GSIS e-Cards to get credit loading service by texting

The Government Service Insurance System will start this quarter a texting service for credit loading service for its 1.2 million GSIS members issued with electronic identification cards, or e-Cards.

Called the SMS credit loading project, the system will allow GSIS e-Card holders to reload their prepaid credits to their Globe mobile phones.

GSIS will also start the use of the e-Card for cash withdrawals through Unionbank, replacing the regular automated teller machine or ATM card. Currently the e-Card works only as a debit card for services rendered to a few GSIS-connected establishments.

GSIS executive vice president for operations Enriqueta Disuanco urged GSIS members to utilize the services of the e-Card, which is already accepted as a VISA credit card in establishments with VISA billing system.

"This will eliminate the need to queue and withdraw cash from ATMs or make over-the-counter withdrawals in Union Bank branches," she said. - Jasmin R. Uy