The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is implementing a modified three-month loan moratorium dubbed Balik Ginhawa to provide financial relief to government workers while maintaining the stability of the pension fund.
The initiative supports the broader whole-of-government approach under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to cushion the impact of rising living costs.
Unlike a traditional loan moratorium where members temporarily stop payments, Balik Ginhawa provides assistance through a refund mechanism. This allows members to receive the equivalent of 3 months of loan amortizations in 1 lump sum rather than receiving smaller benefits spread out over time.
Under the program, GSIS will continue regular loan deductions. The equivalent of 3 months of amortizations covering December 2025 to February 2026 will be returned to members through direct crediting to their accounts.
Participation in the program is voluntary. Members who wish to avail of the relief may apply through the GSIS Touch mobile application. Once an application is approved, the loan term will be extended by 3 months without additional interest or penalties.
GSIS president and general manager Wick Veloso said Balik Ginhawa is designed to deliver immediate assistance while safeguarding the long-term interests of members.
“In this way, you can utilize it immediately for your needs. Regular salary deductions will continue to ensure the order and stability of the GSIS, and to consistently protect the welfare of its members,” Veloso said.
Veloso said the program is part of the agency’s contribution to government efforts to provide timely and responsive support to public sector workers.
The state pension fund advised members to use the GSIS Touch app to apply and to check official announcements for further details regarding the refund process.
