Marikina eyes interest-free loans for micro businesses

The city government of Marikina will offer interest-free loans for a limited number of owners of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the enhanced community quarantine.

According to Maki Pulido's report on "24 Oras," micro-businesses may take out a P10,000 micro-financing loan payable in one year, while small and medium enterprises may borrow from P50,000 to P100,000.

There are an estimated 2,000 micro-businesses in the city that were affected by the lockdown.

However, Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro said that not everyone will be covered due to a lack of funds.

"Kukulangin at kukulangin. Kaya nga, meron din akong pakiusap sa mga pribadong sektor lalo na sa mga commercial estbalishments natin. Kung mayroon silang maitutulong sa bagay na ito para tulungan 'yung maliliit na negosyante, makatulong din sila," Teodoro said.

The number of shops that are open in the city has increased. Though jeepneys are still not allowed, tricycles have been given leave to operate provided that they will limit passengers to one.

"Kami po ay tuwang-tuwa at kami ay na pagbigyan kahit na isang pasahero lang ay malaking bagay na," said tricycle driver Manny Felipe. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BM, GMA News