Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission Chair Frederick D. Go lauded the Social Security System (SSS) for the rollout of its Emergency Loan Program (ELP) — a milestone in the Commission’s continuing efforts to deliver better benefits and programs, faster services, and wider coverage for its members.

“The Department of Finance welcomes the SSS Emergency Loan Program, which offers timely and accessible financial assistance to help Filipinos meet daily needs and begin recovery during challenging times,” he said.

Emergency financial assistance

Upon the proclamation of a State of National Calamity by the President of the Philippines, the ELP allows qualified SSS members to avail of emergency financial assistance ranging from P1,000 to P20,000.

The program carries a 7 percent annual interest rate, and includes a six-month moratorium on loan repayments.

A better alternative to informal lenders

“The emergency loan offers members a better alternative to informal lenders who charge unreasonably high-interest rates, enabling members to focus on recovering from the financial impact of disasters,” Secretary Go said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently announced the December rollout of the SSS ELP extension for qualified members. 

This follows the issuance of Proclamation 1077 on 6 November 2025, which declared a one-year State of National Calamity due to widespread damage caused by natural disasters.

Members may avail of the ELP within one year from its official announcement by the SSS, or until the State of National Calamity is lifted, whichever comes first.