BY ALEX ALAGON
Manila — HUAWEI, the top smart wearable brand in the Philippines and worldwide[1], recently introduced the HUAWEI WATCH Kids X1, delivering accessible, high-end technology that meets the unique needs of the modern Filipino family.
For young family members, empowerment is all about safe, independent exploration without unnecessary distractions. The HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 simplifies the essential tools children need to explore, play, and grow independently in a simpler digital world.
The HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 will be available in the Philippines starting June 30, 2026, with an early promo price of PHP 13,999 starting June 23.
Accurate Smart Tracking[2] as the Ultimate Child Safety Measure
The HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 prioritizes accurate positioning capabilities powered by HUAWEI’s self-developed network-based location service. It supports GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS positioning. Parents can track their children’s real-time location via the FamCare app[1] through the device’s Dual-band GNSS in outdoor environments and Dual-band Wi-Fi in complex indoor spaces. Whether a child is playing at the local park or navigating a crowded shopping mall, location updates refresh in near real time.
It also features customizable safe and danger zones, providing parents with instant notifications if their child enters or approaches a restricted area. The dedicated School Guard feature delivers automatic alerts when children safely arrive at or leave school and home, giving parents greater peace of mind throughout the day.
Comprehensive Parental Safeguards, AI-Powered AI-Powered Location Tracking, and Location Accuracy for Connected Families
Providing in-depth child protective measures, the HUAWEI FamCare app equips parents with customizable controls and seamless cross-device synchronization. With its clean and user-friendly interface, parents can manage chats, review usage time, monitor battery levels, and receive charging reminders. Additional safeguard features include parental control of nighttime usage and automatic rejection of unknown callers. A dedicated “Class Mode” mutes distractions during school hours by displaying only the time and permitting emergency calls.
The HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 also promotes physical and emotional well-being[2]. It uses a PPG optical heart rate sensor that translates a child’s emotions into visual icons, which parents can monitor in the FamCare app’s “Growth” section. They can also review long-term health trends with daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly heart rate views.
The watch’s tracking becomes increasingly accurate over time, thanks to its Converged Positioning Algorithm 2.0’s AI self-learning capability, which learns and recognizes the places kids frequent. Real-time step tracking encourages kids to stay active by competing on leaderboards and exchanging encouragement with peers.
Further boosting its safety features, the smartwatch supports HD video calls[1] with AI noise cancellation[2], ensuring voices come through clearly even in noisy environments like playgrounds or school buses. Kids can also seamlessly connect with approved contacts across borders due to its global 2G, 3G, and 4G connectivity.
In an emergency, users can press the side button five times to trigger an SOS alert and automatically call family members in sequence.
Unleash Creativity with a Rotatable 360° Watchface and Dual HD Cameras
Beyond safety, the device delivers an interactive and fun experience for kids. The WATCH KIDS X1 is available in vibrant Breezy Blue and Candy Pink colorways that come with a breathable silicone strap.
It features an industry-first 1.82-inch horizontal AMOLED screen designed for children’s wrists. A slimmer 13.4-mm profile and a compact 46-mm span make it comfortable during playtime outdoors. The watch body can be flipped straight, upright, and rotated 360 degrees, allowing children to find the best angles with ease.
Its robust photography capabilities spark kids’ creativity and curiosity. It features a 5-MP front camera with a 110-degree ultra-wide-angle lens for inclusive group selfies[3], paired with a sharp 13-MP rear HD camera. The device also guarantees crystal-clear shots with its multi-frame noise reduction algorithm and a dedicated Night Mode.
With 32GB of massive storage on the standard version, users can save thousands of photos and share them with family using One-Tap Photo Sharing. To further personalize their experience, kids can customize their display with 40 official watch faces, over 100 fun stickers, 14 kid-friendly filters[4], and 6 photo styles.
More Power and Social Features, Encouraging More Fun with Friends
The Shake to Add Friends feature[1] allows children to connect with other HUAWEI WATCH KIDS users nearby. All new friend requests require parental approval in the HUAWEI FamCare app to maintain a safe communication environment.
Its IPX8 and IPX9 (2 ATM) swimming-grade water resistance means kids can wear it anywhere from washing their hands to splashing in the pool or beach adventures. The watch features an 850 mAh battery that supports up to 32 hours of battery life. With fast-charging technology, it powers up to 50%[2] in just 20 minutes, so the fun keeps going all day long.
