GSIS commits to ensuring affordable housing for gov’t workers

MANILA: The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has expressed commitment to improving housing for government workers, as it ensures that affordable housing programs are available to public servants. In an interview over PTV's Pre-SONA Special, GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso explained that the recently launched housing initiative 'Maginhawang Pabahay sa Bagong Pilipinas' aims to address the housing needs of government employees, as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 'Kapag makita mo ang ating mga kasamahan sa gobyerno at sila ay walang matinong natitirahan, mabigat sa puso sapagkat kapag umuulan, tumutulo ang mga bubong at sila ay naninilbihan nang tapat sa ating gobyerno. Dapat mabigyan natin ng kaukulang ginhawa (When you see our colleagues in the government and they don't have a decent place to stay in, it is heavy on the heart because when it rains, the roofs leak and they serve our government faithfully. We should give them the appropriate comfort),' he said. V eloso noted that the program addresses the challenges government employees face, especially those in the lower salary grade level who could not afford hefty down payments. The 'Maginhawang Pabahay sa Bagong Pilipinas' program features a rent-to-own scheme with no down payment, allowing monthly payments that can be extended up to 25 years. There will be an option to have a next of kin as a co-borrower for those nearing retirement age who will continue the payment later. Veloso said that since the program launch last Monday, the agency has received 1,000 queries about the program. He said the GSIS has identified more than 3,000 housing units in Bulacan, with plans to improve existing properties and offer options for renovation. Meanwhile, another GSIS initiative is the Lease with Option to Buy program that allows the renter to own the property through the Pag-Ibig Fund. The program, Veloso said, is open to those working in the private sector and the government and has already benefited more than 2,500 ind ividuals. He also discussed plans for future developments and renovations of GSIS properties that aim to provide government workers with dignified housing solutions. He cited the GSIS vacant properties and empty lots, such as those in Fairview in Quezon City and Cogeo in Antipolo, Rizal, which are being developed to become government housing. Source: Philippines News agency