It’s Time to MOVE: Manulife Philippines Launches Series of Activities Promoting Lasting Health Habits

MANILA, Philippines—Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, continues to champion sustainable health habits as it launched its Time to MOVE campaign, a series of initiatives encouraging Filipinos to make the first step toward better well-being. The first in the series was “Run and Recover” in partnership with Just Show Up, a community-driven run collective that promotes health and connection, in Makati City.

The Time to MOVE campaign supports Manulife’s strategic priority of empowering customers' health, wealth, and longevity and aligns to the recently launched Manulife Longevity Institute, a global platform to drive action that helps people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.

The campaign builds on ManulifeMOVE, Manulife Philippines’ holistic health program bringing together the right proposition, products, platforms, and partners to improve customer’s well-being at every stage, which the company launched in 2025.

It also helps address key findings from Manulife’s Asia Care Survey and #FYP: Future-proofing Young Pinoys study that show Filipinos’ evolving view on longevity, and the gaps between awareness, monitoring, and practice of habits that support better quality of life.

“Our studies show that there’s a strong desire for Filipinos to live healthier, more meaningful lives. Filipinos value holistic health and purpose, but stress, busy schedules, and everyday pressures often get in the way of turning intention into action,” said Sonali Verma, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Our Time to MOVE campaign is a reminder that movement doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a simple decision—to show up and take that first step toward achieving our health goals.” 

The Run and Recover series will continue with two additional activities in the coming months: a recovery-focused session in May that pairs a community run with contrast therapy, and a reset experience in June that integrates breathwork, sound healing, and nutrition. These events reflect a shared belief between Manulife and Just Show Up: that long-term wellbeing is built gradually, through habits that stick. 

To learn more about succeeding Time to MOVE events, visit Manulife Philippines’ official social media pages. 

Filipino Women Prioritize Healthier Years and Financial Independence, Manulife Study Finds

MANILA, Philippines — Data from Manulife's #FYP: Future-proofing Young Pinoys study shows that 60% of young Filipino women prioritize their healthspan—the years spent in good health—compared to 46% of male respondents. Women also place greater importance on financial independence than men (60% vs. 44%), underscoring that Filipinas want a future on their own terms.

Yet the path toward that future is not without its pressures. The same study finds that 73% of female respondents report high stress levels, compared to 55% of their male counterparts. The work-life balance gap offers a telling glimpse of why stress levels are notably wider among women (22%) compared to men (15%), reflecting the competing demands many Filipinas navigate across their professional, personal, and caregiving roles.

For many women, this pressure shows up as sustained stress that affects everyday well-being. One in five experiences shortfalls in sleep, while 15% struggle to maintain a balanced diet, foundational habits that directly influence health, energy, and resilience.

It is worth noting that awareness isn’t the issue. Most survey respondents report strong knowledge of health and wellness—yet 76% of millennial women say stress prevents them from pursuing their desired level of well-being, highlighting a persistent gap between knowledge and action.

“The data is clear: many women are feeling the physical and mental strain of trying to manage everything at once. With careers, caregiving, and financial pressures converging, Manulife is focused on giving Filipino women practical options to protect their health today while building financial confidence for tomorrow,” said Grace Mallabo, Chief Health and Products Officer, Manulife Philippines. 

Turning insights into action: Solutions that help Filipinas protect their health today and build financial confidence for tomorrow

Through its suite of health and protection solutions, including the Manulife HealthFlex critical illness plan, which offers coverage for over 100 critical illnesses from early diagnosis to recovery, and provides additional benefits for gender-specific cancers, including breast, cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer for women, among many others. Manulife Medical Secure, meanwhile, provides up to PHP5 million in medical coverage with cashless access to over 1,700 hospitals and clinics nationwide; and Manulife GoalReady, which supports long-term financial goals with protection and investment features, Manulife helps women safeguard their financial independence, no matter what stage or season of life they're in.

As part of its global commitment to championing longevity, Manulife runs programs such as ManulifeMOVE, a holistic health platform designed to encourage healthier habits through everyday movement and proactive lifestyle choices Manulife Philippines and Manulife China Bank Life also recently entered into a partnership with ACHealth that aims to educate Filipinos on cancer prevention and help improve access to comprehensive cancer care.

“Closing the work-life balance gap starts with tools that enable women to protect what matters most: health, income, and time,” Mallabo added. “With the right coverage and guidance, women can move through every stage of life with confidence, whether they're building careers, caring for family, or planning for the future. That’s how we champion longevity—not just living longer, but living better—by making financial wellness practical, personal, and empowering for every Filipina.”