Upgrade Your Family Tech Today with Exclusive First Sale Promos
Starting June 23, customers can take advantage of exclusive early-bird vouchers via the HUAWEI Online Store, Shopee, Lazada, or TikTok Shop, where shoppers can claim a PHP 2,000 Early Bird voucher. Meanwhile, offline shoppers at any HUAWEI Experience Store nationwide will automatically receive a PHP 2,000 First Sale discount. Every HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 also comes with a free one-year unlimited accidental damage protection plan and a complimentary battery replacement service worth PHP 1,599.
Flexible payment options are also available via credit card installments of up to 12 months at just PHP 1,167 per month, or Home Credit installments of up to 9 months at PHP 1,089 per month, with a 30% down payment. The HUAWEI WATCH Kids X1 is available at HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide, the HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project’s Water Treatment Plant in Davao City
DAVAO CITY – For many families in Davao City’s Barangay Cabantian, water used to cost more because of limited access.
Before, limited water supply made access to safe drinking water difficult. Many families, especially from Upper Cabantian, had to buy water from vendors for drinking and cooking, often at prices more expensive than piped water, adding to their household expenses.
Because water was not available 24/7, residents also had to wake up early in the morning to collect and store water for the day.
Today, with a more reliable water supply, families can now save on costs, spend less time securing water and focus more on their daily needs.
“Many are truly happy, especially those in Upper Cabantian,” said Barangay Captain Nilo C. Cabiles. “The people of Cabantian, especially in the upper part, spend a lot because you have to buy purified water for cooking and drinking. Now some have tested and tasted the water, and it’s okay for them.”
For Cabiles, the change finally achieved something that residents have hoped for over many years. “We have indeed realized our long-awaited goal: the improvement in water quality,” he said.
The improvement is being supported by the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a joint venture between Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD), which delivers up to 300 million liters of treated surface water daily from the Tamugan River to the Davao City Water District (DCWD).
The project helps augment DCWD’s groundwater supply with surface water, strengthening long-term water security for communities across the city.
“Water is the most basic necessity for humans,” Cabiles emphasized. “Without it, how can one function in all aspects of life?”
DCBWSP’s Multiplier Effect on Socio-Economic Development
Located along a major route connecting northern barangays in Davao City, Barangay Cabantian has increasingly become an attractive location for investment and development.
“The central point is Cabantian. Every time people pass through Cabantian from the northern barangays, they pass through here,” he explained. “It may be one reason why Cabantian is becoming attractive to investors.”
He added that the benefits of safe and stable water supply extend far beyond infrastructure.
“In terms of economic improvements, it’s a significant help, a big assistance to everyone, as it creates a domino effect. With investors coming in, it serves as proof that the area is promising, and then the people will have employment opportunities,” Cabiles said.
Cabiles’ observations reflect a broader trend across Davao City, which remains one of Mindanao’s leading economic centers.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Davao City remains the largest contributor to the Davao Region’s economy. Local revenue collections totaled P15.5 billion in 2025, up 13% from P13.41 billion in 2024, reflecting sustained economic activity and business growth.
As Davao City continues to expand, infrastructure such as the DCBWSP plays an increasingly important role in ensuring that growth is supported by reliable and sustainable essential services.
For communities like Barangay Cabantian, the story is not just about economic indicators or infrastructure investments.
It is about families spending less on water. It is about improved quality of life. It is about communities attracting more investments and employment. And it is about giving Dabawenyos confidence in a better future.
TMI Brigada work mode on: (Left)Teachers and students of Mateo B. Abao Central Elementary School (MACES) in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, express their gratitude for the school supplies received from AboitizPower’s Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) during the culmination of the Aral Summer Program on June 2, 2026. (Right) TMI team members repair school facilities, including wiring and sinks, to provide a safer and more conducive learning environment for the students of Maco Central Heights Central Elementary School during the conduct of Brigada Eskwela.
For many students, a notebook, a pen, or a freshly prepared classroom may seem like simple things. But for young learners striving to build their future, these can make a meaningful difference in their confidence, motivation, and ability to learn.
