Printer malfunction delays SSS checks

The Social Security System (SSS) has apologized to some 106,950 members and pensioners who will not be getting their checks for salary loans, death, disability, retirement, sickness and maternity claims on time. (PNA Photo)

MANILA — The Social Security System (SSS) has apologized to some 106,950 members and pensioners who will not be getting their checks for salary loans, death, disability, retirement, sickness and maternity claims on time.

SSS media affairs head, Ma. Louisa Sebastian, on Friday attributed the delay to a printer malfunction, which halted the preparation of the much-awaited checks.  She, however, assured that repair of their check printer is underway.

“This is a highly-specialized, high-tech printer with security features, that uses special ink, so repairs will take a little time. But the manufacturer’s repair crew have been on it since last night,” she said.

Sebastian said they expect the checks to be printed and ready for delivery by June 8.

Once ready, the checks will be delivered to their intended beneficiaries posthaste by way of a special arrangement with PhilPost, she said. “Usually, delivery takes around two weeks (after being printed) but we are trying to make it sooner,” she added.

Affected members are being notified of the delay through the mobile numbers they registered with the SSS, Sebastian explained.

This is the first time a printer malfunction caused a delay in the delivery of checks, the SSS official added.