Pag-IBIG's Calamity Loan program ready for members affected by Taal unrest

MANILA, Philippines — Pag-IBIG Fund has allocated Calamity Loan funds for 2020 to help members affected by calamities, including the Taal Volcano eruption, top executives announced last January 16. 

“Pag-IBIG Fund has allocated calamity loan funds this year, which will help our members living in Batangas and Cavite following the destructive effects of the ash fall and earthquakes caused by the eruption of Taal Volcano," said Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, who also heads the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. 

"This is in line with the directive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to provide Filipinos with responsive social benefits during trying times,” he said.

Under the Calamity Loan program, eligible members may borrow up to 80% of their total Pag-IBIG Savings, which consist of their monthly contributions, their employer’s contributions, and accumulated dividends earned.

Affected members have 90 days from the declaration of a state of calamity in their area to avail of the loan. 

Considering the plight of the borrowers, Pag-IBIG Fund is offering the Calamity Loan at a rate of 5.95% per annum—the lowest rate available in the market.

The loan is payable over a period of 24 months, with the first payment deferred. Initial payment is due on the third month after the loan is released. 

“We never want calamities to happen but when they do, we are ready to respond to the needs of affected members. In 2019, we released P1.51 billion to help 89,570 members affected by various disasters. For 2020, we hope to help more members with the allocated funds,” del Rosario said. 

“Pag-IBIG Fund branches in Batangas and Cavite will remain open even as some of our offices and employees weren’t spared from the eruption. We are actively helping our employees there and bringing in supplies and added manpower, as part of our commitment to bring aid to calamity-stricken members,” he added.