Victims are now trying to rebuild their lives, recover from the trauma and start anew. However, it is almost impossible to do this without financial assistance and support.

It’s good to know that we can avail of loan programs by the government. Last year, when typhoon Frank hit our small town, I was able to avail of Pag Ibig Calamity Loan. To avail of the PAG IBIG Calamity Loan, you may visit:

http://www.pagibigfund.gov.ph/sp_calamity.htm

Note that in order to avail of the loan you:

• must have at least 24 contributions
• are actively paying the contributions
• must be a resident of the area which is declared calamity-stricken

That being said, you need to obtain barangay clearance as a proof that you are residing on that area, and have that attached to your application form. You may download Calamity Loan Application Form (FLS020) at:

http://www.pagibigfund.gov.ph/mt_forms.htm

You also need to coordinate with your HR department as they need to fill out some parts of the form. No need to hurry though, you can avail of this loan within a period of 90 days from the occurence of the calamity.

Hope this helps!

I just attended the tech run of Spring Awakening, Atlantis’ new musical production.  Winner of a Grammy Award and eight Tony Awards, Spring Awakening is a must see musical for today’s generation.

Bold. Haunting. Exhilirating.

I’ve been living a double life. 5 days as a city girl (Sometimes 6) and 2 days as a probinshana in a week.  I guess some people can relate to that.

Even after 6 years of working here in Manila, there are times na na cuculture shock ako, or lumalabas pagka probinshana ko. There times naman sa province, na lumalabas pag ka conyo ko. Minsan nalilito na din ako.

The promdis are slowly invading the city.  I kindda pity those pure bred city boys and girls na wala man lang kinalakhang province. As for the promdis in manila.. Gow lang ng gow!