TESDA and SSS Seal Historic Partnership to Secure Social Protection for Thousands of Job Order and COS Workers

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A New Era of Hope and Inclusion Begins for the Unsung Workforce

In a landmark moment brimming with promise and resolve, two pillars of Philippine governance—the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Social Security System (SSS)—united in a formal pact that breathes life into a long-overdue social safeguard for some of the nation’s most underprotected laborers.

With the ceremonial stroke of a pen on April 22, 2025, at the TESDA Central Office in Taguig City, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes De Claro and TESDA Director General, Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez brought into reality a groundbreaking partnership under the KaSSSangga Collect Program, a government initiative focused on social protection inclusion.

This historic collaboration promises to deliver social security coverage to approximately 3,800 Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) workers currently serving in TESDA’s central and regional offices—workers who, for the longest time, have been left out of traditional government employment benefits due to the precarious nature of their contracts.

A Leap Toward Equity

For years, JO and COS workers have formed the backbone of public service operations, often bearing the same workloads and responsibilities as regular employees, yet receiving none of the protection that shields most government workers from life’s financial uncertainties. They are the invisible workforce—now finally seen.

With this partnership, TESDA’s JO and COS workers gain access to SSS’s comprehensive suite of benefits: sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, death, funeral, and loan programs—crucial safety nets that recognize their dignity and contributions to nation-building.

“This is more than an agreement. It’s an act of justice. It’s our affirmation that every worker counts,” said Secretary Benitez in an emotionally charged address during the signing.

An Open Door for All

Even TESDA’s 4,300 regular employees are not left out of this forward-thinking endeavor. Under the new arrangement, they may enroll as voluntary SSS members, ensuring continuity of contributions they made prior to government service—either from private sector jobs or entrepreneurial ventures.

SSS President De Claro highlighted the program’s inclusivity, stating, “No one should fall through the cracks. This partnership ensures that even the most transient of government workers have access to the enduring protection of SSS.”

Behind the Acronyms: The Heart of KaSSSangga

The KaSSSangga Collect Program is designed to simplify the registration and remittance process for agencies and their JO/COS workers. With the issuance of an Agency Reference Number (ARN) to TESDA, contribution lists can be uploaded, generating Payment Reference Numbers (PRNs)—a digital convenience that streamlines transactions through SSS branches or accredited payment partners, online or over-the-counter.

This digital integration ensures efficiency, transparency, and accountability, fortifying the system’s resilience while empowering workers to easily monitor and maintain their contributions.

A Call to Action for All Government Institutions

The TESDA-SSS pact sets a bold precedent for other government agencies still navigating the grey areas of JO and COS employment. It sends an urgent message across the archipelago: that equity and empathy must guide labor policy, that no worker should be left behind in the shadows of bureaucracy.

This is more than just a policy—it’s a promise. A pledge that the government sees, values, and protects those who labor not for glory, but for purpose.

As the echoes of applause faded at the TESDA Central Office, one thing remained crystal clear: change has begun, and it wears the faces of those 3,800 workers who now walk with greater peace of mind and pride in their service.

For updates and detailed guidelines on the KaSSSangga Collect Program, workers are encouraged to visit sss.gov.ph or inquire through their local SSS and TESDA offices.

This story was brought to you by Wazzup Pilipinas, your credible source of community-centered news and advocacy-driven journalism.

33rd Grand AdClash Kicks off with Cosmetique Asia Corporation Hair Works for a Grand Comb-back

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Things are about to get real for the fourth-year students of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Advertising and Public Relations program (ADPR) as the Grand AdClash is officially back in motion. The 33rd Grand AdClash formally introduced Hair Works of Cosmetique Asia Corporation as the official brand partner and co-presenter during the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing held in April. The collaboration seeks to shine on ADPR excellence and bring back the sleekness and suave to everyday styles through the brand’s range of hair products, designed to boost men’s confidence in their grooming.

The Make-it-or-Break- it Campaign Challenge

Cosmetique Asia, the creators of some of the most trusted names in Filipino personal care, is betting big on the next wave of creatives to breathe fresh life into Hair Works. In partnership with the 33rd Grand AdClash, this collaboration will put PUP Bachelor in Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) senior students’ strategic insights and creative expertise to the test.

Four (4) teams will be this year’s players, challenged to craft compelling campaigns aligned with Hair Works’ mission, vision, and marketing objectives. Following their meeting with brand representatives during the MOA signing last April, the student teams have officially begun preparations for the final requirement of their four-year journey as Advertising and Public Relations majors.

Pogi-ssential Event Partners

Hair Works takes the spotlight at this year’s 33rd Grand AdClash, joined by official brand sponsors JBL Philippines, Lunán Co-working Space & Study Hub, and Legazy Custom Prints. Their support helps bring the event to life and highlights their commitment to student-led initiatives in advertising and public relations.

