From Vision to Reality: Alsons Dev Completes First Turnovers at Narra Park Residences Avia

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) has completed the turnover of its first batch of residential units at Narra Park Residences Avia, the first residential development within Avia Estate in Alabel, Sarangani.

The milestone marks the transition of early homebuyers into homeowners and reflects the steady progress of Narra Park Residences Avia as part of the broader development of Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s 121-hectare township in Sarangani.

The turnover was marked by the first Buyers Appreciation Day of the community, where homeowners and guests gathered for project updates and community activities within the estate.

For early homeowners, the experience reinforces confidence in their investment and the long-term value of the development.

“Based on what I have experienced today, I can already say this home will be good for us in the future. If there’s one place I can recommend for both investment and family, this is it,” said Catherine Cuico, one of the first homeowners of Narra Park Residences Avia.

Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, who led the ceremonial turnover, said the milestone reflects the company’s commitment to delivering communities that are thoughtfully planned and built for long-term living.

“These represent more than completed units—they are the beginning of a community,” Dominguez said. “Our focus has always been to deliver developments that are well-planned, responsive to how people want to live, and built for long-term value.”

Building a Growing Community in Avia Estate 

Narra Park Residences Avia is part of Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s first major township expansion outside its Davao stronghold. To date, 59 homes have been completed within the residential enclave.

The estate continues to develop key shared spaces that support everyday living and community life. Following the inauguration of the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex in January 2025 and the opening of The Abba’s Orchard Montessori School in August 2025, recent additions include the Avia Estate megatent for events and a football field. Upcoming developments include an interim commercial area, a pickleball court, and the completion of the Narra Park Residences Avia community facilities, all designed to support the growing needs of residents and foster stronger community connections.

Together, these developments reflect Avia Estate’s ongoing evolution as a master-planned community designed to grow alongside its residents.

The turnover of Narra Park Residences Avia and development milestones at Avia Estate underscore Alsons Dev’s consistent approach to building communities anchored on thoughtful planning, livability, and long-term value. As the company expands its footprint beyond Mindanao’s urban centers, it continues to apply the same standards across its developments, reinforcing its commitment to creating communities where people can live, grow, and belong.

Discover your future home at Narra Park Residences Avia by visiting https://www.facebook.com/NarraParkResidencesAvia

Sun Life Study Reveals the Hidden Cost of Caregiving for Filipinas

MANILA, PH – April 2026 – A comprehensive new study from Sun Life reveals that Filipina women are the financial backbone of their families, yet they face significant barriers to building their own long-term financial security.

 

Entitled “Women’s Wealth in Focus,” the research shows that 51% of Filipinas bear the sole responsibility of managing their household’s daily finances, while 85% expect to financially support their parents’ current or future elderly care. Yet, despite these heavy responsibilities, only 20% are setting aside 10% or more of their income for parental care.

 

These care responsibilities—including childcare, managing household budgets, supporting aging parents, prioritizing family health needs, and navigating long-term financial planning for dependents—are creating a “triple penalty” for Filipinas with far-reaching consequences in terms of:

• Financial security, where 83% cite caregiving as a barrier to improving their financial security;
• Career advancement, where 68% say care responsibilities limit their professional growth; and
• Self-care, where 68% report that family obligations undermine their ability to prioritize their own wellbeing.

 

As a result, women make significant sacrifices: 75% have reduced spending on leisure and travel, 26% say they have limited investment opportunities, and 25% have taken on debt or loans.

 

Healthcare expenses also continue to pose a significant challenge, where 67% cite high healthcare costs as among the top three obstacles to financial security, and 70% have foregone medical treatment occasionally to support their families.

 

Stepping Up in the Present, But Not Prepared for the Future

 

Despite these challenges, Filipina women are taking charge. Fifty-one percent assume sole responsibility for day-to-day finances, and 59% have the final say in household financial decisions, rising to 87% among main breadwinners.

 

Moreover, 77% are actively managing day-today finances such as such as paying bills on time, while 65% report feeling better off financially than their mothers were—a testament to progress and resilience.

 

However, confidence drops sharply when looking ahead. While 54% feel prepared to cover basic expenses up to age 75, only 27% believe they can sustain themselves beyond age 90. Moreover, only 9% feel very prepared for an unexpected life event.

