DTI Business Registration Guide for Entrepreneurs in the Philippines
- By Venus Zoleta
- May 24, 2019
What’s in a name? In a business, it means a lot. Your business name is your company’s branding, so it should catch attention and can be easily recalled. Aside from spending time coming up with a name for your new business, you also need to register it with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), if you’re a sole proprietor. Table of ContentsWhy You Need to Register Your Business Name with DTIWho Can Apply for DTI Business Registration?Tips on Choosing Your Business NameDTI Business Registration RequirementsHow to Register Your Business Name with DTIOnline Application for DTI Business RegistrationWalk-in / Over-the-Counter Application for DTI Business RegistrationFinal Thoughts Why You Need to Register Your Business Name with DTI Business name registration is required in the Philippines. According to the Business Name Law (Republic Act 3883), it’s illegal for anyone to use any name for a business other than the owner’s true name without first registering the business name with the DTI. In short, securing your trade name will guarantee you the legal and exclusive right to use it within its validity period (renewable every five years). This means no other business can register or use your business name in the barangay, city or municipality, region, or country, depending on your business location coverage. However, note that business name registration with the DTI is only for sole proprietors and not a license to run a business (You’ll need to secure a business permit and other related documents for that purpose). Lucky for you, we’ve prepared a guide to DTI business registration in the…
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How to Get an OFW e-Card: Guide to OFW ID Card Application
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 8, 2019
With the launch of the new OFW ID card (called the OFW e-CARD) in November 2018, the horror of getting an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) might just soon be over for OFWs. Filipinos working abroad can also expect smoother and faster transactions with different government agencies. Interested in getting an OFW e-CARD? Let this simple guide help you in your application process. Table of ContentsWhat is OFW e-CARD?What are the Benefits of OFW e-Card?Who Can Get an OWWA OFW ID?How to Get OFW ID CardOFW e-Card Online Application StepsHow to Track OFW e-Card Delivery StatusFinal Thoughts What is OFW e-CARD? The OFW e-CARD is a new identification card that serves as a proof of membership to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and an OEC for OFWs. It replaces the previously issued iDOLE OFW ID card, which was controversial for its confusing guidelines[1] and bearing a photo of President Rodrigo Duterte. OFWs can use their e-CARD to avail of OWWA programs and services. Simply present the ID card at the OWWA Regional Welfare Office, Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine embassies or consulates in their respective countries of employment. What are the Benefits of OFW e-Card? Having the new OFW ID card will make life easier for Filipinos working abroad. Here are OFW e-CARD benefits to expect: Easier access to OWWA programs and services such as social benefits, training programs, and scholarships with fewer documentary requirements Serves as an OEC or exit clearance at the airport, proving the owner’s legal…
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P2P Schedule and Routes from Provinces to Metro Manila
- By Venus Zoleta
- February 22, 2019
Traveling daily from the nearby provinces of Metro Manila is so frustrating, to say the least. It takes you two to three hours at best, or four to five hours at worst (which happens more often), to get to any of the main business districts in the metro like Ortigas, Makati, and BGC. Heck, it’s even faster to fly to Davao or even to Hong Kong than crawl the expressways and EDSA every single day to Metro Manila. Can you relate? You can heave a sigh of relief, as you have an alternative. Commuting warriors from Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, Laguna, and Rizal—listen up! There are P2P bus services that will take you from your area to Metro Manila and vice versa. Let this guide to P2P schedule and routes for buses to and from Metro Manila’s nearby provinces help you plan your daily trips. Table of ContentsP2P Bus Routes to and from ProvincesP2P Provincial Bus Schedule and Fare Guide1. Alabang – Bacoor2. Alabang – Dasmariñas3. Antipolo – Makati4. Antipolo – Ortigas5. Bacoor – Makati6. Bocaue/Sta. Maria – North EDSA7. Cainta – Makati8. Clark – NAIA9. Clark – North EDSA10. Dasmariñas – Makati11. Imus – Makati12. Malolos – North EDSA13. NAIA – Sta. Rosa14. Noveleta – Makati15. Ortigas – Clark16. Sta. Rosa – MakatiFinal Thoughts P2P Bus Routes to and from Provinces As of February 2019, 16 P2P bus routes service passengers from the provinces north, east, and south of Metro Manila: Alabang – Bacoor Alabang – Dasmariñas Antipolo – Makati Antipolo – Ortigas Bacoor – Makati Bocaue/Sta. Maria – North…
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Civil Service Exam: Simple Guide for Aspiring Filipino Public Servants
- By Venus Zoleta
- February 15, 2019
Want to start a career in government service? You share the dream with eight in every 10 Filipinos. A recent JobStreet.com survey[1] notes the increasing desire for government jobs in the Philippines, with 77% of Pinoys wanting to work for the public service sector. Interestingly, the most in-demand government agencies for jobseekers are the SSS, BIR, and DPWH. Among the top perks of working for the government are job security and attractive compensation package (with allowances and bonuses). To raise your chance of getting hired (and eventually promoted) in the government, you need to pass the civil service exam first. This examination is the government’s way to screen and select prospective civil servants in the country. Here’s what aspiring government employees should know about taking the civil service exam in the Philippines. Table of ContentsWhat is Civil Service Exam?Types of Civil Service ExamsCivil Service Examination CoverageModes of Civil Service ExamWho Can Take the Civil Service Exam?Who are Exempted From Taking the Exam?What are the Civil Service Exam Requirements?What’s the Civil Service Exam Schedule?How to Apply for Civil Service ExamApplication Procedure for Pen-and-Paper Test (PPT)Application Procedure for Computerized Examination (COMEX)How to Take the Civil Service ExamHow to Check Civil Service Exam ResultsFinal Thoughts What is Civil Service Exam? The civil service exam, sometimes called the career service examination, is a test created and administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to determine those who are fit for a government job. Types of Civil Service Exams There are two types of civil service exams available in the Philippines: one for professionals and another for sub-professionals….
