Insider Spotlight
In a statement, PGEA — which represents over 150,000 members nationwide — credited Veloso with expanding GSIS’s fund base, improving services, and reinforcing transparency.
“We stand by Mr. Veloso,” said PGEA national president Esperanza Ocampo. “He has been a steady and responsive leader. He listens, he acts, and he gets things done for the benefit of government workers.”
Fund growth and reforms
Under Veloso’s leadership, the pension fund expanded from P1.54 trillion at the end of 2022 to around P1.88 trillion as of June 2025 — a gain of more than P300 billion — without raising member contributions.
Ocampo said the growth was a sign of “good management,” citing faster transactions, improved communication, and stronger member engagement.
GSIS also rolled out digital platforms, expanded lending programs, and partnered with PGEA to provide accurate information to government workers.
Warning against misinformation
The PGEA leadership warned that political noise surrounding Veloso’s suspension risks eroding member confidence.
“It is unfair and dangerous when political noise creates fear among our members,” Ocampo said. “What we have seen under Mr. Veloso is steady, credible progress.”
The group said its main concern is ensuring long-term pension security, noting GSIS’s fund life has been extended to 2058.
“When government workers retire, we want to be sure our pensions are there,” said PGEA vice president Glen Pastorfide.
Call for stability
Pastorfide cautioned against politicizing the GSIS leadership, saying Veloso brought “discipline, vision, and heart” to the institution.
Ocampo added that PGEA’s defense of Veloso is ultimately about protecting GSIS and its members.
“We are not defending just one person; we are looking out for GSIS and its future,” she said. “We will remain vigilant.”
