By Michelle Ducut
The Pag-IBIG Fund in the Ilocos Region has launched the One Plus One (OPO) raffle promo, aimed at encouraging workers in the informal sector and students to join the fund and access its benefits.
Merriam Pammitan, Pag-IBIG area head for branches in Urdaneta, La Union, Vigan, Dagupan, Ilocos Norte, and Baguio, announced the initiative on Thursday during a press conference. The program specifically targets market vendors, jeepney drivers, store clerks, overseas Filipino workers, migrant workers, and students.
Pammitan emphasized that the campaign aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal of providing inclusive access to government services. “This initiative is a way to encourage more individuals to become active members and enjoy the fund’s numerous benefits,” she said.
Under the OPO program, current members can act as “influencers,” recruiting new members or reactivating inactive accounts. Each influencer is assigned a unique code, which recruits use when depositing savings. This generates raffle entries for both the influencer and the recruit.
The raffle includes multiple minor draws in March, June, and September, with a grand draw offering a top prize of PHP500,000 scheduled for December 2025. The promo is open to individuals aged 18 and above.
Pammitan highlighted the advantages of membership, such as government-guaranteed, tax-free savings with up to 6.5 percent annual dividends, multi-purpose and calamity loans, and death benefits. She noted that savings consist of both personal contributions and those from employers, allowing members to grow their total funds over time.
“Pag-IBIG savings do not become dormant like bank accounts. They continue earning dividends and can be withdrawn upon retirement, disability, or death,” Pammitan added.
Philip Raymond Salem, Baguio branch head, said Pag-IBIG is collaborating with various organizations to reach more potential members. While there is no fixed target for the promo, Salem expressed confidence in its ability to attract widespread participation.