THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said that they had allocated some P1.7 billion that may be used for emergency loans and as well as provide assistance to its members and pensioners that had been affected by rabies and El Niño in 13 areas nationwide.
According to the GSIS, this will affect 77,000 members and as well as the old-age and disability pensioners are expected to benefit from the P1.7-billion allocation.
The pension fund said members and pensioners with an existing emergency loan balance may  borrow up to P40,000 to clear their previous loan and receive a maximum net amount of P20,000.
Meanwhile, for those with existing loans, they may apply for up to P20,000.
The GSIS said qualified applicants include members who are residing or working in Buenavista, Marinduque, where rising rabies cases have been reported, and several locations affected by El Niño, including Catbalogan City in Western Samar, Cordova, Naga City, and Toledo City in Cebu, Iloilo City, Buenavista in Guimaras, Bayawan City and Sta. Catalina in Negros Oriental, Antique, Basilan, and Datu Piang and Sultan sa Barongis in Maguindanao Del Sur.