DHSUD, agencies offer moratorium, loans to typhoon victims
DHSUD coordinates with local partners on shelter response efforts, as the agency strengthens its proactive approach to disaster preparedness and housing assistance nationwide.
Photo courtesy of DHSUD
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Thursday announced the implementation of payment relief measures and emergency loan programs for families affected by the recent onslaught of three tropical storms and persistent rains triggered by the southwest monsoon.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said the agency, in partnership with its attached institutions—the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), National Housing Authority (NHA), and National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC)—has rolled out a one-month moratorium on amortization payments for beneficiaries in storm-stricken areas.
Pag-IBIG Fund, meanwhile, has activated its Calamity Loan Program in all branches nationwide. This includes insurance claims for current housing loan borrowers whose properties were damaged by flooding or strong winds.
“Qualified members in affected areas may borrow up to 90 percent of their total Pag-IBIG savings, which include monthly contributions, employer counterpart payments, and earned dividends,” the DHSUD said in a statement.
Aliling emphasized that the coordinated housing sector response is aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to immediately assist displaced and struggling families.
“As directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., we are ensuring that affected families receive urgent support to help them recover,” he said.
“Ang moratorium ay magsisilbing bawas alalahanin samantalang ang calamity loan naman ay magbibigay ginhawa kahit papaano sa ating mga kababayang nabiktima ng kalamidad,” he added.
DHSUD is also working closely with local government units under its Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program (IDSAP), with LGUs tasked to identify affected areas and endorse eligible beneficiaries.
“DHSUD and our key shelter agencies are closely working with LGUs to guarantee proper coordination and fast implementation on the ground. This is a united effort to provide relief and help families get back on their feet,” Aliling added.
Pag-IBIG, SHFC, NHA, and NHMFC are currently informing borrowers and streamlining application procedures to ensure smooth implementation of the moratorium and loan rollout.