Affected by the Recent Typhoons? Check Out the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan

The Philippines’ geographic location makes it vulnerable to natural calamities like volcanic eruptions, storm surges, flooding, landslides, and drought. It exposes Filipinos to tragic incidents and severe distress and losses. 

Fortunately, those affected by calamities are eligible for different forms of assistance, including monetary aid, loans, and other relief operations.

In this article, we will discuss the financial aid for members of the Home Development Mutual Fund, more popularly known as the Pag-IBIG Fund. Learn how to apply for a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan, its cash assistance for calamity-stricken members.

What is a State of Calamity?

A state of calamity is a condition or situation where an area or people suffer a terrible loss, severe impact, or lasting distress brought by natural disasters and man-made situations.

The government declares a state of calamity according to the following factors:

• The number of lives and properties affected
• The halting of business and other operations
• The inability of the citizens or residents to live a normal life

What is the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan?

The Pag-IBIG Fund Calamity Loan Program is a cash loan facility that assists Pag-IBIG Fund members recently affected by a calamity.

Here are the basic features and fees of this loan assistance program:

• Loan amount: Varies but members can borrow up to 80% of their total Pag-IBIG savings
• Payment terms: Up to 36 months

Related reading: SSS Calamity Loan for 2023: Requirements and Everything Else to Know

❓ How Much is the Calamity Loan in Pag-IBIG?

As mentioned, qualified Pag-IBIG members can borrow up to 80% of their total Pag-IBIG regular savings. It includes monthly contributions as well as employer’s contributions. 

Your Pag-IBIG calamity loan amount may also consist of any accumulated dividends earned. However, if you have an outstanding multi-purpose or calamity loan, your existing loan balance will be deducted from the amount you receive.

❓ When is the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Application Deadline in 2023?

Wondering if the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan is available? Yes, it is.

Once Pag-IBIG announces that calamity loans are now available, you can apply up until 90 days after the declaration of a state of calamity in your area. If your city or province was recently affected by Typhoons Egay or Falcon, file your loan application within the given timeframe. 

❓ Who Can Avail of a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan?

Pag-IBIG members who fulfill the following requirements can apply for a calamity loan:

• Philippine resident
• Residing in an area under a State of Calamity as declared by the Office of the President or the Local Sanggunian
• Has paid at least 24 months of membership savings
• Has paid at least five months of savings in the last six months
• Must have sufficient proof of income
• Must have updated payments if with an existing Pag-IBIG Fund loan

The Pag-IBIG Fund allows calamity loan applications for members affected by any of the following events:

• Typhoon
• Storm surge
• Tornado
• Landslide
• Earthquake
• Tsunami
• Volcanic eruption
• El Niño and La Niña phenomena

Related article: Pag-IBIG Online Registration: How to Become a Member Without the Hassle

Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Requirements

In addition to the eligibility criteria, you need to submit the following documents:

• Accomplished Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Form 2023^[1]
• Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card
• At least two valid IDs
• Proof of income
• Selfie showing your cash card and ID card
• Declaration of being affected by the calamity (for formally employed members)

How to Apply for a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan in the Philippines

👉 Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Application Through a Representative

Pag-IBIG Fund members can apply for a loan through their company's HR representative or fund coordinator. Here are the steps:

1. Prepare your Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan requirements.
2. Accomplish the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan form.
3. Write a letter of authorization stating that your HR representative can file on your behalf.
4. Submit your requirements and letter to your HR representative.
5. Wait for your loan application to be processed.

👉 Calamity Loan Application at a Pag-IBIG Branch

If you wish to submit your application to the nearest branch, you must complete your requirements and submit them via the dropbox designated for short-term loan applications. 

After submission, wait for a Pag-IBIG Fund representative to inform you whether the application is verified and will be processed.

👉 Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Online Application

Pag-IBIG Fund members can go to Virtual Pag-IBIG for a calamity loan. Here's how to apply for a calamity loan online:

1. Visit www.pagibigfund.gov.ph for your calamity loan online application.
2. Click Virtual Pag-IBIG, and then click For Members. It will take you to the Virtual Pag-IBIG site. 
3. Tick the Data Privacy box and click Proceed. 
4. Select Apply for and Manage Loans and click Apply for a Short-term Loan.
5. Review the documents needed for the application and then click Proceed.
6. On the Select Loan Type drop-down, choose the calamity loan according to repayment period/calamity/affected municipality or area.
7. Enter your Pag-IBIG membership ID number or MID.
8. Click Validate Your MID No.
9. Once your MID number is validated, complete your contact details and click Next.
10. Click OK on the pop-up window asking if you want to proceed with your loan application. 
11. Choose OK to receive a One-Time PIN (OTP) on your mobile number.
12. Type in your OTP and click Proceed.
13. Select the type of Cash Card or Loyalty Plus Card you have.
14. Enter your card number and click Check Cash Card Status.
15. If your card is valid, click Go to Last Step.
16. Proceed to upload the scanned copy of your Calamity Loan Application (front and back),  your valid ID, and a selfie holding your valid ID.
17. Click OK to submit your application.
18. Wait for your reference number to be sent to your registered email and mobile number.

Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan FAQs

1. What are the interest rate and fees?

Take note of the Pag-IBIG calamity loan interest rates and fees before submitting your application:

• Interest rate: 5.95% per annum
• Late payment fee: 1/20 of 1% of any unpaid amount for every day of delay

2. Why do I need my employer’s certification or signature on the loan application form?

The employer’s signature proves your application's legitimacy and your capacity to repay the loan.

3. Do I need a payslip for the calamity loan application?

There’s no need to submit a payslip because the Employer Confirmation of STL Application is enough to prove that you can borrow via MPL or the calamity loan program. It also signifies your company’s agreement to deduct the payment from your monthly salary.

4. How long is the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan processing time?

The processing time for applications typically takes three to seven working days. However, expect delays as reviewing documents can take longer because of the surge of applications.

5. How do I know if my calamity loan application is approved?

You’ll receive a text message if your loan has been credited to your cash or loyalty card. 

6. How will I receive my loan proceeds?

Get the loan amount through any of the following methods:

• Check payable to you
• Your Pag-IBIG Loyalty Plus Card or Cash Card (prepare this before applying online)
• Your bank account via LANDBANK’s Payroll Credit System Validation

7. How long is the repayment period for the calamity loan?

You can pay your calamity loan within 36 months, with a grace period of three months. The payment period begins on the fourth month following the check date. Payments should be remitted on or before the 15th day of the month.

8. Where can I pay my Pag-IBIG calamity loan?

Pay through any of the following methods:

• Salary deduction
• Auto-debit arrangement
• Post-dated checks
• Through an accredited developer with a Collective Servicing Agreement (CSA) with Pag-IBIG
• Through accredited local and overseas collection partners^[2]

9. I cannot pay my Pag-IBIG calamity loan. What happens next?

If you fail to pay any three consecutive monthly amortizations, Pag-IBIG will try to collect your overdue payment by sending a Collection Notice (via post or email), texting, or calling you.

But if you still can't make the payment, your unpaid Pag-IBIG calamity loan, its interest, and penalties will be deducted from your Total Accumulated Value or TAV, which is the sum of your monthly contribution and any earned dividends from Pag-IBIG Fund.

Read more: How to Claim Pag-IBIG Contribution: Eligibility, Requirements, Steps

10. Can I renew my calamity loan?

You can apply again for a loan should another calamity happen in your area. The Pag-IBIG Fund will deduct the outstanding balance of your existing loan (plus the accrued interest and penalties) from the proceeds of your new calamity loan.

Final Thoughts

The damage caused by typhoons and other natural disasters can significantly affect your finances. Good thing you can avail of government financial programs so you can recover financially. 

For a smoother and faster process, make sure you know how to apply for a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan and take note of the criteria and requirements.