The Philippines’ geographic location makes it vulnerable to natural calamities like volcanic eruptions, storm surges, flooding, landslides, and drought. This exposes Filipinos in any part of the country to tragic incidents and severe distress and losses. Those who are affected by these calamities are eligible for different forms of assistance, including monetary aid or ayuda from the government, Pag-IBIG calamity loan from the Pag-IBIG Fund, SSS loan, and other relief operations.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the financial aid for members of the Home Development Mutual Fund or more popularly known as the Pag-IBIG Fund. The government agency offers cash assistance to calamity-stricken members through the Pag-IBIG calamity loan.
Learn all about this loan program, its deadline, interest rates, and steps to applying online in this guide.
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 24 months
Once the fund 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.
What is a State of Calamity?
A state of calamity is a condition or situation where an area or people suffer 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
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
- Member must reside 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
- If member has an existing Pag-IBIG Fund loan, payments must be updated.
*The Pag-IBIG Fund allows calamity loan application for members affected by any of the following events:
- Typhoon
- Storm surge
- Tornado
- Landslide
- Earthquake
- Tsunami
- Volcanic eruption
- El Niño and La Niña phenomena
Pag-IBIG Fund also allows those who reside or work in areas under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) to apply for a calamity loan.
Related article: Pag-IBIG Online Registration Guide: How to Get Your Pag-IBIG Number Online
Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Requirements
In addition to the eligibility criteria, you need to submit the following documents when applying for a calamity loan from Pag-IBIG:
- Accomplished Calamity Loan Application Form[1]
- 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)
Back to the main article: 9 Pag-IBIG Benefits You Probably Didn’t Know Yet
How Much is the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Amount?
If you are a qualified Pag-IBIG member, you can borrow up to 80% of your total Pag-IBIG regular savings. This includes your monthly contributions as well as your employer’s contributions. This 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 will receive.
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 calamity loan through their company's HR representative. Here are the steps when doing so:
- Prepare your Pag-IBIG calamity loan requirements.
- Accomplish the loan application form.
- Write a letter of authorization stating that your HR representative can file on your behalf..
- Submit your requirements and letter to your HR representative.
- Wait for your loan application to be processed.
Calamity Loan Application at a Pag-IBIG Branch During Quarantine
The pandemic has redefined the Pag-IBIG loan application process. Pag-IBIG branches are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (in ECQ and MECQ areas) or 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (in GCQ and MGCQ areas) during weekdays, accommodating only the following transactions related to calamity loans:
- Scheduled releasing of checks
- Acceptance of payments
- Issuance of Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus (for MPL and calamity loan applicants only)
If you wish to submit your Pag-IBIG calamity loan application to the nearest branch, you need to complete your requirements and place them on 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
How to Apply for Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan via Virtual Pag-IBIG
Pag-IBIG Fund members can also apply for a calamity loan online via the Virtual Pag-IBIG. Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit the Virtual Pag-IBIG website at www.pagibigfundservices.com/virtualpagibig.
- Select “Apply or Manage Loans” and click “Apply for a Short-term Loan.”
- Review the documents needed for the application and then click “Proceed.”
- On the Select Loan Type drop-down, choose “Calamity Loan.”
- Enter your Pag-IBIG membership ID number or MID.
- Click “Validate your MID no.”
- Once your MID number is validated, complete your contact details.
- A One-Time PIN (OTP) will be sent to your mobile number.
- Check the Data Privacy agreement and click “Proceed.”
- Type in your OTP and click “Proceed.”
- Review your Calamity Loan application form and click “Next.”
- Select the type of Cash Card or Loyalty Plus Card you have.
- Enter your card number and click “Check cash card status.”
- If your card is valid, proceed to the next step.
- Upload your Calamity Loan Application (front and back), scanned copy of your valid ID, and a selfie.
- Submit your application.
- Wait for your reference number to be sent to your registered mobile number.
How to Apply for Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan in 2021 via Email
Yes, your pag-ibig calamity loan online application in 2021 can also be done through email. According to Pag-IBIG, email filing[2] of loan applications is now considered the safest way to avail of the loan amid the pandemic.
- Download the calamity loan application form from the website, fill it out, and sign. The form should also bear the signature of two witnesses.
- Scan or take a photo of the application form and send it to your company HR, Fund coordinator, or authorized representative who will be printing the form after signing the Application Agreement portion. The company HR, authorized representative, or the Fund Coordinator will scan or take a photo of the form and return it to you.
- Scan or take a photo of your valid government-issued ID, Landbank, UCPB, DBP cashcard, or Loyalty Card Plus.
- Send the application form with your signature and your employer’s signature, valid ID, and cashcard to the designated email address assigned by Pag-IBIG based on your employer’s main office. You or your employer can send the application form and other documents via email depending on your agreement with your company HR.
Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan FAQs
1. What are the interest rate and fees?
Here are the Pag-IBIG calamity loan interest rates and fees. Take note of these before submitting your application:
- Interest rate: 5.95% per annum
- Late payment fee: 1% of outstanding balance 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 the legitimacy of your application and your capacity to repay the loan.
3. Do I need a payslip for the calamity loan application?
There is no need to submit a payslip because the Employer Confirmation of STL Application is enough to prove that you’re eligible to borrow via MPL or calamity loan program. It also signifies your company’s agreement to deduct the payment from your monthly salary.
4. When is the Pag-IBIG calamity loan application deadline in 2021?
Keep in mind that the deadline for calamity loan application is 90 days after the declaration of State of Calamity in your area. If your city or province was affected by a calamity, make sure to file your loan application within the given timeframe.
5. Which email address should I use to send my application?
The following are the designated email addresses depending on your employer’s main office location:
NCRNorth@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by branches in GMA Kamuning, Quezon Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, Cubao, Marikina, Caloocan – EDSA, Valenzuela, Pasig, Mandaluyong - Shaw Zentrum and Antipolo branches
NCRSouth@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Makati-Buendia I, Binan, Makati-Ayala Avenue, Makati-Buendia II, Makati-JP Rizal, Taguig - Gate 3 Plaza, Guadalupe-EDSA, Muntinlupa, SM Aura, Intramuros, Sta. Mesa, Binondo, Pasay, Las Pinas-Robinsons Place, Paranaque, Imus, Rosario, and Dasmarinas branches
Ilocos@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by La Union, Laoag, Vigan, Dagupan, Urdaneta, and Baguio branches
Cagayanvalley@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Tuguegarao, Solano, and Cauayan branches
Centralluzon@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by San Fernando, Tarlac, Angeles, SBMA, Balanga, Malolos, Baliwag, Cabanatuan, and Meycauayan branches
Southerntagalog@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Lucena, Batangas, Lipa, Calamba, San Pablo, Sta. Rosa, Calapan, and Palawan branches
Bicol@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Legazpi and Naga branches
Centraleastvisayas@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Cebu-Ayala, Dumaguete, Talisay, Toledo, Cebu-Colon, Mandaue, Danao, Mactan, Tagbilaran, Tacloban, Calbayog, and Ormoc branches
Westvisayas@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Iloilo-Manduriao, Iloillo-Molo, Kalibo, San Jose de Buenavista, Roxas, Bacolod, Kabankalan, and Sagay branches
Northmindanao@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by CDO-Lapasan, CDO-Carmen, Valencia, Butuan, San Francisco, Surigao, and Iligan branches
Westmindanao@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Zamboanga, Dipolog, and Pagadian branches
Southwestmindanao@pagibigfund.gov.ph
For members and employers covered by Davao-Bajada, Davao-Matina, Davao-Lanang, Digos, Tagum, Panabo, General Santos, Polomolok, Koronadal, Kidapawan, and Cotabato branches
6. How long is the Pag-IBIG calamity loan processing time?
The loan processing time for calamity loan applications is typically three to seven working days. However, expect delays as a review of documents can take longer because of the surge of applications, and the skeletal workforce due to COVID-19 health protocols.
7. How do I know if my calamity loan application is approved?
You’ll receive a text message if your loan is already credited to your cash card or loyalty card. Remember, there is no fee for this transaction.
8. How will I receive my loan proceeds?
You can get the calamity 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
9. How long is the repayment period for the calamity loan?
You can pay your calamity loan within 24 months, with a grace period of three months. The payment period begins on the fourth month following the check date.
10. Where can I pay my Pag-IBIG calamity loan?
You can pay for your calamity loan 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[3]
11. 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 penalty will be deducted from your Total Accumulated Value or TAV. Your TAV is the sum of your monthly contribution and any earned dividends from Pag-IBIG Fund.
Read more: Complete Guide to Claiming Your Pag-IBIG Contributions
12. Can I renew my calamity loan?
Yes, you can apply again for a calamity loan from Pag-IBIG anytime when another calamity happens 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
Typhoons, earthquakes, and a pandemic like COVID-19 can greatly affect a person’s finances. Good thing, we can take advantage of government financial programs such as the Pag-IBIG calamity loan to help us recover from the damages and impacts of calamities we experience. Make sure to take note of the requirements and criteria before applying for a smooth process both offline and online.
Compare Personal Loans in the Philippines and Apply Through Moneymax!
Found yourself in a tough financial spot after a calamity? Worry not because there are different ways to financially recover from it. Aside from the Pag-IBIG calamity loan, you may borrow money from other lenders to cover your emergency cash needs. Take a look at your options below.
| Personal Loan Provider | Features |
|---|---|
Citibank Personal Loan |
|
| EasyRFC Multi-Purpose Loan |
|
| SB Finance Personal Loan |
|
| TALA Personal Loan |
|
Sources:
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