Yarelis Rodríguez announced that important changes were made to the Social Security in Panama. It was emphasized that the Center for Personal Loans for retirees and pensioners was eliminated, with the goal of strengthening the financial sustainability of the institution.
According to Rodríguez, it was established that self-employed workers would contribute 9.36% of their income as employer-employee contributions, and the obligation for legal entities to request a clearance from self-employed workers for making payments was removed. A percentage of the surplus was allocated to the disease and maternity management program.
Additionally, a second block was approved with significant modifications that affect approximately 80% of the financial and investment aspects of the Social Security Fund. It was decided to transfer 90% of the fund management to the National Bank, leaving only 10% for private banking, conditioned by a possible intervention of a Specialized Technical Commission.
Regarding taxes, participation in a selective tax on certain goods and services such as soft drinks, wine, beer, tobacco, among others, was established with the aim of increasing the institution's revenue. A state contribution equivalent to 0.8% of salaries and contribution bases is maintained.
Furthermore, the importance of maintaining the workers' contributions, implementing tiered increases in employer-employee contributions, and encouraging investments that guarantee the financial sustainability of Social Security was highlighted. Payment mechanisms were established that allow self-employed workers to carry out their transactions quickly and securely through electronic platforms.
In summary, the approved reforms seek to ensure the financial security of Panama's Social Security and ensure that funds are managed efficiently and transparently for the benefit of the insured.
