GSIS refunds P18B loan payments under Balik Ginhawa

MANILA, Philippines — The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has refunded more than P18 billion in loan amortizations under its Balik Ginhawa program, launched in April to help ease the impact of war-driven living costs.

Balik Ginhawa 2 has refunded P9.06 billion to over 500,000 members and pensioners in 24 days, expanding coverage to six months.

READ: GSIS extends Balik Ginhawa relief to six months

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The state-run pension fund launched the program in April covering December 2025–February 2026 payments, then expanded it in July to include March–May 2026.

The expanded coverage applies to active GSIS loan accounts, including housing loans, but excludes loans under the Ginhawa Green Loans Program, namely the Ginhawa Solar Energy Loan and the Ginhawa Bike and E-Mobility Loan.

In a separate development, GSIS also announced plans to develop a Baguio Tree Park on a 3.36-hectare property near Burnham Park.

The project follows GSIS talks with the Baguio City government after officials reclassified the Government Center–Military Cut-Off Road property as Park and Gardens.

The property has since been reclassified as Government-Recreational-Commercial 2A, allowing GSIS to preserve the site’s existing pine trees and prohibit tree cutting.

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“The proposed Baguio Tree Park reflects GSIS’ commitment to sustainable development, responsible stewardship of public assets, and meaningful collaboration with local government units,” GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said in a statement.

“By preserving the site’s natural environment while creating opportunities for public enjoyment and economic activity, we are creating lasting value for our members, pensioners, and the community,” he added.

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The Baguio City government has also proposed converting about 16,000 square meters of the property into a tree park featuring elevated walkways, landscaped open spaces and a modest open-air amphitheater for community, wellness and recreational activities. /pai INQ