USTP, SSS seal partnership to strengthen employee welfare and benefits

To strengthen government–academe collaboration, the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) formalized its partnership with the Social Security System (SSS) through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Kasangga Collect Program. Organized by the Human Resource Management Office – USTP System, the ceremony was held at the USTP Boardroom in USTP Cagayan de Oro on March 31, 2026. The partnership facilitates social security coverage for Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) personnel, in line with mandatory provisions of law, and enables voluntary coverage for regular employees, further enhancing their welfare and benefits.

Dr. Benigno J. Dagani Jr., Vice President of SSS Mindanao North Division, delivered the opening message, highlighting new opportunities for USTP employees and promoting safe and secure employment. Meanwhile, Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, University System President, emphasized the importance of human resources at USTP, stressing that employees must be well cared for and that security is a right, not a privilege.

Joining the signing ceremony were key USTP officials and stakeholders: Mr. Colbert G. Rabaya, Acting Campus Director of USTP Villanueva; Dr. Ruel S. Salvador, Acting Campus Director of USTP Jasaan; and Dr. Dennis A. Ampuan, Acting Campus Director of USTP Balubal. Representatives from the Accounting Office also served as witnesses to the signing.

This partnership reflects USTP’s commitment to providing employees across the university with equitable access to social protection, reinforcing its dedication to employee welfare and institutional support. (Roque P. Bermudez)