The Manila Times
MORE than half a million government workers and pensioners have received loan amortization refunds under the Government Service Insurance System’s (GSIS) Balik Ginhawa program. A total of P7.3 billion has been credited to member accounts as of April 20. Data from the GSIS showed that 598,420 applications have been received since the program’s rollout. Of these, 525,447 applicants — nearly nine out of 10 — have been confirmed eligible and processed for payouts. GSIS said it has instructed its partner banks to credit a total of P7.5 billion to qualified members. The remaining balance is currently being processed and is expected to be deposited within the next few working days. GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso said the initiative forms part of the agency’s support for the national government’s broader relief efforts. The Balik Ginhawa program is aligned with the administration’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport, a whole-of-government response designed to cushion the impact of rising living costs on Filipino workers and their families. Under the program, GSIS grants a lump-sum refund equivalent to up to three months of eligible loan amortizations, covering payments made for December 2025, January 2026, and February 2026. While regular loan deductions continue, the loan term is extended accordingly, with no additional interest or penalties imposed. To qualify, members must have no arrears at the time of application, ensuring that their loan payments are up to date. Eligibility status and refundable amounts are displayed through the GSIS Touch mobile application before submission. Applicants who do not meet the criteria are notified through the platform. Approved refunds are credited within three working days, according to GSIS. The program remains voluntary, with applications open exclusively through the GSIS Touch app until Oct. 31, 2026.
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