GSIS Offers PHP 1.8B Emergency Loan for Kanlaon Victims

BACOLOD CITY—The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has earmarked PHP 1.8 billion in emergency loans to aid 72,846 active members and pensioners in Negros Occidental affected by the eruption of Mount Kanlaon. Applications for the program are open until January 21, 2025.

Eligible applicants include active members residing or working in areas declared under a state of calamity. They must have updated premium contributions over the last six months, no overdue loans exceeding six months, and a minimum take-home pay of PHP 5,000 after deductions. Members on leave without pay or with pending administrative or criminal cases are excluded from the program.

Old-age and disability pensioners living in the affected areas may also apply if their net monthly pension remains at least 25% after loan deductions.

Qualified members without an existing emergency loan can borrow up to PHP 20,000, while those with an outstanding emergency loan can apply for up to PHP 40,000. Any remaining balance from the previous loan will be deducted from the new loan.

The emergency loan offers a 6% annual interest rate and is payable over three years. It includes redemption insurance that clears any remaining balance in the event of the borrower’s death, provided their payments are up to date.

Loan proceeds will be credited directly to the borrower’s eCard or UMID card for ease of access.

“This emergency loan program underscores our commitment to helping our members and pensioners during challenging times,” GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said in a statement.

To apply or gather more information, members and pensioners can visit the GSIS website at www.gsis.gov.ph, check the official Facebook page (@gsis.ph), email gsiscares@gsis.gov.ph, or call the GSIS Contact Center at 8847-4747.