ILOILO CITY (PIA) --  The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is optimistic to seal a partnership with the local government units for the implementation of the ‘Pabahay’ Program for government workers here in Western Visayas.

In his recent visit to Iloilo City, GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso said that the agency will coordinate with LGUs on the possible location of properties to be developed for this housing project.   

“Kami ay makikipag-ugnayan sa local government units sapagkat ay pwede kaming magkaroon ng programa, understanding (Memorandum of Understanding) kung papaano kami magkaroon ng pabahay kung mayroon silang lupa na maibibigay sa GSIS na aming madedevelop. Ang layunin natin ay mabigyan ng pabahay ang atin pong mga kawani ng gobyerno but at the same time give the returns to our members,” Veloso said in a press conference.

Under this program, GSIS members can avail a rent-to-own option at an affordable financing plan.

Moreover, areas such as Alta Tierra in Jaro district, Zamora Corner Sto. Rosario St., City Proper, and Florvel Homes in Oton town have over a hundred residential properties available for lease.

Veloso recalled that the GSIS has launched the Pabahay Para sa Bagong Bayaning Manggagawa (PBBM) housing program during its 86th anniversary celebration to help the government resolve the massive housing backlog of over 6 million units.

This program comprises a rent-to-own scheme for the 15,000 GSIS residential properties, construction of decent low-cost housing units for government workers, and an extension of the Housing Loan Condonation Program until 2025.

To note, GSIS earlier inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Quezon City government for the Pabahay Program.

Under this, GSIS will build high-rise residential condominiums on its Fairview Quezon City properties to address the housing requirements of its members, particularly those working around the area. Quezon City, meanwhile, will support GSIS by providing the needed permits and clearances, including the required zoning exemption for construction.

Veloso said that this housing plan in Quezon City offers a lengthy payment period until 30 years and a monthly amortization of P12,000.00. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo)