Sen. Imee Marcos appealed to government agencies to temporarily suspend salary deductions from Filipino workers as the country continues to feel the effects of the ongoing energy crisis.
Marcos called on the Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Pag-IBIG Fund, and PhilHealth to consider halting deductions from workers’ salaries, saying many Filipinos are already struggling with rising expenses.
According to the senator, workers, farmers, fisherfolk and small business owners are heavily affected by the energy crisis, which has pushed up transportation costs and food prices.
She said granting at least a one-month suspension or more in salary deductions would provide temporary relief to individuals facing financial strain due to higher fuel and oil prices.
Marcos added that suspending deductions could help workers cope with the continued increase in the prices of basic commodities.
She also pointed out that similar measures were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic and previous disasters. During those periods, she said, the temporary suspension of payments helped various sectors recover from economic hardship.
The senator emphasized that easing the financial burden on workers, even for a short period, could help households manage daily expenses amid rising costs.
Her appeal comes as concerns continue to grow over the impact of higher fuel prices on transportation, food supply and small businesses across the country.
As of now, the agencies mentioned have yet to issue statements regarding the proposed temporary suspension of salary deductions.
