STATE assistance to Filipinos hit by the recent typhoons is continuing.

For government workers, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has allocated more than P514 million for its emergency loan program.

The program will benefit 23,469 active members and old-age/disability pensioners residing or working in the provinces of Quirino, Apayao, and Aurora; and Santiago City and Cabagan town in Isabela.

These areas were declared in state of calamity after being hit by typhoons Nika, Marce, Ofel and Pepito.

Deadline for application in the provinces of Quirino, Apayao, and Santiago City in Isabela is on December 20. For Aurora province and Cabagan town in Isabela, the deadline is December 24.

Qualified members without an existing emergency loan can borrow ₱20,000, while those with existing loan balance may apply up to ₱40,000, provided the net proceeds do not exceed P20,000.

The loan has a 6% interest rate, a three-year payment term, and redemption insurance coverage, which settles the loan balance in the event of the borrower’s death during the loan term, provided payments are up to date.

Eligible active member-applicants for the emergency loan must be residing or working in the areas declared as calamity zones, not be on leave of absence without pay, have paid premiums for at least six months prior to application, have no pending administrative or criminal case, and have a net take-home pay of at least P5,000 after all the required obligations have been deducted.

Pensioners may also apply, provided they are residing in the calamity areas and their net basic monthly pension is at least 25% after loan deductions.

Members and pensioners may apply for the loan through the GSIS Touch mobile application, which can be downloaded from the Google Play and Apple App Stores.

Meanwhile, the GSIS recognized 24 local government units (LGUs) and two government agencies for their efforts to protect public assets during the second Seal of Protection Awards: Pagpupugay sa mga Kaagapay ng GSIS, held on November 28, 2024, at the GSIS Head Office in Pasay City.

The event celebrated the commitment of LGUs and agencies to secure government properties and resources through insurance coverage, a responsibility that forms part of GSIS’s mandate under Republic Act No. 656, also known as the Property Insurance Law.

“This ceremony shows the spirit of Bagong Pilipinas – where leadership is guided by care, responsibility, and smart use of public resources. Every insured building, vehicle, or facility helps us ensure that public service can continue without interruption”, said GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso.

Gold Awards were given to the city governments of Iloilo, Makati, Pasig, and Valenzuela for their outstanding efforts in protecting their resources. Silver Awards went to Aurora, Isabela; Davao de Oro; the Provincial Government of Iloilo; Navotas; Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro; Solano, Nueva Vizcaya; and Tinambac, Camarines Sur.

Bronze Awards were presented to Cabatuan, Iloilo; Caloocan; Davao del Norte; Lambunao, Iloilo; Malabon; Parañaque; Pasay; Passi, Iloilo; Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Quezon City; San Juan; Taguig; and Tarlac City.

Each awardee received a plaque to recognize their support for GSIS’s goal of protecting public assets and improving government service.

GSIS also gave special awards to two national agencies. The Bureau of the Treasury was honored for leading the National Indemnity Insurance Program and insuring important government properties. The Department of Education Provident Fund was recognized for providing personal accident insurance for its teaching and non-teaching staff.

“Let these awards inspire more LGUs and agencies to prioritize insurance coverage. By protecting public assets, we protect our ability to serve the Filipino people and help the country reach its goals”, Veloso said.

The Seal of Protection Awards highlight GSIS’s role in promoting preparedness and accountability in managing government properties.

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AUTHOR PROFILE

Mario Fetalino Jr.