As Women’s Month calls attention to the resilience and contributions of Filipino women, Manulife Philippines encourages women to prioritize their own health and financial security now and for the long term. 

This initiative builds on Manulife’s refreshed strategy, advancing its strategic priority of empowering customers' health, wealth, and longevity and aligns to the recently launched Manulife Longevity Institute, a global platform to drive action that helps people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives by 2030. 

Pru Life UK Signs Migs Bustos to Champion Protection Across Life Roles

Pru Life UK has officially signed broadcaster, family advocate, and endurance athlete Migs Bustos as its brand ambassador, marking the start of a strategic partnership that highlights the many roles Filipinos carry and the loved ones they protect in each of them.

The collaboration underscores Pru Life UK’s commitment to making protection more relatable and relevant to Filipino families across life stages. Through a series of storytelling, community, and wellness initiatives, the partnership will bring to life the insurer’s advocacy of helping Filipinos prepare, provide, and protect for those who matter most.

“At Pru Life UK, we believe protection is deeply personal. It is rooted in love, responsibility, and the people who depend on us,” said Pru Life UK Head of Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications Kats Cajucom. “Migs Bustos embodies the modern Filipino who carries many roles with purpose—as a father, son, professional, and community advocate. His authenticity and values make him a powerful partner in advancing our mission to help Filipinos secure their future and protect what matters most.”

For Bustos, the partnership reflects his own motivations as a family man and provider.

“Every role I carry begins with someone I love and protect,” said Bustos. “Partnering with Pru Life UK is meaningful to me because it reflects how I live my life: preparing for the future and safeguarding the people who matter most. I hope to inspire more Filipinos to take steps toward protection for their families.”

The partnership reinforces Pru Life UK’s continued commitment to supporting Filipinos across every life journey, strengthening its position as a trusted partner in protecting Filipinos and showing that they can always “Count on Us. Count on PRU.”

Sun Life and Borough Group of Clinics Collaborate to Advance Accessible, Holistic Healthcare for Filipinos

MANILA, PH – March 2026 – Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. recently announced its tie-up with Borough Group of Clinics, marking the start of a shared commitment to provide more accessible, preventive, and holistic healthcare solutions to Filipinos. The collaboration was formalized during a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at the Sun Life Centre.

 

The collaboration aims to create a seamless experience that integrates preventive healthcare, wellness education, and financial protection. These initiatives will make it easier for individuals and families to prioritize both their physical health and long-term security. The tie-up will focus on expanding access to quality healthcare services, increasing awareness on preventive health, and introducing wellness programs for Sun Life Clients, advisors, and employees.

 

“Our collaboration with Borough Group of Clinics reflects our belief that good health is the foundation of a brighter future,” said JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. “By joining forces, we can offer Filipinos a more compassionate and connected healthcare experience. Together, we are opening doors to meaningful, long-term well-being.”

 

Dr. Ches Heredia, CEO and Head Ophthalmologist of Borough Lasik Center, added, “At Borough Group of Clinics, our mission has always been to deliver the highest standard of healthcare to every Filipino. With our nationwide presence across the same key cities as Sun Life Philippines, Borough Lasik Center and Borough Medical Clinics are well-positioned to bring accessible, life-changing care closer to their clients and employees.”

 

The MOA signing event was attended by JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc.; Atty. Paolo Macapagal, General Counsel of Sun Life Philippines; Abigail Viaje, Chief Actuary of Sun Life Philippines; Dr. Ches Heredia, CEO and Head of Borough Lasik Center; Karlo Sanchez, General Manager of Borough Group of Clinics; Anne Sino Cruz, Marketing Head of Borough Group of Clinics

 

Through this strategic tie-up, Sun Life and Borough Group of Clinics reaffirm their shared commitment to empowering Filipinos to work towards improving their overall health and well-being. By bringing together preventive healthcare, wellness education, and financial protection, the collaboration supports Sun Life’s purpose of helping Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, while contributing to a more accessible and holistic healthcare landscape in the Philippines.

 

To learn more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

GLoan Makes Borrowing Worry-Free with Free Health and Loan Insurance, Giving Borrowers Extra Protection

Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.

Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially. 

“Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”

By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.

Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days. 

The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled. 

The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products. 

“We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”

GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation, a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services. 

"Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.

This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies. 

“This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded. 

Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.

GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2026. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65, fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor. 

For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.