 

The Path Forward

 

For Sun Life Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer Carla Gonzalez-Chong, the findings reveal a clear opportunity. “Filipinas need—and deserve— support that’s not only accessible but also tailored to their unique circumstances,” she said.

 

Gonzalez-Chong outlined ways Sun Life is doing its part to help empower women. “We have financial literacy content and planning tools that can help women build confidence and take action,” she shared. “Expert financial advice as well as health and insurance solutions are available, protecting both family wellbeing and personal finances.”

 

In terms of building a career, Filipina women may consider becoming a Sun Life advisor or explore employment within Sun Life’s corporate office. Both settings support women’s career and financial advancement while accommodating care responsibilities. In fact, 73% of Sun Life’s active financial advisors are women, serving as trusted partners to Filipino families nationwide. Women hold 51% of the company’s senior leadership positions and make up 53% of high-potential leadership cohort, ensuring that the pipeline of future leaders mirrors this commitment. Sun Life has also achieved near parity in pay, with 50% of women leaders at midpoint compared to 47% of men, demonstrating no significant gender pay gap.

 

“At Sun Life, we aim to help build pathways to greater financial security for every Filipina,” Gonzalez-Chong said. “When women have the resources and confidence to plan for their own futures while managing family care, everyone benefits. We see stronger families, more resilient communities, and a brighter tomorrow for more Filipinos.”

GCash Drives Employee Empowerment to Advance Fintech for Filipinos

Millions of Filipinos today navigate daily life with the support of digital financial tools, and for GCash, the momentum behind many of these solutions begins within its own workforce.

Within its offices, there is a strong culture that encourages employees to take initiative, collaborate across disciplines, and develop services grounded in real user needs, reflecting its view that meaningful innovation is driven by empowered teams working toward shared impact across the Philippines. This relentless customer obsession ensures that every solution developed is grounded in users' real needs.

This direction is shaped by its core values “Change the Game” and “Care Like Owners,” which influence how teams approach both product development and problem-solving. Supporting this mindset is what the company calls its Happiness Chain, a cycle in which engaged employees create better solutions, satisfied users reinforce trust, and sustained growth allows continued shareholder investment in talent and innovation. By connecting employee experience with customer outcomes, the framework demonstrates how workplace culture can directly shape the relevance and effectiveness of digital services.

 

Across its ecosystem, teams are translating this philosophy into tools designed to address everyday financial realities. The group behind GLoan Sakto, for instance, developed a nano-loan offering intended to help users manage small but urgent expenses that traditional financial institutions often overlook. The concept grew out of internal discussions about practical financial gaps experienced by many Filipinos.

For Arens, who joined while the product was still being built, the collaborative environment helped him quickly adapt and contribute to the project. “When I joined GCash, this was my first project, need kong mag-adapt sa ways of working dito sa GCash (I needed to adapt to the culture of working at GCash). But the team really helped me, and they are very collaborative.”

A similar user-centered perspective shaped the work of the International Remittance team, which designed its services around a firsthand understanding of overseas Filipinos sending support home. By focusing on challenges such as fees, waiting times, and accessibility, the group developed solutions including GCash Padala, Visa Direct, and GCash Virtual US Account with support from global payments network Visa.

“Every test that we did, every change, even up to production, it was meaningful ’cause from start to end, we were all there,” states Phing, Product Owner

Employee ownership has also enabled projects that improve daily experiences beyond financial transactions. One team worked on integrating cashless fare payments for commuters using the MRT-3, helping reduce queues and streamline travel through mobile wallet access. The initiative required coordination across technical, commercial, and leadership groups, illustrating how cross-functional collaboration supports large-scale implementation. “We were trusted to do something as big as building the national standards. So that trust really made us very brave,” says Karla, Account Manager (Transportation).

Company leaders add that these outcomes are reinforced by internal systems designed to support employees throughout their careers. Its Human Resources function works alongside business units to align talent priorities with organizational goals while implementing programs centered on the 3Cs Mantra: Care, Career, and Culture—people initiatives focused on providing a holistically designed workplace experience for the GCash Barkada.

These include well-being and rewards frameworks, structured development pathways, and data-driven intelligence to strengthen engagement and performance, as well as inclusive workplace practices.

