Manila: Senator Jinggoy Estrada has called for the expansion of unemployment benefits under the Social Security System (SSS) to enhance financial support for workers, including repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have lost their jobs amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Estrada has proposed Senate Bill No. 1070, which aims to extend unemployment assistance to up to five months. Currently, the benefit provides an amount equivalent to 50 percent of a member's average monthly salary credit for only two months.

According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada emphasized that losing a job impacts more than just income. It also affects hope and family security. He stated that during such times, individuals should have government support to help them recover. "Those who lose their jobs do not only lose income. They also lose hope and the sense of security for their families on how they can get through their daily needs," Estrada said.

The proposed bill suggests that the duration of assistance should be based on the number of years a worker has contributed to the SSS. Members with at least one year of contributions may receive monthly cash assistance equivalent to one-third of the current monthly minimum wage, with benefits ranging from a month to five months depending on their contribution history.

Estrada clarified that the proposed cash aid is not charity but a form of protection against hunger and poverty while displaced workers search for new employment. "The proposed cash aid is not charity. It is protection against hunger and poverty while they search for new employment," he stated.