To help spread the word about the upcoming event, several media partners have come on board, including The Philippine Star, BusinessMirror, EDGE TV, The Communicator, Journal Online and WazzupPilipinas.com . Their involvement aims to boost awareness and support for the student competition.

Academic and interest-based organizations are also part of the collaboration. The Advertising and Public Relations Organization of Students (ADPROS) and the PUP Communication Society have joined the effort to strengthen student engagement and event promotion.

 

The Grand AdClash is an annual case competition for fourth year students of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Department of Advertising and Public Relations (PUP-DAPR). This competition aims to assess and showcase the students’ acquired knowledge and skills throughout the program by developing an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) campaign.

Child Custody Laws in the Philippines: Rights of Parents and Guardians

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The proverb “it takes a village to raise a child” continues to ring true in the Philippines, where it’s typical for large families to share the responsibility of caring for a young child. In the absence of the biological parents, for instance, it’s common practice for grandparents and relatives to step in and assume the role of a child’s primary guardian and caregiver. It’s also no wonder that child custody is among the most difficult and emotional of legal issues that a family can face.

Anyone who is having difficulties with child custody should consult a respected law firm in the Philippines to get bespoke guidance about their legal rights and responsibilities. The advice of a legal professional will help them find the course of action that suits their particular situation. At the same time, it also helps to gain a general understanding of child custody laws in the country.

To that end, here’s an overview of local child custody laws.

What Is Child Custody?

In simple terms, child custody refers to the legal right to take care of a child and make decisions on their behalf. In the Philippines, custody covers both physical custody, which is concerned with where the child lives, and legal custody, which is about who makes key decisions about the child's upbringing, including education, health, and religion.

The main guiding principle in all custody cases is mainly focused on the best interests of the child. Rather than the convenience of adults, courts are more focused on where the child will be safest, most stable, and most emotionally supported.

Who Has Custody by Default?

Custody rules can differ depending on the parents’ marital status. For married parents, both mother and father have joint parental authority. If the couple separates, they may agree on who takes custody, or the court may decide for them.

For unmarried parents, the law gives custody of the child, especially those under seven years old, to the mother. The basis of this is the belief that young children need their mother’s care. The mother may still lose custody if she is proven unfit due to neglect, abuse, or other serious concerns. If the child is older than seven, the court may consider the child’s preference. This is, of course, provided that the chosen parent or guardian is capable of meeting the child’s needs.

What About Grandparents and Other Relatives?

In some families, grandparents, aunts and uncles, or even older siblings can step in as primary caregivers. This often happens when a child is left behind by parents who become seriously ill or simply walk away from their responsibilities. Informal arrangements are common in the country, such as when the parents are simply working overseas and have not abandoned the child. However, there are times when relatives want to pursue legal custody to protect both their rights and the child’s welfare.

The law allows custody to be granted to a relative or guardian if:

● Both parents are deceased, absent, or unfit

● The child has been abandoned

● The guardian can show consistent care and support over time

In such cases, the court considers the guardian’s ability to provide a stable, loving environment and act in the child’s best interests.

How Do Courts Decide Custody Cases?

When a custody case reaches the court, a judge will carefully weigh several factors. These include:

● The child’s age and emotional needs

● Each party’s capacity to care for the child

● The relationship between the child and the potential guardian

● The environment in which the child would live

● Any history of abuse, violence, or neglect

The child’s voice also matters, especially if they are at least seven years old. Courts may consider their preference but will not automatically follow it if it’s not in the child’s best interest.

How Does One Start Pursuing Custody?

For those who want to make custody official, the process typically starts by filing a Petition for Custody with the Family Court in the child’s place of residence. While it may sound complicated, the goal is to establish a legal foundation for the child’s protection and care. It’s highly recommended to consult a family lawyer for this type of undertaking.

What Happens in Emergency Situations?

If a child is in danger—whether due to abuse, neglect, or domestic violence—emergency options are available. A caregiver or concerned party may seek temporary custody through the court or reach out to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for protective services. In such cases, quick legal action may prevent further harm and provide immediate stability for the child.

How About Visitation Rights and Parental Access?

Even if a parent loses custody, they may still have the right to visit the child. This is, of course, unless the court sees visitation as harmful. Courts can limit or supervise visits if there's a history of violence or if the child feels unsafe. The goal is to keep the child connected to both parents when appropriate, while ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

What Can Be Done When Situations Change?

It’s worth noting that custody is not always permanent. If either party’s circumstances change significantly, such as if a guardian becomes ill or a parent becomes more stable, they may ask the court to modify the custody arrangement. Again, the guiding rule is what’s best for the child, not what’s most convenient for the adults involved.

Knowing the basics of custody law helps protect both the child and the caregiver, be it the child’s biological parents or extended family members. Getting legal custody provides guardians with a stronger foundation for making decisions, such as enrolling a child in school, traveling, or even seeking medical treatment. It also offers peace of mind in uncertain situations. By exploring their legal options now, guardians can make a big difference in a child’s life later on.