Recognizing the important role that education plays in shaping stronger communities, AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine Inc. (TMI) power barges, recently supported schools in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, and Maco, Davao de Oro.
In Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, TMI volunteers donated school supplies to young learners at Mateo B. Abao Central Elementary School (MACES) as part of the school’s Continuous Improvement (CI) Project, Children At Risk in Reading (CARR).
The initiative supports learners who need additional help developing their reading skills, providing essential learning tools to build confidence and strengthen literacy.
For Aira Rose Cabaron, MACES Aral Coordinator and Continuous Improvement Team Leader, the donation goes beyond just school supplies.
“We are deeply grateful for AboitizPower’s unwavering support. Their partnership in our Children At Risk in Reading (CARR) project is a testament to their commitment to our community, ensuring that our learners have the resources they need to thrive and succeed,” Cabaron said.
“It takes a community to raise a child. The spirit of bayanihan is woven into our culture, and supporting our host community is central to who we are,” said Engr. Jerome Luchavez, TMI Nasipit Senior Manager for Operations and Maintenance.
Meanwhile, in Maco, Davao de Oro, TMI volunteers joined Brigada Eskwela activities at Maco Heights Central Elementary School, helping prepare the campus for the school opening. Employee volunteers repainted facilities, repaired electrical wiring and sinks, and cleaned school grounds to help create a safer, more welcoming, and conducive learning environment for students and teachers. School Principal III Dr. Felvic B. Pernito expressed appreciation for the initiative and its positive impact on the school community.
“TMI’s generosity and commitment have helped create a more inspiring, safe, and learner-friendly environment as we prepare for School Year 2026–2027. The partnership reflects the true spirit of bayanihan, empowering our school community to provide better learning opportunities for every child,” said Dr. Pernito.
“We believe in the power of education as the foundation for growth, which is why we continue to empower our schools, generate a positive impact in our communities, and boost the learning experience for every child,” said Engr: Benedicto Dejan Jr., TMI Maco Senior Manager for Operations and Maintenance.
Beyond supporting schools through volunteerism and learning initiatives, TMI continues to invest in the long-term development of its host communities through scholarship programs that help young people pursue higher education. To date, TMI has helped to produce 13 college scholar graduates, helping open pathways to greater opportunities for local youth.
As TMI continues to provide ancillary services that help stabilize the Mindanao grid through its two 100 MW oil-fired power barges in Maco and Nasipit, it remains equally committed to helping energize communities by supporting the next generation of learners, leaders, and changemakers.
Omar Uddin of Zamboanga City receives a grocery package after being named Maxim’s top father driver-partner nationwide.
As part of its Father’s Day celebration, Maxim Rides & Food Delivery recognized four outstanding father driver-partners from across the Philippines for their dedication to supporting their families while providing excellent service to customers.
Maxim identified the top-performing driver-partners nationwide based on the number of completed orders in May 2026. The recognition was given to driver-partners who not only demonstrated outstanding performance on the platform but also fulfilled their responsibilities as fathers and providers for their families.
The awardees were Omar Uddin of Zamboanga City, Johnny Sanchez of Angeles City, Jerby Cuevas of Tacloban City, and Lee Paca of Cebu City. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to supporting their loved ones earned them a place among Maxim’s most outstanding father driver-partners nationwide.
As a token of appreciation for their hard work and commitment, the awardees received grocery packages and a week of zero commission.
The initiative highlights the important role fathers play in their families and communities. Through their dedication and perseverance, these driver-partners support their loved ones while helping provide reliable transportation and delivery services to Maxim users.
“Fatherhood comes with great responsibility, sacrifice, and dedication. We are proud to recognize these outstanding father driver-partners who work tirelessly every day to support their families while providing excellent service to our customers,” said Andres Morales, Jr., President of Maxim Rides & Food Delivery.
Maxim continues to support its driver-partners through initiatives that recognize their contributions and help improve their earning opportunities. These include incentives and performance-based programs, such as the company’s permanent vehicle branding program, as well as campaign-based activities linked to community engagement efforts that provide additional income opportunities for driver-partners and their families.
THE MILITARY is rapidly gaining momentum in its campaign to secure a total peace declaration across Northern Mindanao following the neutralization of a top-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) commander and an operative in Bukidnon on Sunday, June 21.
