The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has set aside nearly P1.5 billion in emergency loans for 62,514 active members and pensioners affected by recent calamities across several regions in the Philippines.
Eligible residents in Negros Oriental, impacted by the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, and in Biliran, where the deterioration of Biliran Bridge disrupted connectivity to Leyte, have until March 12 to apply. Those in Carranglan and Licab in Nueva Ecija, which bore the brunt of Typhoon Kristine, can submit applications until March 13.
The deadline for residents of Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands in Surigao del Norte, where prolonged brownouts have caused major disruptions, is set for March 18.
Meanwhile, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, which experienced torrential rains, has a March 19 deadline, while applications from Aborlan and Iwahig Penal Colony, also affected by heavy rains, will be accepted until March 23.
GSIS has streamlined the application process through its GSIS Touch mobile app, allowing members and pensioners to file loan requests digitally without submitting physical documents. The app is available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Active GSIS members residing in affected areas may qualify for the loan if they have no due and demandable GSIS loan, are not on unpaid leave, have paid premiums in the past six months, have no pending administrative or criminal cases, and have a net monthly take-home pay of at least P5,000 after deductions.
Members with an existing emergency loan may borrow up to P40,000, with a maximum net amount of P20,000 after settling any previous balance. Those without an existing emergency loan may apply for P20,000.
Old-age and disability pensioners residing in the declared calamity zones may also apply for a P20,000 loan, provided their net basic monthly pension remains at least 25% after loan deductions. Loan proceeds will be credited electronically to the borrower’s eCard or UMID card.
The emergency loan carries a 6% interest rate, requires no service fee, and has a three-year repayment period. It includes a redemption insurance feature, ensuring the outstanding balance is fully covered in case of the borrower’s death, as long as payments are current.
