Typhoons are no doubt one of nature’s most destructive forces. Last year, typhoon Ondoy brought 16.7 inches of rain in only 12 hours and packed winds of 85 kph. It left in its wake hundreds of damaged homes and thousands of Filipinos wondering how to rebuild their lives.

Thankfully, the government offers calamity or salary loans for victims of natural disasters.

Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) 
GSIS offers financial assistance to bona fide employees of a government office within the calamity area. To apply, they may use their eCArd Plus on any GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (G-W@PS) kiosks, or apply over-the-counter in GSIS offices covering calamity-declared areas.

Social Security System (SSS)
SSS members must fully accomplish the SSS (ISL 101) calamity loan form and comply with the requirements. They must submit a barangay certificate certifying that they live in the calamity-declared area. If they are employed, they may seek assistance from their HR department.

Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG)
Pag-IBIG card holders may apply for a loan provided they have paid at least a total of 24 monthly contributions throughout his membership, including two monthly contributions within a year of filing the loan. They must also secure a barangay certificate stating that they live in a calamity area. They may download the form online or visit the nearest Pag-IBIG office.

For updates, questions or concerns, kindly visit their official websites.