The Pag-IBIG Fund and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) extended the application of calamity loans following the state of national calamity declared by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. due to a series of weather disturbances.

During a Media Kapihan forum here on Monday, Pag-IBIG Legazpi branch acting chief Nelson Ibarra said they would accept calamity loan applications until February next year and will implement flexible service arrangements.

Under a state of calamity, the loan interest rate is at a reduced 5.95 percent, while eligible members may borrow up to 90 percent of their regular savings.

“We are the agency that extends programs, particularly on housing, and we also have short-term loans for short-term needs. Today, we will focus on the calamity loan as we are one of the devastated areas. Here in the province, it started on Nov. 11. Upon the declaration, we have 90 days, so it will be until Feb. 9, 2026,” he said.

Ibarra encouraged members to apply as soon as possible and not near the deadline.

To qualify, members must be active contributors with at least one payment in the last six months; have at least 12 monthly membership savings; have no defaulted loan accounts; and reside or work in an area under a declared state of calamity.

“Members can apply through their cell phone, anywhere they are. An online application is possible and there is no need to go to the office. Also, in the virtual mode, you can see how much contribution you have made and if your payment has been received,” he added.

Eugene Virgo, GSIS-Legazpi branch manager, said the agency is also implementing its emergency or calamity loan, which allows members to borrow up to PHP20,000 without any service fee and at six percent interest per annum.

Virgo added that members with existing loans are still allowed to re-borrow. GSIS will provide a three-month grace period during which no payments, interest or penalties will be collected to help calamity-hit members recover.

“This can be used for the repair of these houses and immediate needs as part of the response,” he said.

To qualify for the GSIS calamity loan, members must not be on leave without pay; must have no pending administrative case or due and demandable accounts; and must have at least three months of contributions within the last six months.

Both agencies said these measures aim to provide quick financial relief to affected members through low interest rates and easier repayment terms. (PNA)