“We lead and strategize, and we’re able to drive real business outcomes,” Arvin, Leadership & Culture Manager, emphasized. For Franz, HR Governance & HR Systems Projects Manager, his role goes beyond administrative tasks to actively partnering with business teams to drive meaningful results. He noted, “We are not just here to process paperwork. We're here to be partners with the business and help drive it forward.”

As digital adoption continues to expand nationwide, industry observers note that fintech providers increasingly compete on speed, trust, and relevance. GCash maintains that giving teams ownership from concept to deployment helps accelerate development while ensuring solutions remain grounded in real-world needs, cementing its position as a true platform for good.

As Robert Gonzales, Chief People Officer of Mynt, parent company of GCash puts it, “It’s this culture of ownership that enables our Kabarkadas to translate bold concepts into game-changing tools—ensuring that every solution we deploy is not just an innovation, but a meaningful tool that is making Filipinos' everyday lives better.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

VUL: The Entrepreneur’s Tool for Wealth Preservationi

MANILA, PH – April 2026 – For entrepreneurs, success is rarely linear. Income can peak in one season and soften in another, opportunities arrive without warning, and personal and professional risks are part of everyday decision-making. While building a business demands agility, preserving the wealth that comes with it calls for a different mindset – one anchored on protection, discipline, and long-term planning.

 

This is where Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance becomes especially relevant for today’s entrepreneurs.

 

Protecting the business owner behind the business

Entrepreneurs are wired to take risks, but not all risks should be left unmanaged. At its core, a VUL is a life insurance plan designed to provide financial protection for loved ones and dependents, while also offering access to professionally managed investment funds that support long-term goals.

 

"Aside from growth, the starting point should always be protection,” said Ivan Corcuera, Head of Insurance Investments at Sun life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “When coverage is aligned with real expenses and existing obligations, a VUL becomes a dependable safety net rather than just a financial add-on.”

 

For business owners, this protection can spell continuity as it ensures that family finances remain stable, debts are covered, and the business has breathing room should something unexpected happen. While the fund value may fluctuate, the insurance benefit remains a constant layer of security.

 

Built for the unpredictability of entrepreneurial income

Entrepreneurial life rarely means steady cashflows. Earnings can rise quickly during expansion phases and dip during periods of reinvestment. One of the defining advantages of a VUL is its ability to adapt to these shifts.

 

Premium structures and investment allocations can be reviewed over time, allowing the plan to evolve alongside changing financial priorities. When income increases or surplus funds become available, entrepreneurs may opt to add top‑ups to strengthen the policy’s investment component.

 

“Many policyholders overlook how powerful top‑ups can be,” Corcuera said. “They give entrepreneurs a way to put excess cash to work for the long term without having to restructure their entire plan.”

 

Preserving wealth beyond day‑to‑day operations

 

For entrepreneurs, wealth preservation is about more than accumulating assets. It involves managing risk, diversifying beyond the business, and ensuring that value is protected across generations. With a significant portion of net worth often tied to the enterprise itself, balance becomes essential.

 

A VUL introduces that balance by pairing guaranteed insurance coverage with access to professionally managed investment funds. While market movements are inevitable, a long‑term perspective helps entrepreneurs avoid reactive decisions that could derail future plans.

 

“Short‑term volatility is part of investing,” Corcuera shared. “What’s important is having a strategy you can commit to over time and making adjustments deliberately instead of reacting to every market swing.”

 

With proper planning, VUL can support long‑range objectives such as education funding, retirement preparation, and legacy or estate considerations—areas that become increasingly important as businesses mature.

 

Why ongoing guidance matters

Since a VUL blends insurance and investments, clarity and guidance play a critical role in maximizing its value. Entrepreneurs who approach it with a clear understanding of its purpose are more likely to stay on track.

 

“VULs are not set‑and‑forget solutions,” Corcuera explains. “Regular check‑ins with an advisor help ensure that protection remains sufficient and that the investment strategy still reflects where the client is in life and in business.”

 

With the backing of a trusted institution like Sun Life, entrepreneurs gain not just a financial product, but a long‑term partner that supports them through changing markets and life stages.

 

Preserving today, preparing for what comes next

Entrepreneurship is about building something that lasts – whether it is a business, a secure future for one’s family, or a legacy that lasts beyond a single lifetime. While growth often captures attention, preservation is what sustains success.

