FORTY-EIGHT tobacco growers in Bulbulala, Balaoan, La Union can now avail of social security protection and benefits with their membership to the Social Security System. The voluntary membership of the tobacco growers was the initiative of
Estrelita E. Nabua, Tobacco Production and Regulation Officer I of NTA La Union.
Abraham N. Casugay, Social Security Officer III, and staff from SSS Balaoan conducted briefing and orientation on the value of SSS membership on March 31organized by NTA La Union in coordination with farmer leader Alma M. Silapan.
Most of the farmers paid their first contributions after the seminar.
“Our farmers during this trading season are receiving payments of their harvest, and they are glad they have the money to pay for their contributions,” Nabua said.
According to NTA LA Union Manager Dr. Giovanni B. Palabay, the farmers now recognize the value of SSS coverage, particularly the benefits and privileges the pension fund offers, especially during these challenging times.
He added that the farmers, one of the most vulnerable sectors of the society, deserve social security protection in times of contingencies such as sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, funeral, and death.
“I hope that this initiative of our extension worker and in cooperation with SSS and our farmers in Balaoan will convince farmers in other areas to join SSS,” Manager Palabay said.