Methodology
The ESCR Center conducted the study regarding the realization of the right to
social security during the first semester of 2019. The participants come from
randomly selected provinces in Region IV-A, 3 Region VI,4 s and Region XI.5 These
participants represent some of the most marginalized and vulnerable sectors of
society. Consultations with persons with disabilities happened in Batangas City, 6
Iloilo City,7 and Davao City.8 Consultations with farmers and fisherfolk, and
indigenous peoples were done in Digos City.9 There were also consultations with
concerned national government agencies10 including their regional offices.11
The researchers gathered information from the participants through open
forum and focus group discussions. The topics ranged from the circumstances,
issues, concerns, and/or challenges, as well as their recommendations, involving the
realization of their Right to Social Security. The researchers also considered relevant
literatures to identify existing policies, programs and initiatives, determine their
effectiveness – or ineffectiveness – in practice, and identify the best practices and
efforts of the duty-bearers in ensuring realization of the said right.
3 Batangas City
4 Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras, Negros Occidental
5 Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental, Compostela Valley
6 27 March 2019, Provincial Capitol Conference Room, Batangas City. 40 Persons with
Disabilities
7 26 April 2019, Diamond Jubilee Hall, Iloilo City. 40 Persons with Disabilities
8 24 April 2019, Grand Menseng Hotel, Davao City 40 Persons with Disabilities
9 8-9 May 2019, Avenue One Hotel, Digos City. 40 Farmers/Fisherfolk, 40 Indigenous
Peoples
10 Social Security System (5 March 2019), PhilHealth (11 March 2019), GSIS (through
email answered 5 April 2019)
11 Social Security System Digos Branch (23 April 2019), Department of Social Welfare and
Development Region XI (24 April 2019), and PhilHealth Region XI (24 April 2019)
2