DoubleDragon to subsidize SSS contributions for 2,000 informal sector workers in the Visayas

Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro (2nd from left) and DoubleDragon Chairman Edgar “Injap” Sia II (3rd from left) formally ink an agreement for the Contribution Subsidy Provider Program on 13 March 2025 at the SSS Main Office in Quezon City. Also in photo are (from left) SSS Executive Vice President for Investments Sector Ernesto D. Francisco, Jr. and DoubleDragon Legal Department Head Joselito L. Barrera, Jr.

DAVAO CITY — DoubleDragon Corporation has committed to fully subsidizing the Social Security System (SSS) contributions of 2,000 informal sector workers in Iloilo City and Roxas City for a year, amounting to a total of ₱18.2 million.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro and DoubleDragon Chairman Edgar “Injap” Sia II formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) registering DoubleDragon as an SSS Contribution Subsidy Provider.

De Claro expressed gratitude to Sia for supporting the SSS Contribution Subsidy Provider Program (CSPP), which encourages government agencies and private businesses to help Filipino workers access social security benefits.

“This subsidy will not only support 2,000 workers but will also benefit their families by providing them with social security coverage,” De Claro said. “By offering this support, DoubleDragon is empowering informal sector workers with a safety net in times of need.”

The CSPP enables private and government entities to subsidize SSS contributions for self-employed workers, land-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and voluntary members. The minimum subsidy period under the program is six months.

For his part, Sia described the partnership as a way of giving back to SSS and Filipino workers. He recalled how, in 1997, he secured a corporate loan from SSS, which helped him build a 59-room hotel in Iloilo City—one of his first significant business ventures.

Sia thanked De Claro for allowing entrepreneurs like him to pay it forward and help thousands of our fellow Filipinos who need assistance,

DoubleDragon’s contribution aims to reduce financial barriers for informal sector workers, helping them access SSS benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, and funeral assistance.

Through this initiative, DoubleDragon joins a growing list of businesses stepping up to support Filipino workers and ensure their financial security and well-being.

After 28 years, Sia remains grateful for the credit facility and looks forward to a continuing, meaningful partnership with the SSS in the years ahead.