4th Infantry Division commander Major General Marion T. Angcao emphasized that the successful double operations signal a decisive turning point, crippling the remaining armed remnants of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
Following the recent declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) across the entire Caraga Region, Angcao stated that the 4ID is heavily focused on replicating that milestone in Northern Mindanao through relentless tactical pressure.
“This development signifies another setback for the NPA,” Angcao said. “We remain resolute in our mission to dismantle the remaining armed groups and ensure that peace and development continue to flourish in our communities. We hope to achieve the same milestone in the region through continued collaboration among our forces, local government units, stakeholders, and communities.”
The shift in momentum follows back-to-back joint-force operations in Bukidnon that neutralized Romeo Manpinsahan, alias “Kakoy,” the high-ranking commanding officer of the headquarters Force NEO under the NCMRC.
The strategic operations unfolded across two separate clash sites:
Cabanglasan: Combined troops from the 1st Special Forces Battalion engaged fleeing rebels in a midnight firefight at Sitio Tagiptip, Brgy. Another, killing an NPA operative identified as Edward Pantandon, alias “Wando,” and recovering an M16 rifle.
Malaybalay City: At 11:35 a.m. the same day, pursuing forces from the 8th Infantry Battalion caught up with the same group at Sitio Nalumosan, Brgy. Silae. The second encounter resulted in the death of Commander “Kakoy” and the capture of two high-powered firearms, magazines, ammunition, and a backpack.
Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Brigade, corroborated the division’s progress, noting that the double victory clearly demonstrates the collapsing operational capability of the NCMRC under sustained military pressure.
The massive push drew extensive joint-force reinforcement, utilizing assets from the 88th and 26th Infantry Battalions, specialized Division Reconnaissance Companies, artillery fire support from the 4th and 7th Field Artillery Battalions, and dedicated regional military intelligence units.
IN THE wake of the Magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao on June 8, Aboitiz Foods, through Pilmico Animal Nutrition Corporation (Pilmico), partnered with Aboitiz Foundation Inc. to mobilize relief operations to support affected families across General Santos City and Glan, Sarangani Province.
Following the powerful earthquake that disrupted essential services and damaged homes and infrastructure across parts of Mindanao, access to clean drinking water quickly emerged as a critical need for affected communities.
In response, Aboitiz Foods team members worked alongside local government units and community partners to deliver 1,850 cases of bottled water and 1,000 relief packs composed of rice and non-perishable food items to families in five barangays, two hospitals, and several evacuation areas across General Santos City, Glan, and Malapatan through a multi-wave relief effort.
“We recognize that our responsibility extends beyond the footprint of our operations to standing alongside our communities during difficult times,” said Joeben Gamatero II, vice president for Agribusiness Marketing and Brand & Reputation Management at Aboitiz Foods. “We hope that our relief operations can help offer stability for the affected families, so they can start rebuilding their lives from the impact of the earthquake.”
Beyond providing immediate assistance, the initiative also reinforced the importance of collective action in responding to disasters.
Volunteerism in Action
The power of collective action. Stepping up in times of crisis. Driven by a shared purpose, Aboitiz Foods employee-volunteers work across functions to pack, transport, and personally deliver vital aid to affected families in Mindanao.
Putting Aboitiz Foods’ core values of responsibility and teamwork into action, the response highlighted the spirit of volunteerism among team members, who worked across functions to mobilize resources and ensure aid reached communities as quickly as possible.
For Disney Paquingan-Sususco, Regional Sales Manager for Feeds Sales – Gamefowl, the experience underscored the power of teamwork in times of crisis.
“Seeing everyone unite behind a common purpose and work together to deliver assistance was inspiring,” she shared. “This experience reminded me that leadership is about stepping up when action is needed, bringing people together, and staying focused on the impact we want to create.”
Similarly, Christian Rey Pepugal, territory business manager for feeds sales–livestock, described the relief operations as both humbling and eye-opening.
“More than distributing relief goods, the operation was about showing people that they were not alone,” he said. “Seeing the gratitude and resilience of affected families made all the long hours and hard work worthwhile.”
Their experiences not only highlighted the importance of timely assistance but also gave them a firsthand view of the resilience and determination of communities working together to recover from the disaster.