 

When understood and utilized properly, a VUL is not simply an insurance policy or an investment option. It is a strategic tool that helps entrepreneurs protect what they have built, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and prepare thoughtfully for the milestones ahead.

 

To learn more about VUL, visit www.sunlife.co/VUL101. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.

 

5 Reasons Estate Planning Shows Lasting Love

Estate planning remains one of the most underutilized financial tools in the Philippines. 

A study by Sun Life Asia shows while 64% of Filipinos are aware of wills and estate planning documents, only 32% use them. Even more striking, only a mere 18% of respondents feel fully prepared in terms of legacy arrangements if they were to pass away.

These numbers highlight a clear gap between awareness and action. Many Filipino families understand the importance of estate planning, yet only a few take the necessary steps to secure their family’s future.

Estate planning is more than a legal or financial exercise. Rather, it is a meaningful act of love that safeguards families, preserves values, and ensures legacies continue.

According to Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s leading insurers, there are five compelling reasons estate planning is a true expression of one’s lasting love:

It ensures your family’s future. Estate planning helps provide for long-term needs such as education, property ownership, and other essential priorities. A well-organized plan ensures guidance and support for loved ones, and even the next generation, to build a secure future.

It shields loved ones from emergencies. Unexpected events such as accidents, medical emergencies, or sudden expenses can place a heavy burden on families. Effective estate planning provides financial protection during difficult times, allowing families to focus on recovery and stability rather than worrying about money.

It helps avoid family disputes. Confusion over inheritance or asset distribution can lead to conflicts among heirs. Having clear plans and legal documents helps prevent misunderstandings, protecting both assets and family relationships.

It lets you minimize taxes and financial burdens. Proper estate planning provides strategies to reduce potential estate taxes, debts, and other obligations. It also provides liquidity to cover essential costs such as funeral expenses, allowing families to retain the full value of their inheritance and maintain financial stability during challenging times.

It protects assets from mismanagement. A well-structured estate plan establishes guidance on how assets should be managed and used. This protects the wealth you’ve built from mismanagement or poor financial decisions by heirs who may not yet be mature enough to handle substantial inheritances, ensuring that your legacy is preserved and used according to its intended purposes. 

To make estate planning practical and accessible for every Filipino, Sun Life Grepa offers several solutions that suit various needs:

Sun Grepa Secure Income: A lifetime protection and savings plan that provides guaranteed life insurance and annual cash benefits, supporting families’ financial security.

Sun Grepa ProsSecure: A lifetime protection plan that provides guaranteed life insurance coverage until age 100 with limited pay options. 

For guidance on protecting your loved ones and securing your legacy, consult a Sun Life Grepa advisor or visit www.sunlifegrepa.com.

SUN LIFE PHILIPPINES AND WISH 107.5 BRING FINANCIAL LITERACY ABOARD THE ICONIC WISH BUS

Manila, Philippines (March 25, 2026) – Sun Life Philippines has partnered with Wish 107.5 to bring meaningful conversations about money, music, and mindset to Filipinos through Live Bright Now: On Air, a unique financial literacy initiative held aboard the iconic Wish Bus.

 

The collaboration brings Sun Life’s advocacy for financial literacy and empowerment closer to communities by combining sound financial advice with the universal language of music, creating an engaging platform where stories, songs, and financial insights come together.

 

“At Sun Life, we believe financial literacy should be accessible, relatable, and grounded in real-life experiences,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “By partnering with Wish 107.5, we’re meeting Filipinos where they are – through music, stories, and conversations that resonate. Live Bright Now: On Air allows us to turn everyday moments into opportunities to build confidence and empower people to take meaningful steps toward a brighter financial future.”

 

Music, Money, and Meaningful Conversations on the Road

 

The initiative has already completed two successful legs in Metro Manila, with hundreds flocking to watch across both stops.

 

The first leg, a Stopover Session, was held on February 13, 2026 at SM Novaliches, headlined by P-pop girl group G22, with performances from rising local artists Hakki, Vince Sarceda, Yes My Love, and Oh, Stella! The second leg followed on February 25, 2026 at SM City Bicutan, featuring the much-anticipated Wish Bus comeback of singer-songwriter Zack Tabudlo, who performed his latest single alongside Nateman, Robledo Timido, and Paul N Ballin. Local artist Bianca Lipana also took the stage during the roadshow.

