The Philippine Government Employees Association (PGEA), the country’s largest organization of government workers representing over 150,000 members and reaching nearly half a million public servants, has voiced its full support for Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso.
The PGEA praised Veloso’s leadership amid news of his preventive suspension, urging the public to focus on GSIS’s track record under his stewardship rather than political noise and speculation.
“We stand by Mr. Veloso,” said PGEA National President Esperanza Ocampo. “He has been a steady and responsive leader who listens, acts, and delivers concrete results for government workers. That is the kind of leadership we value and need.”
Fund growth and member-centered reforms
Ocampo cited GSIS’s financial strength during Veloso’s term, noting that the pension fund expanded by over ₱300 billion from 2022 to mid-2025—without raising member contributions. Official GSIS figures show that the fund grew from ₱1.54 trillion at the end of 2022 to about ₱1.88 trillion by June 2025.
“This kind of growth reflects sound management,” Ocampo said. “At the same time, members are experiencing better services. Transactions are faster, communication is clearer, and workers feel that their concerns are heard.”
The PGEA also highlighted GSIS’s digitalization initiatives, expanded lending programs, and its partnership with PGEA in providing timely and accurate information to members through the Speakers’ Bureau.
Protecting confidence and stability
Ocampo cautioned against misinformation and political distractions that could erode member confidence in GSIS.
“It is dangerous when political noise creates unnecessary fear,” she said. “Under Mr. Veloso, we have seen consistent progress, transparency, and dialogue. That should not be overshadowed by speculation.”
PGEA emphasized that the central concern of government workers is long-term security. GSIS has extended the projected life of its fund to 2058, a milestone that reassures members of future benefits.
“Our peace of mind rests on GSIS managing our funds responsibly,” said PGEA Vice President Glen Pastorfide. “When we retire, we want to be certain our pensions are there. We trust the professionals at GSIS to keep that promise.”
Pastorfide also warned against politicizing GSIS leadership. “Let us not put the stability of GSIS at risk over personal or political agendas. Wick Veloso has brought vision, discipline, and heart to this institution, and that deserves recognition,” he said.
Standing guard for members
In its statement, PGEA reiterated that its support goes beyond any one leader—it is about safeguarding the institution for members and pensioners.
“We are not defending just one person,” Ocampo concluded. “We are protecting GSIS as an institution, ensuring due process, and fighting misinformation. Our duty is to every government worker who depends on GSIS to deliver on its promise. We will remain vigilant and continue to speak out for what is fair, factual, and in the best interest of all public servants.”