Allianz PNB Life Champions Single Moms with MaPanatag Initiative

Manila, Philippines – Allianz PNB Life, one of the leading life insurers in the Philippines, has launched MaPanatag, a socially inclusive initiative designed to address the unique needs and everyday challenges of single mothers. With an estimated 15 million single parents in the country, 95% of whom are women, Allianz recognizes the importance of supporting this community to help ease their daily burdens and secure a brighter tomorrow.

“MaPanatag” represents the peace of mind and assurance that Allianz aims to bring to single moms as they balance their responsibilities and nurture their families.

“The MaPanatag proposition is a testament to the care and support we want to extend to single moms,” said Joe Gross, President and CEO of Allianz PNB Life.

The inspiration behind MaPanatag began with a heartfelt conversation Joe had with a single mom from Allianz. During their exchange, she shared her worries about her child’s future—something that deeply resonated with him, as he himself was raised by a single mother.

“Single moms often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders,” Gross said. “Through MaPanatag, we want them to know they don’t have to face their fears alone. With Allianz by their side, they can be assured that their children will always be cared for.”

To ensure authenticity and relevance, the initiative’s development was led by three single moms from Allianz PNB Life. Their insights, along with the stories of Mombassadors from both PNB and Allianz, shaped the initiative to truly reflect the realities of single motherhood.

“MaPanatag was made by single moms, for single moms. It’s one of Allianz’s fastest-curated propositions—built to address real needs while ensuring accessibility and accuracy,” added Gross.

The Mombassadors from Allianz PNB Life include Apple Isidro, who shared her story of strength and perseverance; Heidi Larosa, whose journey is anchored on faith despite hardship; and Janella Reyes, who found victory through trials. Representing PNB are Rosemary Fernandez, who spoke about finding grace, strength, and love; Angel Galut, whose story reflects courage and resilience; and Aira Carmelo, who became stronger at every turn of her journey. 

Holistic Support for Single Moms

The MaPanatag initiative provides comprehensive support for single moms through three (3) core benefits:

1. eAZy Health – A renewable life and health protection plan covering critical illness, accidental death, disability, dismemberment, and total and permanent disability—giving moms peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. It can be availed for as low as P970 per month. 

2. HerBox – A curated set of exclusive benefits for single moms, including a dedicated wellness benefit of ₱2,000 in the first year and ₱1,000 annually from Years 2–5, plus discounts and perks from partner clinics, pharmacies, wellness services, and mom-and-baby essentials.

3. Opportunity to Earn – Access to join the Allianz distribution team, allowing single moms to gain additional income to support their families.

Through these benefits, Allianz PNB Life reinforces its commitment to being a true partner to mothers raising their families singlehandedly.

“Single moms go above and beyond to provide for their families—but they shouldn’t have to face tomorrow’s uncertainties alone,” Gross emphasized. “MaPanatag is our way of helping them live strong today, with the assurance that tomorrow is secure.”

A Commitment to Inclusive Protection and Sustainability

MaPanatag underscores Allianz’s commitment to inclusive protection—ensuring that no mother feels she must carry the world’s weight alone.

“Sustainability has always been part of Allianz PNB Life’s journey,” Gross said. “MaPanatag aligns perfectly with our goal of building resilient and inclusive communities. That’s why we’re channeling our resources to make it more accessible and impactful, reaching as many single moms as possible.”

The partnership with PNB will play a crucial role in making MaPanatag available nationwide through PNB’s extensive network of branches.

Ultimately, MaPanatag reflects Allianz’s belief that no mom should ever feel alone in her journey—and that every act of love she makes for her children should be supported, celebrated, and remembered.

For more information about MaPanatag and Allianz eAZy Health, visit www.allianzpnblife.ph, drop by a PNB branch near you, or follow Allianz PNB Life on Facebook and Instagram.

New Manulife Report Finds Asians Want to Live Better, Not Just Longer, as They Prepare for a 40-Year Retirement

MANILA, Philippines – As people across Asia live longer than ever before, a growing number are prioritizing purpose and quality in a longer life, according to the 2025 Financial Resilience and Longevity Report for Asia (the “Report”) unveiled by Manulife Wealth & Asset Management (Manulife WAM). The Report reveals that as longevity rises across the region, people aspire to live independently and healthily in retirement, but many still face challenges in achieving lasting financial resilience.

The Report, which focuses on Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, builds on Manulife’s established commitment to longevity preparedness and is exemplified by the recent launch of Manulife’s Longevity Institute, a global platform that seeks to drive action to help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.

