either as a monthly disability pension or a one-time lump sum benefit, depending on a member’s number of monthly SSS contribution payments. Types of Cash Benefits for Disabled SSS Members Monthly disability pension – For members who have paid a minimum of 36 monthly SSS contributions before the semester of disability Lump-sum payment – For members who have paid less than 36 monthly…
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11 Helpful Tips to Get Your Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Approved
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 27, 2018
With interest rates ranging from 5.375% to 10% over repayment terms of up to 30 years, the Pag-IBIG housing loan is one of the more affordable and flexible home financing schemes in the Philippines. No wonder that many Filipinos, who dream of buying a home, apply for a housing loan from the Pag-IBIG Fund. In 2017 alone, the government agency released PHP 65 billion in housing loans to over 80,000 borrowers. Table of ContentsUnderstanding Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Approval11 Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Tips on Getting Approved1. Settle Any Overdue Pag-IBIG Loan Payment2. Keep a Stable Source of Income3. Apply for a Realistic Loan Amount4. Consider Getting a Co-Borrower5. Make a Higher Down Payment6. Make Sure Your Income Document Reflects All Your Earnings7. Consider Buying a Lower-Priced Home8. Apply for the Affordable Housing Loan Program If Your Income is Low9. Check Your Credit Report and Improve Your Credit Score10. Attend a Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Programs Orientation11. Make a Checklist of Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Requirements to SubmitFinal Thoughts Understanding Pag-IBIG Housing Loan Approval A Pag-IBIG housing loan application isn’t as easy as it sounds, though. Neither is getting approval for the loan. It will take so much of your time, energy, and even money to comply with all the eligibility and documentary requirements. If you plan to finance your new home through Pag-IBIG, you have to understand its basis for making lending decisions. A Pag-IBIG housing loan approval, as well as the amount to be loaned, will depend on a borrower’s capacity to pay, requested loan amount, actual need, and loan-to-value ratio[1]. To evaluate…
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NDRRMC Rainfall Warning Alerts: What They Mean and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 26, 2018
Is the NDRRMC flooding your phone inbox with rainfall warning alerts? Does the ringtone almost trigger a heart attack? That’s the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council doing its function as the government’s disaster preparedness arm. Since June 10, the NDRRMC has been sending out weather updates to mobile phone users in the Philippines. Netizens have taken to social media to post their hugot reactions, ranging from amused and grateful to annoyed. Here’s the thing: regardless of what you feel about the unwelcome barrage of text messages, there’s no stopping the NDRRMC from doing its job. Better safe than sorry, right? Table of ContentsWhy You’re Receiving NDRRMC Emergency AlertsWhat Do the Rainfall Warnings Mean?Yellow Rainfall WarningOrange Rainfall WarningRed Rainfall WarningWhy You Shouldn’t Ignore Rainfall Warning AdvisoriesFinal Thoughts Why You’re Receiving NDRRMC Emergency Alerts Those SMS alerts you’ve been receiving lately are part of the NDRMMC’s early warning system to ensure public safety and preparedness during disasters, especially in flood-prone areas. Through these text messages, the NDRRMC keeps everyone informed about an upcoming typhoon, heavy rainfall, flooding, or earthquake. When PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) issues a rainfall warning advisory, the NDRRMC translates it into a short, easy-to-understand message in Filipino and then forwards it to telecommunications providers for dissemination to the public. The Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act (Republic Act 10369)[1] requires telcos to send out alerts from the NDRRMC and other relevant government agencies at no cost to mobile phone subscribers. Why do the rainfall warning alerts have to be so loud and panic-inducing, you might wonder….
