On 25 November 2025, the Saint Louis University (SLU) Human Resources Department (HRD) and Finance Office hosted a comprehensive financial planning and housing loan program with the theme “Purpose-Driven Finance: Innovate, Collaborate, and Achieve” at Fr. Theophile Verbist Hall.
The event promised a day of interactive discussions and valuable insights into planning for financial stability and accessing housing loans that was designed to benefit university staff and office representatives. The program also runs an identical session in the afternoon to accommodate more employees.
The opening remarks by the SLU-HRD Director Mr. Jeremy Dela Cruz, represented by Assistant Director Jean Karen Jaime, emphasized the importance of financial discipline for all attendees. The HRD highlighted the need for staff to remain aware of their spending habits and exercise responsible management of their finances, reminding everyone that careful budgeting and mindful financial choices are foundations for both personal and professional well-being within the university community.
The first informative session on financial planning was led by Mr. Dennis Gundran, Regional Economic Affairs staff at Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, North Luzon Regional Office. During the session, Mr. Gundran delved into key topics such as financial planning, effective saving strategies, budgeting techniques, and managing debt. He emphasized the importance of understanding these concepts to build a strong financial foundation and make informed decisions for long-term financial stability.
Mr. Gundran also shared practical tips on how to prioritize expenses, avoid common financial pitfalls, and set achievable financial goals, equipping participants with useful knowledge to improve their personal money management.
The session moved to an in-depth presentation on Pag-IBIG Housing Loan opportunities, by Ms. Analyn Daw-as that is vital for employees aiming to secure affordable housing. The in-depth presentation by Ms. Daw-as highlighted the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan as an essential opportunity for employees seeking affordable home ownership options.
The key details and benefits of the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan, as depicted in the session, provide holistic information on how members can leverage this program.
The loan offers significant advantages for eligible employees:
- Borrow up to ₱6 million to buy a dream house, condo, or residential lot, making a wide range of property options accessible.
- Enjoy low interest rates and up to 30 years to pay, ensuring monthly amortizations remain manageable and more affordable for families.
- Multiple loans are allowed, letting members apply again as long as their total loans do not exceed ₱6 million.
- No prepayment penalty, so members can pay off their loan ahead of schedule without extra fees, offering financial flexibility if circumstances improve.
Another session slide explains what the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan can be used for:
- Purchase of a residential lot (or adjoining lots, up to 1,000 sq.m.).
- Purchase or mortgage of a residential house and lot, townhouse, or condominium unit—whether brand new or previously owned—including those with parking slots.
- Construction of a new house, providing an option for those who already own land but want to build.
- Improvement of an existing house, which may include renovations or upgrades.
- Refinancing an existing housing loan for potentially better terms and lower interest rates, which can considerably ease financial burden for employees paying higher interest from other lenders.
Pag-IBIG’s flexible, affordable housing loan program directly supports employees’ long-term security and well-being:
- Makes property ownership possible even for those with moderate incomes.
- Reduces reliance on high-interest private loans.
- Creates opportunities for families to settle in safe, comfortable homes suited to their needs.
Taking full advantage of this program empowers employees to build a solid future, aided by favorable terms designed to lessen their financial stress and encourage home ownership. The event stands to make a significant impact on participants’ financial literacy and well-being, contributing to the university community’s long-term sustainability and development. The collaborative nature of the event reflects the institution’s commitment to holistic employee support and empowerment.
The event aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by delivering quality financial education (SDG 4), the program helps staff develop relevant skills for personal and professional success. Access to affordable housing through programs like Pag-IBIG supports (SDG 11) by contributing to safe, inclusive, and sustainable living environments. By organizing these sessions in partnership with university offices and financial institutions, the event embodies (SDG 17) demonstrating how strategic collaboration amplifies the impact of sustainable development strategies on campus and beyond with the CICM Advocacy of Dialogue.
The collaborative nature of the event reflects the institution’s commitment to holistic employee support and empowerment.(Article by: Rennalyn Charmie Tajon, UIO Intern | Photos by: Trisha Andreah Visperas, UIO Intern)