Calvin Chiu, Head of Asia Retirement, Manulife and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Investment Management Hong Kong said, “Longevity is reshaping how people across Asia think about retirement. We’re seeing people rethink what retirement means—not simply living longer, but living better. Financial independence, health, and well-being now define success in this new era of longevity.”

Living Better, Not Just Longer

The report shows that most Asians prioritize quality of life over longevity itself. Fewer than 1 in 10 respondents said they wanted to live longer regardless of circumstances, while half said they value living a meaningful life, and over one-third expressed a desire not to be a burden on others. When envisioning later life, people overwhelmingly said they hope to be financially independent, stay physically and mentally active, and age gracefully while maintaining their desired standard of living.

These findings highlight a strong desire for autonomy and wellbeing, with many viewing health and financial stability as deeply connected. Across all four markets, three-quarters of respondents believe that their financial wellbeing affects their physical and mental health, while 85% said financial wellbeing influences their mental state during retirement.

“People across Asia want to enjoy their extended lifespans with dignity, purpose, and freedom,” added Chiu. “That requires a shift in mindset—from saving for retirement to planning for longevity.”

Asia’s Financial Readiness Gap

Despite this awareness, less than half of respondents across Asia believe they will have enough funds to retire comfortably. Confidence varies widely across markets, from just 48% in Hong Kong to 77% in Indonesia. Mid-career individuals aged between 45 and 54 are the least optimistic about their preparedness, underscoring a need for more proactive financial planning.

Cash continues to dominate the average Asian portfolio, representing roughly half of non-property investments, reflecting ongoing caution toward risk. Many respondents cited fear of capital loss and lack of investment knowledge as reasons for avoiding higher-yielding assets. Property, once the cornerstone of Asian retirement planning, is losing its dominance. While most still regard it as important, only 3 in 10 now see it as less of a priority than before.

“Holding too much cash and relying solely on property can leave people vulnerable to inflation and income shortfalls,” said Chiu. “Building financial resilience means diversifying across income-generating and inflation-protected assets—and doing so early.”

Advice Matters: Professional Guidance Drives Confidence

The Report found a clear link between financial advice and confidence. Across all four markets, people who work with a financial planner are significantly more likely to feel ready for the future. In Indonesia, for example, 89% of those with a financial planner said they expect to have sufficient funds for retirement, compared to 63% of those without one. In Hong Kong, that gap widens further, with 62% of people who work with a planner feel confident versus only 29% without. Insurance agents and financial planners from insurance companies remain the most common sources of advice across Asia, followed by bank relationship managers and independent advisors.

“Professional advice can make all the difference,” Chiu added. “With the right guidance, people can move from simply saving to actively investing, giving them greater control over their future income and lifestyle.”

Generational and Market Insights Across Asia

Regional patterns reveal both progress and disparity. In Hong Kong, less than half (48%) of respondents believe they will have sufficient funds for retirement. However, many are taking action—around two-thirds (65%) plan to shift part of their cash into higher-return investments. In Malaysia, confidence is moderate, with 58% expecting to be financially ready. Many Malaysians expressed strong interest in pension solutions that provide steady retirement income and protection against inflation.

In contrast, Indonesia emerged as the most financially confident market, with 77% of respondents believing they will have enough savings for the future. Indonesians also show the willingness to diversify, with 69% saying they are now more open to investing for income rather than holding property. Meanwhile, the Philippines reflects both optimism and transition: while just over half (52%) of respondents feel financially prepared for the future, 73% now prefer income-generating investments over property (71%), signaling a generational shift in retirement thinking.

These market insights collectively underscore a growing recognition that living longer requires new investment habits, diversified portfolios, and a stronger focus on financial literacy.

The Report also highlights a common insight across generations. Younger, mid-life and older groups consistently ranked a work-free new chapter as their top priority when it comes to retirement outlook. This desire is strongest among the younger group (25-34) at 55% and the older group (60+) at 58%, while mid-life groups (45–59) show a more balance view with many leaning toward balancing work and life with continued employment at the same time. 

A Call to Action: Building Longevity Confidence

As life expectancy continues to rise, the Report urges individuals, employers, and financial planners to rethink traditional retirement strategies. Manulife WAM advocates a more holistic approach to longevity—one that combines early financial planning, diversified investments, and continuous professional guidance to help people thrive through longer retirements.

“Longevity should be a source of optimism, not anxiety,” Chiu concluded. “With the right financial habits and guidance, people can turn longer lives into better lives—and that’s the vision driving our work at Manulife.”