SSS provides loans to members affected by Boracay closure

MANILA, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) has set aside P110 million for emergency loans to its members affected by the six-month closure of Boracay.

SSS president Emmanuel Dooc yesterday said SSS members affected by the temporary closure of Boracay may avail themselves of the emergency loan. They can borrow up to P16,000, depending on their maximum salary credit.

Borrowers will start paying the loan on the ninth month after receiving the amount, which will be payable within 32 months.

Last month, President Duterte ordered the six-month closure of Boracay to give way to rehabilitation and clearing operations in the island. It was closed to tourists starting April 26.

The Police Regional Office 6 yesterday reported that no major incident was reported on the island a week after the closure.

“The crime environment is manageable. In fact, we only recorded two theft incidents in a week,” said Senior Supt Jesus Cambay Jr., Police Regional Office 6 deputy regional director for operations.

The Police Regional Office 6 has deployed 630 policemen in Boracay. The Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade has also deployed 200 personnel.

The police force and other law enforcement agencies have also been actively participating in other rehabilitation efforts like clean-up drive.

Cambay said the rehabilitation work and delivery of social services have gone smoothly. – Jennifer Rendon