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Build Build Build: 9 New Roads to Solve Traffic Problems in the Philippines
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 9, 2018
What could be more frustrating than traffic slowing to a crawl due to road constructions? But think of it this way: the short-term pains will eventually lead to long-term gains. That’s the “Build Build Build” program in action. The government is currently building new roads that will solve the traffic in the country’s most congested roads. Table of ContentsWhat is the Build Build Build Program?What New Roads Can We Expect in the Coming Years?1. NLEX Harbor Link Segment 10Benefits of the NLEX Harbor Link Segment 10:2. NLEX-SLEX Connector RoadBenefits of the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road:3. NLEX Harbor Link Segment 8.24. Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3Benefits of the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3:5. BGC-Ortigas Center LinkBenefits of the BGC-Ortigas Center Link:6. Southeast Metro Manila ExpresswayBenefits of the Southeast Metro Manila Expressway:7. Cavite-Laguna ExpresswayBenefits of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway:8. Central Luzon Link ExpresswayBenefits of the Central Luzon Link Expressway:9. SLEX Toll Road 4Benefits of the SLEX Toll Road 4:Final Thoughts What is the Build Build Build Program? Poor infrastructure in the Philippines, which leads to traffic congestion, may cost the country up to PHP 6 billion daily by 2030, based on a JICA report. This is why the government is now spending more on projects such as new roads, bridges, railways, and airports, among others. Build Build Build[1] is the priority infrastructure program of Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. The program is part of Dutertenomics, the government’s economic policies to achieve the “golden age of infrastructure” in the Philippines. It seeks to reduce poverty by attracting foreign investments, making transport of people and goods more efficient, and generating jobs. To…
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Employer’s Guide to Government-Mandated Employee Benefits in the Philippines
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 6, 2018
As an employer, you’re expected to comply with laws that protect the rights of employees against unfair labor practices. Regardless of the nature of your business and the number of people you hire, you have a legal and moral responsibility to provide your workers with government-mandated employee benefits under the Labor Code of the Philippines. Whether you’re a business employer, a household employer, or an HR practitioner, here are the critical things you need to know about mandatory employee benefits in the Philippines. Table of ContentsPag-IBIG, PhilHealth, and SSS Employee BenefitsWho Can Receive Mandatory Employee Benefits?Employer Registration with Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, and SSSHow to Register as a Business Employer with Pag-IBIGHow to Register as a Business Employer with PhilHealthHow to Register as a Business Employer with SSSHow to Register as a Household EmployerNew Employee Registration with Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, and SSSHow to Register New Employees with Pag-IBIGHow to Register New Employees with PhilHealthHow to Register New Employees with SSSHow to Register Newly Hired KasambahaysRemitting Your Employees’ Government ContributionsHow Much Should Employers Contribute?Payment Due Dates to RememberHow to Pay Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, and SSS ContributionsPenalties for Violation of Rules on Mandatory Employee BenefitsCriminal penalties for failure to register, update records, or deduct and report government contributions:Penalties for late remittance:Final Thoughts Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, and SSS Employee Benefits Under the Philippine Labor Code[1], employees are entitled to monetary benefits such as the minimum wage, 13th-month pay, and overtime pay, among many others. In addition, the Labor Code also requires employers to become members of the Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth, and SSS, as well as remit monthly contributions…
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Vehicle Coding Exemptions in the Philippines That Motorists Should Know
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 5, 2018
The Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), more popularly known as the number coding scheme, is the government’s traffic-decongestion system meant to make our lives easier by reducing the number of vehicles on the road. On weekdays, the vehicle coding scheme bans both private and public utility vehicles (PUVs) whose license plates end with certain numbers (1 and 2 on Mondays, 3 and 4 on Tuesdays, and so on) from plying major roads in Metro Manila from 7 am to 8 pm. But for the skeptic Pinoy motorists, the number coding scheme is more of a hassle than a solution. On days when you can’t drive your car due to coding, you have no choice but to use public transportation. Others buy a second vehicle, which makes the UVVRP less effective in solving the traffic problem. Read more: Number Coding Guide for Filipino Motorists Frustrated with the number coding scheme? Know that there are days and conditions when it isn’t implemented. The UVVRP doesn’t take effect on weekends, holidays, and special cases such as transport strikes and elections. Also, the coding scheme doesn’t affect certain vehicles. MMDA traffic enforcers can’t apprehend you if your car is exempted from the coding scheme. You can earn the vehicle coding exemption either automatically or by applying for it and getting an approval from the MMDA. Table of ContentsAutomatic Coding ExemptionsLocation-Specific Coding ExemptionsApplication for Vehicle Coding ExemptionsWho May Apply for a Coding Exemption?How to Apply for a Coding ExemptionHere are the steps to applying for a MMDA coding exemption:PWDs applying for coding exemptions need to…
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Government Social Media Accounts Filipinos Need to Follow
- By Mayee Gonzales
- June 2, 2018
Do you spend most of your time on social media? Are you keen on following accounts that educate and inform? If you answered two yesses then you should not skip following these government social media accounts. Other than being up-to-date, these accounts (which are managed by appointed officials) share relevant information that can help modern Filipinos like you. We covered agencies that focus on road safety, healthcare, and even the arts so better check out our list below! Table of ContentsDepartment of TourismMMDAOfficial GazetteNational Museum of the PhilippinesDOST PAGASASSSPag-IBIGPhilHealthYour city’s social media account/sBe aware of current events and national issues. Follow these government social media accounts today! Department of Tourism Facebook | Twitter | YouTube[1] Do you plan to explore more of the Philippines? Start by following the Department of Tourism’s social media accounts. Other than sharing photos and videos of the country’s top (and undiscovered) destinations, the DOT also post updates on tourism partnerships and new appointments. Follow their Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube accounts to quench your thirst for wanderlust and to stay updated on local tourism. MMDA Facebook | Twitter[2] Following the MMDA online will not solve the country’s traffic problem but it can make everyday city navigation much easier. The Official MMDA Twitter is a must-follow for motorists and commuters as the agency regularly posts traffic updates, including coding schemes and vehicular accidents. The MMDA is also keen on answering tweets so expect a reply (or a joke if you’re lucky) from the account. Official Gazette Facebook | Twitter[3] Up for some history and national news? Follow…
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When is the Best Time to Claim Your SSS Pension?
- By Venus Zoleta
- April 25, 2018
The road leading to your retirement will be smooth if you plan ahead. Starting your retirement planning already? You’re on the right track. One of the things you need to plan for is the SSS pension. It’s never too early to think about the optimal time to file for retirement and claim your pension. Why bother planning the best time to claim SSS pension? With proper timing, you can get the most of your Social Security System (SSS) retirement benefit. But first, you need to know when you’re qualified to file for retirement with SSS and how the monthly pensions are computed. Table of ContentsWho are Qualified to Avail of SSS Pension?Monthly PensionLump Sum AmountHow Much SSS Pension Will You Get When You Retire?When Should You Claim Your SSS Pension?Here are some tips to maximize your retirement benefit:Final Thoughts Who are Qualified to Avail of SSS Pension? Are you a 30-something who wants to retire by 40? You can retire at any age you want. But to claim your SSS pension, you’ll have to wait for 21 to 30 years, depending on your current age. Monthly Pension SSS provides monthly pension only to members who paid at least 120 monthly SSS contributions before the semester of retirement and meet one of the following criteria: Optional retirement: At least 60 years old and unemployed At least 55 years old, unemployed, and was an underground mineworker for at least five years before the semester of retirement Technical retirement: At least 65 years old, whether employed or not At least 60 years old,…
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12 Tips for a Quick and Stress-Free Driver’s License Renewal
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 15, 2018
