SSS clarifies reports on red tape complaints; All cases addressed

by Info @Brand Zone | November 27, 2025

In light of recent news reports citing the list of most complained-about government agencies based on January to August 2025 data presented by the Anti Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to the Senate during budget deliberations, the Social Security System (SSS) wishes to assure the public that its management takes these matters seriously and is committed to continuous improvement in service delivery.

“SSS is currently coordinating with the Anti-Red Tape Authority to validate the reported data involving 244 complaints.  From our own monitoring of ARTA referrals, all complaints received during the period covered were addressed and resolved within ARTA standards as our resolution rate is at 99.3%.  For the period covered by ARTA presentation to the Senate, SSS tracked a total of about 474,000 emails working diligently until they are all resolved within ARTA standards,” SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes De Claro said. 

“Most complaints are about our service delivery, followed by matters concerning our loan programs, and then about contributions matters.  Service delivery complaints were mainly about queuing at the branches and repeat visits to SSS branch for a benefit claim.  Loan programs complaints were about salary loan and calamity loan programs – both were enhanced this year featuring lower interest rates – mainly on difficulty as regards calamity loan applications and challenges on loan eligibility requirements and procedures.  Contributions complaints were mainly about non-remittance by employers and long wait time for manual verification,” De Claro explained.

As far back as June 2021, the SSS created a Committee on Anti Red Tape (CART) with effective receiving of complaints and feedback as a major function and responsibility.  Such complaints and feedback are received by SSS via hotline, corporate email, postal mail, referrals from various government entities including ARTA, and through SSS Branches.  We also monitor news reports and social media for SSS-related matters and issue Press Releases or Statements to keep our stakeholders informed.

“We value transparency and accountability in all our operations. While we recognize the importance of these reports, we want to assure our members that every concern raised through our channels is being acted upon until resolved. Our partnership with ARTA reflects our commitment to improving processes and delivering efficient services,” De Claro added.

The SSS remains steadfast in its mission to provide fast, efficient, and transparent services to its members. We continue to implement reforms and digital innovations to minimize bureaucratic delays and enhance customer experience.

For inquiries or feedback, members may contact the SSS through hotline 1455, email usssaptayo@sss.gov.ph, and our branches.  See us also through our website (www.sss.gov.ph) or our social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Viber, X, and Youtube) under the MYSSSPH handle for latest announcements and instructional material on SSS programs.

Celebrate a cheesy Christmas with Mang Inasal’s returning 4 Cheese Halo-Halo

by Info @Brand Zone | November 26, 2025

Mang Inasal is bringing the holiday spirit to dessert lovers nationwide with the return of its highly anticipated 4 Cheese Halo-Halo, available from November 1 to December 31, 2025. First launched as a limited-time summer treat, the dessert became a social media sensation, prompting fans to eagerly request its comeback.

The festive offering is a playful yet indulgent twist on the Filipino classic, featuring Selecta Quezo Real Ice Cream, cheesecake bites, grated cheese, and leche flan, topped with milk powder and a specially crafted milk mix. The combination delivers a creamy, sweet, and slightly salty treat that balances luxurious texture with festive fun and is ideal for sharing during the holiday season.

“We created the 4 Cheese Halo-Halo to be fun, memorable, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. With fans asking for its return, this Christmas edition is our way of giving something special, spreading Unli-Saya and festive cheer across the country," said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro.

The dessert’s return has already sparked excitement online, with celebrities and content creators such as Fyang Smith, Bea Borres, and Nathan Portez sharing their cheesiest moments enjoying the treat. These viral posts have racked up millions of views and thousands of shares, reinforcing the 4 Cheese Halo-Halo’s status as a trending holiday sensation.

Customers nationwide can enjoy Mang Inasal’s 4 Cheese Halo-Halo via dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, or delivery through the Mang Inasal App, Grab, or foodpanda, making it easy to celebrate a truly cheesy and festive Christmas wherever they are.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://order.manginasal.ph/ for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

DOST Camiguin supports the 3rd Provincial MSME Summit!

by Info @Brand Zone | November 25, 2025

The Philippines assumes the ASEAN Chairship in 2026 at a defining moment for the region. Home to nearly 700 million people and the world's 5th largest economy, ASEAN stands at the crossroads of unprecedented opportunity and evolving global challenges.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Camiguin proudly supports the Provincial Government of Camiguin in the conduct of the 3rd Provincial Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit on November 14, 2025, at the Camiguin Convention Center, Mambajao, Camiguin.

Organized in partnership with PJ Lhuillier, Inc., DTI, DOLE, DICT, and Camiguin Polytechnic State College, the summit will gather around 200 participants from the business sector, government agencies, local government units, mentors, and enablers.

This year, DOST will use this venue to promote rapid upgrading of MSMEs on the island through the integration of AI technologies and digital transformation, which can bring greater convenience to both business owners and customers. DOST has invited Mr. Rey Mark U. Anggoy, a technopreneur from Quezon, Bukidnon, to introduce accessible AI solutions that can enhance services and improve MSME operations.

By supporting activities like this, DOST reaffirms its commitment to strengthening local enterprises, fostering innovation, and advancing sustainable economic growth in the province of Camiguin.(DOST 10)

Suporta ng DOST Camiguin sa 3rd Provincial MSME Summit!

Ipinagmamalaking sinusuportahan ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Camiguin ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Camiguin sa pagsasagawa ng 3rd Provincial Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit noong Nobyembre 14, 2025, sa Camiguin Convention Center, Mambajao, Camiguin.

Inorganisa ito katuwang ang PJ Lhuillier, Inc., DTI, DOLE, DICT, at Camiguin Polytechnic State College. Tinatayang aabot sa 200 kalahok mula sa business sector, mga ahensya ng gobyerno, lokal na pamahalaan, mentors, at enablers ang dadalo sa naturang pagtitipon.

Ngayong taon, gagamitin ng DOST ang okasyong ito upang itaguyod ang mabilis na pag-upgrade ng mga MSME sa isla sa pamamagitan ng integrasyon ng AI technologies at digital transformation, na magdadala ng mas malaking kaginhawaan sa mga negosyante at kanilang mga customer. Inimbitahan ng DOST si Ginoong Rey Mark U. Anggoy, isang technopreneur mula sa Quezon, Bukidnon, upang ipakilala ang mga accessible na AI solutions na makatutulong sa pagpapahusay ng serbisyo at operasyon ng mga MSME.

Sa pamamagitan ng pagsuporta sa mga ganitong gawain, muling pinagtitibay ng DOST ang pangako nitong palakasin ang mga lokal na negosyo, paunlarin ang inobasyon, at isulong ang napapanatiling pag-unlad ng ekonomiya sa lalawigan ng Camiguin.