Mr. Angelo Hombrebueno and Dr. Jean A. Saludadez during the online Orientation/Re-orientation on Mandatory Social Benefits.
On 25 September 2025, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) kicked-off its Orientation/Re-orientation on Mandatory Social Benefits series with a session on the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Organized by the Human Resource Development Office (HRDO), the first in a four-part series aimed to inform and empower UPOU personnel about their rights and benefits.
In her welcome remarks, UPOU Chancellor Joane V. Serrano expressed her gratitude to HRDO for spearheading the initiative. She emphasized the importance of being well-informed, reminding attendees that “being informed means being empowered.” She encouraged participants to maximize the services and support available to them, listen actively, ask questions, and make the most of the session.
The resource speaker was Mr. Angelo E. Hombrebueno, Staff Officer II of the Members Assistance and Loans & eServices Unit at the GSIS Laguna Branch Office. He introduced the mandate of GSIS, the GSIS Touch App, and the new GSIS Digital ID, guiding participants on how to set up their digital accounts. He also covered important membership matters, such as data updates, submission of forms for changes, and contribution rates, ensuring UPOU members that their records are up to date.
Mr. Hombrebueno also explained the GSIS benefits and services, including life insurance, retirement eligibility, separation benefits, the Employees Compensation Program, funeral benefits, and survivorship benefits. He also discussed loans and financial programs, such as policy loans, the Multi-Purpose Loan Flex, emergency loans, GFAL Educational Loan, and the Ginhawa services, along with other GSIS TAP services and non-life insurance coverages. Payment options and updates on Agency Authorized Officers were also shared.
He also clarified provisions under the Portability Law, which ensures pension benefits are portable across agencies, although without lump-sum options.
The session included a question-and-answer session where UPOU employees raised concerns and sought clarification. Mr. Michaei Lagaya, Chief Administrative Officer of the UPOU Human Resources Development Office, served as host and moderator.
UPOU employees joined the online event
The session concluded with a closing remark from Dr. Jean A. Saludadez, who expressed words of appreciation for Mr. Hombrebueno and the more than 70 UPOU employees who took the time to participate in the event. She also noted that the orientation was helpful even for those who have long been in government service.
The UPOU Human Resources Development Office (HRDO) supports the University’s mandate by ensuring the availability of competent personnel. As part of its employee benefits and welfare function, the UPOU HRDO is implementing a four-part series about mandatory social benefits for its employees.
Written by Anna Cañas-Llamas | Edited by Primo G. Garcia
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