Pag-IBIG Fund offers easier, faster calamity loan access online

By Sally A. Altea

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), or Pag-IBIG Fund, is urging its members to apply for calamity loans online for a more convenient and faster processing experience.

Members residing in areas declared under a state of calamity can avail themselves of up to 80% of their total savings.

“We are extending our assistance to members affected by Typhoon Kristine,” said Pag-IBIG spokesperson Silerio during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas in the Bicol region. “While we hope for no further calamities of this magnitude, rest assured that your Pag-IBIG Fund is ready to help.”

The provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, and Sorsogon were declared under a state of calamity due to the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. As of November 11, 2014, at least 1,500 Pag-IBIG members in the affected Bicol region have availed of the calamity loan.

The loan offers these benefits: Up to 80% of a member’s total savings. Repayment period of 24 or 36 months. Annual interest rate of 5.95%, the lowest prevailing rate in the market.

Online Application for Faster Processing

Pag-IBIG members are encouraged to apply for the calamity loan through the Virtual Pag-IBIG online service platform for quicker processing. By registering an account on Virtual Pag-IBIG, members can access Pag-IBIG services at their convenience using a smartphone or computer with internet access.

Josephine Alamil, Pag-IBIG Legazpi Marketing and Sales supervisor, emphasized the advantages of online applications:

“Members who apply online can receive their loan within two to three days, as all required data and documents are already in place. This is much faster compared to the traditional onsite application process, which takes longer due to additional processing time.”

Alamil also noted that online applications are directly transmitted to the Pag-IBIG branch for validation and approval after being approved by the employer or authorized approving officer (AAO). She added that Pag-IBIG’s Mindanao team is supporting the effort, which has helped speed up loan processing and disbursement.

Loyalty Card Plus for Easier Registration

To simplify the registration process further, members are encouraged to obtain the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus. With this card, members can quickly create an account by simply entering the card’s details.

Aside from applying for loans, members can also use the Virtual Pag-IBIG platform to view their loanable amount and track their regular savings, including any annual dividends.

The virtual Pag-IBIG platform is available at https://www.pagibigfundservices.com/virtualpagibig/ and can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store. (PIA5/Albay)