Driver’s license renewal is no fun in the Philippines. But it’s a lot more bearable than applying for a new driver’s license, as you won’t have to take driving exams at the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Is your driver’s license up for renewal? Make the process quicker and less stressful. Just keep these driver’s license renewal tips in mind. Table of Contents1. Settle Any Past Traffic Violations2. Renew Your License Sooner Than Later3. Call LTO Before Renewing Your License4. Have Your Medical Exam in Advance5. Fill Out the Application Form Beforehand6. Bring Your Old License7. Bring Enough Cash for the Driver’s License Renewal Fee8. Bring Snacks and Water9. Have Your Driver’s License Renewal at an LTO Mall Outlet10. Come Early11. Know the Right Procedure12. Just Say No to Fixers!Final Thoughts 1. Settle Any Past Traffic Violations Before you go to an LTO branch to renew your license, make sure you’re cleared of any traffic violations and you’ve paid all fines. Otherwise, you can’t proceed to the next step of your driver’s license renewal. Settling the penalty fees on the day of your renewal can delay the process. Read more: Here’s How You Can Claim a Confiscated Driver’s License 2. Renew Your License Sooner Than Later Don’t wait until the expiration date of your license—renew it at least one month in advance so that you won’t have to pay a penalty fee. You can renew your driver’s license as early as 60 days before on its day of expiration. Late driver’s license renewal can cost you as much as PHP 225. If…
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How to Get a Driver’s License Faster Without Dealing with Fixers
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 12, 2018
Want to know how to take a driver’s license faster in the Philippines? First things first: never do business with a fixer at the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Yes, it can be tempting to pay someone to complete your license application quickly, but it can cost you twice to four times the price of doing it legally. And if your license is found to be fake, you’ll be charged a fine and banned from getting a real license for two years. There’s no shortcut in legally applying for a driver’s license in the Philippines. Just like other government transactions, expect long queues, slow service, and lots of frustrating situations. You’ll have to devote a whole day for your driver’s license application, even if it means taking a leave of absence from work. With enough preparation and a few tricks, though, the process of getting your license may only take 3 to 4 hours, or even earlier, barring any IT or system error at the LTO. Here are nine tips you can do prior to your application to speed it up and save time. Table of Contents1. Secure a Medical Certificate in Advance2. Complete Your Documents3. Practice Driving Before Applying for a License4. Bring Enough Cash for the Driver’s License FeesNew Student Permit Fees (Total: PHP 317.63)New Professional/Non-Professional Driver’s License Fees (Total: PHP 820.26)Other Fees5. Dress Appropriately6. Bring Snacks and Drinking Water7. Avoid Parking Problems8. Come Early to the LTO Office9. Follow the Steps to Applying for a Driver’s LicenseFinal Thoughts 1. Secure a Medical Certificate in Advance A medical certificate…
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Looking for Jobs Abroad? 6 Legitimate Websites for Your Overseas Job Search
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 10, 2018
So, you’ve decided to start finding an overseas job. You want to support your family as a breadwinner, take a leap of faith in your career, or just experience how it is to live and work abroad. Looking for jobs abroad is the first bold step to achieving your goal as a would-be Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). But where to start? Good thing, the internet has made overseas job search a lot easier and even safer for Filipinos. You can search and apply for OFW jobs on different online job portals. These websites have job listings from recruitment agencies licensed by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), so you won’t have to tediously check if you’re dealing with a legal recruiter. Their services are free of charge, too. For your overseas job search, visit these online job sites for aspiring OFWs. Table of ContentsPOEA WebsiteWorkAbroad.phJobStreet.comOFWguru.comKalibrrSeaman JobsiteFinal Thoughts POEA Website You may be surprised to see the POEA website here, but the government agency does post overseas job opportunities online. It just isn’t obvious when you browse through the site. Find POEA job listings[1]. Don’t expect much, though. Job posts are limited only to a few countries (currently, the available jobs are only from Taiwan.) Some are already outdated or can’t be viewed. Still, it’s worth checking from time to time to find the latest overseas hirings. If you’re lucky, you can find work abroad through the POEA’s Government Placement Branch that recruits OFWs mostly for foreign governments and a few non-government employers. Applying for an overseas job at POEA assures you that…
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