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A Complete Guide to PhilHealth Voluntary Membership Registration (Updated)
- By Venus Zoleta
- January 18, 2019
Life is uncertain—you may be healthy one day and be bedridden the next. You can’t afford not to have a health insurance for medical emergencies, especially if you’re not employed in a government office or a private company that provides HMO (health maintenance organization) coverage. This is where your PhilHealth membership comes in. Apart from life insurance, PhilHealth membership is a guaranteed way to protect yourself against unexpected bills. By enrolling under the individual paying member category (also known as voluntary membership), you’re assured of the same PhilHealth benefits that employees enjoy, even if you’re self-employed, unemployed, or an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). Learn how to become a voluntary member of PhilHealth[1] through this comprehensive guide. Table of ContentsWho can apply as a PhilHealth voluntary member?What are the PhilHealth Voluntary Membership requirements?How to register for Voluntary Membership in a PhilHealth officeHow to register for PhilHealth Voluntary Membership onlineHow OFWs can apply for PhilHealth Voluntary Membership5 Things to Remember When Applying for PhilHealth Voluntary MembershipFinal Thoughts Who can apply as a PhilHealth voluntary member? Any Filipino who doesn’t have a fixed employment term and is not a senior citizen, indigent member, or sponsored member can register as an individual paying member of PhilHealth. Collectively categorized as members in the informal economy, qualified voluntary PhilHealth members include the following: OFWs – documented or undocumented Filipino workers abroad Self-employed professionals – self-earning individuals such as entrepreneurs, lawyers, doctors, and freelancers whose income is generated from their profession or business Informal sector workers – people working in the informal economy[2], including jeepney and tricycle drivers, street and market vendors, and small construction workers Dual citizens –…
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Makati Subway: Everything to Know About Makati’s Biggest Project
- By Venus Zoleta
- November 30, 2018
Do you live or work in Makati? Expect big changes when the Makati Public Rail Transport (PRT)—better known as the Makati Subway—becomes operational in five years. The 10-kilometer Makati PRT will be the first intracity subway system in the Philippines. What’s in store for residents and employees in the country’s premier business district? Let’s explore Makati’s most ambitious infrastructure project to date. Table of ContentsMakati Subway Project at a GlanceHow Will Makati Subway Benefit Us?1. Faster and Easier Commutes2. Increased Work Productivity3. More Jobs and Business Opportunities4. Increased Profits for Real Estate Investors5. Reduced Air PollutionFinal Thoughts Makati Subway Project at a Glance Here are the basic stats on the Makati PRT, based on information from the Makati City government so far: Makati Subway stations: 10 underground stations with at least 30 entrances linked to key destinations around the city Project cost: USD 3.7 billion Construction timeline: December 2018 to 2023 Passenger capacity: Over 700,000 daily (or 27,000 every hour in each direction) Operational trains: 12 air-conditioned trains in the first year of operation, with intervals of 3 to 6 minutes (Future target: 18 trains with intervals of 2 to 4 minutes) Operating hours: 18 hours daily How Will Makati Subway Benefit Us? 1. Faster and Easier Commutes The Makati Subway System will ease the flow of traffic in the city, addressing the transport and parking problems of residents and workers. Citing feasibility studies, the city government estimates that the PRT will help reduce 270,000 vehicles on the road by 2048. This project will benefit some 500,000 residents and five million…
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The Complete Guide to Claiming Your Pag-IBIG Contributions
- By Venus Zoleta
- November 16, 2018
You’ve diligently paid your Pag-IBIG contributions throughout your entire career. And now, you think it’s time to get your investment back. How to claim Pag-IBIG contribution, you wonder. Read on this guide to know the proper way to withdraw your savings. Table of ContentsWhen Can You Withdraw Pag-IBIG Contributions?1. Membership Maturity2. Retirement3. Permanent Total Disability or Insanity4. Separation from Service due to Health Reasons5. Permanent Departure from the Philippines6. DeathList of Pag-IBIG Provident Claim RequirementsBasic Requirements for Pag-IBIG Provident ClaimAdditional Requirements for Different Types of Provident ClaimsHow to Claim Pag-IBIG ContributionSteps to File a Pag-IBIG Provident Benefits ClaimFinal Thoughts When Can You Withdraw Pag-IBIG Contributions? But first, it’s important to confirm first if you can already claim your Pag-IBIG savings. You can claim your Pag-IBIG savings, also called Provident Benefits Claim, when you meet any of these conditions: 1. Membership Maturity You’ve paid your Pag-IBIG contributions for at least 20 years, equivalent to 240 monthly payments. If you’re a Pag-IBIG Overseas Program (POP) member, you can claim your contributions at the end of five, 10, 15, or 20 years, depending on the option you chose during your membership registration. Check this guide to learn the ways to check your Pag-IBIG contribution payments. 2. Retirement When you reach 65 years old, you’ll be under compulsory retirement and thus eligible to claim your Pag-IBIG contributions. You may retire earlier at age 60, from the SSS, GSIS, or government service, or under your private employer’s retirement plan, as long as you’re at least 45 years old. 3. Permanent Total Disability or Insanity Pag-IBIG…
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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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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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