Insider Spotlight
Finance Sec. Frederick Go led the program’s official rollout on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, framing it as part of a broader push to strengthen financial protection for Filipino workers under the Marcos administration.
“Sa paglulunsad ng Ginhawa Go, mayroon nang maaasahang solusyon ang ating mga kapwa government workers sa oras ng biglaang pangangailangan—na maayos, abot-kaya, at makatarungan,” he said.
(With the launch of Ginhawa Go, our fellow government workers now have a reliable solution in times of urgent need—one that is efficient, affordable, and fair.)
The big picture
Ginhawa Go is designed to address the short-term cash needs of public sector employees, reducing their exposure to informal lenders and high-interest borrowing schemes.
The initiative complements ongoing efforts by the Social Security System to develop a similar microloan program for private-sector workers, signaling a coordinated strategy to promote inclusive growth, social protection, and financial stability.
GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said the lending window is designed to be convenient, quick and secure.
“Napakalinaw ng purpose: Pantawid with financial dignity — a bridge for small, urgent needs,” he said.
Veloso explained that stories about predatory lending often sound dramatic, but the reality is usually quieter.
“It begins with a small gap before payday, a sudden bill or a basic repair that cannot wait, and someone offers instant cash with terms that escalate quickly and with collection practices that create stress and fear,” he said. “Ginhawa Go gives our members an option that is fast without being reckless and accessible without being abusive. It it is a practical tool that protects financial dignity.”
Loan structure
Qualified GSIS members may borrow from P1,000 to P50,000. Loans of up to P4,000 are payable within 30, 60, or 90 days. Larger loans ranging from P5,000 to P50,000 may be repaid over three to 24 months.
Interest rates are set at 6 percent to 7 percent per annum, computed in advance. Loan ceilings and applicable rates depend on membership type and the length of paid premium contributions.
Built-in protection
The program includes a Loan Redemption Insurance, fully deducted upfront, which ensures that the loan is deemed fully paid in the event of the borrower’s death, provided the account is current.
This feature aims to shield both borrowers and their families from additional financial burden.
Digital and automatic
Applications are processed exclusively through the GSIS Touch platform. Once approved, loan proceeds are credited directly to the member’s GSIS eCard or ATM account, with notifications sent via email or SMS.
Repayments are collected through mandatory payroll deductions, helping members stay on track and avoid penalties.
Why it matters
By expanding access to affordable microloans, the government aims to curb reliance on predatory lending, strengthen household financial resilience, and reinforce the welfare of workers across both the public and private sectors. —Daxim L. Lucas | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