Building Resilient Communities Together
For Aboitiz Foods’ team members on the ground, witnessing the reality of families who had lost their homes, possessions, and, in the most heartbreaking cases, their loved ones was humbling and eye-opening, as many remained hopeful and determined to rebuild.
These encounters serve as a powerful reminder that, beyond restoring physical structures, disaster response efforts help affected families regain a sense of stability, dignity, and reassurance that they are not facing the rebuilding journey alone.
Guided by its purpose of sustainably feeding Asia’s growth and core values of responsibility and teamwork, Aboitiz Foods continues to implement initiatives that foster collective action, preparedness, and long-term development—working alongside local government partners and communities to help nourish a stronger, more resilient future for all.
UNION BANK of the Philippines (UnionBank) topped Visa credit payment volume in the Philippines in 2025, reflecting how more Filipinos are using credit cards for everyday spending and greater flexibility in managing their finances.
“As more Filipinos become mindful of how they manage their budgets, this recognition highlights the growing importance of secure and flexible payment options in daily life,” said Mukul Sukhani, Head of Cards and Loans at UnionBank. “Our focus has always been to support customers with practical benefits—whether for essentials, online purchases, or occasional lifestyle experiences—so they can make the most of how they spend.”
The shift toward more intentional and digital-first spending habits was echoed by Visa. “From everyday essentials to important life moments, Visa enables fast, secure, and seamless digital payments,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines. “UnionBank Visa Cardholders benefit from a global network that helps them transact with confidence—whether in-store, online, or abroad.”
Supporting everyday needs and economic activity
As households prioritize everyday expenses, more Filipinos are using their UnionBank Credit Cards for groceries, electronics, and online purchases. Features such as installments, cashback, deals on platforms like Shopee and Lazada are helping customers better manage their budgets.
With the continued shift to digital payments, customers also benefit from more convenient transactions and greater control over how they manage their finances.
Expanding access to financial tools
Earlier this year, UnionBank reached 2 million credit cards in circulation, reflecting continued demand for accessible and easy-to-use financial tools. This growth was driven by digital onboarding and simplified application processes, making it easier for more Filipinos access credit responsibly.
Delivering practical value for cardholders
UnionBank Visa Credit Cards are designed to help cardholders get more value from their everyday spending—especially on essentials and planned purchases.
Cardholders can access:
- Dining and Lifestyle savings, with discounts of up to 50% at partner merchants at over 1,000 partner restaurants and outlets nationwide, including exclusive access to premium and MICHELIN recognized dining experiences, complimentary dining perks, and priority reservations at select establishments locally and abroad.
- E-commerce deals and installment options, helping manage larger or essential purchases more comfortably. Cardholders can also take advantage of payday and double-date offers on leading e-commerce and shopping platforms, featuring cashback deals, installment plans, and special savings on electronics and everyday essentials.
- Travel and accommodation offer, including discounted airfare and added perks for those planning trips. UnionBank Visa offers airline seat sales and global hotel deals, including complimentary night stays and up to 30% off at participating properties worldwide – making every trip more rewarding when paid with a UnionBank Visa Credit Card.
Through these curated offers, UnionBank continues to deliver meaningful value across essential touchpoints, ensuring that cardholders get more out of every swipe, tap, and transaction. These benefits are designed to support both everyday needs and occasional lifestyle experiences—giving customers flexibility while helping them manage costs more effectively.
NINE years after forging a strategic alliance, P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin (P.A. Hankyu) continues to strengthen its commitment to building quality homes, sustainable communities, and meaningful social impact for Filipino families.
Established through the partnership between P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) and Japan’s Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp., P.A. Hankyu celebrated its ninth anniversary under the theme, “Giving Value Forward @ 9: Sustaining Partnerships, Communities, and Impact,” on June 11, 2026, in Biñan, Laguna. The milestone not only commemorated the joint venture’s achievements but also reaffirmed its shared vision for responsible growth and community development.
Since its inception, P.A. Hankyu has steadily expanded its footprint across Luzon. The partnership began with the signing of the joint venture agreement for Idesia Dasmariñas Phase 1 in Cavite and has since grown to include residential developments in Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, and Bulacan, providing quality housing options to thousands of Filipino families.
For P.A. Properties director Lawrenz Joseph Z. Alvarez, the partnership’s longevity has been anchored on a foundation of trust and shared values.
“As we look ahead, sustainability will continue to be an important part of how we operate, how we build communities, and how we define success. We want to create developments that endure, relationships that last, and programs that generate meaningful impact beyond our organization,” Lawrenz Alvarez
Representing Hankyu Hanshin, Vice President Asa Toda expressed her gratitude for the collaboration that has flourished over nearly a decade.
“Our partnership is built on trust, respect, and shared values. This strong foundation has helped us overcome challenges on the road together.” She reaffirmed Hankyu Hanshin’s commitment to future developments that will continue to serve Filipino families.
“We are excited about the new projects and communities we will build together. We believe the best years of our partnership are still ahead of us.” –Asa Toda
Looking ahead, P.A. Hankyu is poised for further growth through upcoming developments and strategic expansions across Luzon and Metro Manila. These include an upcoming project in Inosluban, Lipa, Batangas, and Alaminos, Laguna that will support the company’s next phase of growth.
P.A. Properties president and CEO Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz highlighted that beyond physical developments, the partnership is equally committed to creating lasting value for communities.
As part of its 9th anniversary celebration, P.A. Hankyu launched the “Giving Value Forward @ 9 Campaign,” mobilizing employees and partners to donate items to benefit students and the school community at Magsaysay Elementary School in San Pedro, Laguna. The donations were formally turned over on June 11, 2026, reflecting the company’s commitment to compassion, volunteerism, and shared responsibility.
“By choosing to reuse, to share, and to give, we extend value beyond ourselves and create a positive impact on others. Through this initiative, we demonstrate that progress is most meaningful when it is shared,” Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz
As P.A. Hankyu celebrates nine years of partnership, it remains guided by its mission of delivering more than homes. Through trust, collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to nation-building, the company continues to create lasting impact for Filipino families while helping shape communities where future generations can thrive.
P.A. Hankyu’s nine-year journey stands as a testament to the strength of partnerships rooted in trust, shared purpose, and the enduring commitment to giving value forward.
QUEZON CITY, 23 June 2026 – The Social Security System (SSS) announced that its Pension Booster Program, also known as the Voluntary Provident Fund, continues to deliver strong financial performance in 2026, posting an average return on investment (ROI) of 6.2 percent from January to May this year despite prevailing economic challenges.
The program remains a reliable retirement savings option for Filipino workers. While slightly lower than the previous year’s performance due to changes in interest rates implemented by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the return remains competitive and continues to exceed market benchmark rates.
Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission ex-officio chair Frederick D. Go said the program reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening retirement security.
“The continued strong performance of the SSS Pension Booster underscores our commitment to protecting the financial future of Filipino workers. Through prudent management of members’ funds, we are helping build a more secure and dignified retirement for every Filipino,” Go said.
SSS noted that the 2026 performance follows the 6.83 percent return in 2025, surpassing the prevailing 91-day treasury bill rate which has a year-to-date average of approximately 4.77 percent.
In 2025, contributions rose to 21.8 percent to P699 million from P574 million in 2024, reflecting growing member confidence in the program.
To maximize members’ earnings, SSS waived the one percent management fee on the total balance of Pension Booster accounts from 2025 to 2028, allowing members to fully enjoy investment gains.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the program reflects prudent investment management and long-term value creation. He added that members may now conveniently monitor the monthly compounding growth of their Pension Booster savings through their My.SSS accounts, allowing them to track the progress of their retirement funds and make more informed decisions in planning for their future.
“The strong performance of the Pension Booster demonstrates disciplined and professionally managed savings. We remain committed to providing members greater financial security during retirement,” de Claro said.
The Pension Booster is open to all SSS members to build additional savings for their retirement. It allows individuals to save starting at P500, with no maximum contribution limit.
Contributions are pooled and invested in government securities, corporate bonds, fixed-income instruments, equities, and money market instruments, with tax-free earnings credited proportionately to members’ accounts.
De Claro urged members to start early and stay invested longer to maximize returns, citing the benefits of compound growth.
“Planning and saving for retirement should begin early. The longer the members stay invested, the greater their potential returns,” he said.
Interested SSS members may enroll in the Pension Booster Program online through their My.SSS account.
