Another overseas Filipino worker (OFW) was reported injured in the major earthquake that jolted Taiwan, bringing the number of Flipino casualties in the temblor to four, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.
Meanwhile, the Social Security System (SSS) offered a calamity loan to members financially affected by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan through online application.
DMW officer-in-charge Hans Cacdac said the fourth victim, a woman, sustained head wounds caused by falling debris, adding she was in good condition and being treated at a hospital doctor.”
The DMW earlier reported that there three Filipinos were injured in the tremor, but no fatality, not even requests for repatriation.
The quake was said to be the strongest to hit Taiwan in 25 years, killing 10 people and injuring hundreds.
In a radio interview, SSS spokesperson Marissa Mapalo said the state-run fund is offering a loan assistance to OFWs in Taiwan who have been affected by the recent earthquake.
The board will still approve the necessary requirements for the loan, Mapalo said.
“It will be the usual offer of a calamity loan assistance.
“Usually, we require a 36 monthly contribution and at least with fixed contribution within the 12-month period from the time of the (loan) application,” she added.
“The usual offer of SSS for a calamity loan assistance is a maximum of P20,000 but it’s still pending approval ng board. We cannot definitely say how much could an OFW get,” Mapalo said.
“Our usual interest rate for our calamity is 10 percent [per annum]. That is a probability to be applied” she added.
An affected member may apply online, the proceeds of which may be released in one week or less, she said.