HOUSEHOLD employers can now register their domestic helpers with the Social Security System (SSS) to ensure they are covered by the country’s social security protection program through its newly launched "Kasambahay Caravan."
SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph de Claro said that at least 43 sites across Metro Manila and Rizal have already been made available after its launch last week.
He emphasized that the caravan was a key SSS initiative to extend protection to this overlooked group of workers.
“Household helpers keep our homes running smoothly but often lack emergency protection,” de Claro said.
“This initiative ensures every kasambahay can access SSS benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, funeral, and death,” he added in a statement.
The SSS chief cited the need for house helpers to be enrolled with SSS, saying they would also benefit from several programs, including salary loans and calamity loans.
“They will also get additional protection from the Employees’ Compensation (EC) Program for work‑related sickness, disability, or death,” he said.
During the kickoff event held at SM City Marikina last week, acting SSS-National Capital Region Operations Group Senior Vice President Benjamin Dolindo Jr. said the drive was aimed at strengthening social security coverage for a sector that plays a vital role in family life.
“Social security coverage for the sector that is truly important in our homes is a shared responsibility. May we continue fulfilling our responsibility to ensure that every house helper is registered and protected,” Dolindo said.
The top officials emphasized that Kasambahay Caravan is part of a broader campaign to bring SSS registration and membership services closer to household workers and their employers, many of whom are still not formally enrolled.
Under Republic Act 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, the SSS said employers are required to register their household helpers within 30 days of hiring and remit their contributions.
For kasambahay earning P5,000 or more per month, household employers deduct the employee’s share from the salary, add their own contribution, and pay via accredited channels. For those earning P5,000 or less, employers fully cover the contributions.
SM City Marikina Mall Manager Francis Brian Cruz welcomed the partnership, saying the mall is committed to supporting community‑driven programs that promote social protection.
De Claro said the SSS plans to expand the caravan in other areas to close coverage gaps among household workers and ensure they receive the same basic protections as other formal‑sector employees.