 

Music also paved the way for some meaningful conversations about money through a fun game where the audience had to connect their favorite songs to their financial journey, while a Sun Life financial advisor gave practical financial advice.

 

Through these conversations, Sun Life reinforced the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to financial wellness, and that progress, no matter the pace, is worth celebrating.

 

More Stops Ahead

 

Sun Life Philippines’ Live Bright Now: On Air will continue throughout the year with more stops across Metro Manila, further expanding its reach to help Filipinos live brighter lives through meaningful conversations, sound financial advice, and moments that inspire confidence – one song at a time.

 

To stay updated, follow @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Kickstart your financial journey today by visiting www.sunlife.co/LiveBrightNow.

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.”

Matching Your Goals: How to Choose the Right VUL for You

MANILA, PH – March 2026 – As the world continues to change rapidly, financial goals are no longer one-dimensional. Many Filipinos are balancing protection for their loved ones, preparing for major milestones, and finding ways to grow their money over time. This is where Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance often enters the conversation, but choosing the right VUL starts with understanding what it is meant to do. 

 

Despite its popularity, VUL is often misunderstood as it is sometimes seen as a pure investment vehicle or something too risky to consider. In reality, VUL is first and foremost a life insurance plan, with an added investment component designed to support long-term goals. “VUL is protection-first, always,” said Ivan Corcuera, Head of Insurance Investments at Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “The investment component is there to support long-term goals, but the foundation is making sure you and your loved ones are financially protected.” 

 

As it is with any financial product, choosing the right VUL is important to ensure that it will contribute to your financial goals. Here’s how you can choose the right VUL for you.    

 

1. Start with your “why.” 

Before looking at numbers, funds, or projections, the most important question to ask yourself is: “What am I getting a VUL for”? A VUL can be a good fit if your goals include protecting your family financially if something happens to you, building discipline in long-term saving, or supporting future needs such as education, retirement, or legacy planning. 

 

Your age, income, family situation, and time horizon all matter. A young professional may prioritize affordability and long-term growth potential, while a parent may focus on higher protection and stability. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, which is why aligning your plan with your lifestyle is essential. “Everyone’s journey is different,” Corcuera explains. “The right VUL is not about following a trend; it’s about matching the plan to your life stage, responsibilities, and goals.” 

 

2. Understand the protection component first. 

One of the most common misconceptions about VUL is that the entire premium goes into investments. In truth, part of your premium pays for the life insurance protection, while another portion is allocated to investment funds. 

 

When choosing a VUL, ask yourself two questions: “Is the death benefit sufficient to protect my family’s needs?” and “Will this coverage still make sense if my responsibilities increase?” Corcuera said, “Adequate protection is the foundation of any financial plan. When protection is calculated based on expenses and obligations, the VUL can truly do its job as a safety net.” 

 

3. Match the VUL fund to your risk appetite. 

The investment component of a VUL allows policyholders to participate in professionally managed funds – both local and global – which may include equities, bonds, or a mix of both. These funds offer growth potential, but they are also subject to market fluctuations, and returns are not guaranteed. 

 

Choosing the right VUL means being honest about how comfortable you are with market ups and downs, and how long you plan to stay invested. For those with longer time horizons, market volatility can be easier to manage. Many VUL plans also allow fund switching, giving policyholders flexibility as their risk tolerance or life stage changes, without disrupting their insurance coverage. “Markets move and life changes,” Corcuera notes. “What matters is staying invested for the long term and adjusting your strategy thoughtfully, rather than acting emotionally to short-term market movements.” 

 

4. Use flexibility to your advantage. 

One often overlooked feature of VULs is their flexibility. As income grows or as goals evolve, the plan can adapt. Top-ups, or additional contributions beyond regular premiums, can be made when extra funds come in, such as bonuses or a 13^th month pay. These top-ups go into the investment component and can potentially enhance long-term growth. 

 

“Top‑ups are one of the most underutilized features of a VUL,” Corcuera shared. “They allow policyholders to take advantage of opportunities when extra funds are available, without changing the core structure of their plan.” 

 

5. Expert guidance makes the difference. 

Since VUL combines insurance and investment elements, guidance matters. Working with a trusted financial advisor helps ensure that expectations are realistic, features are clearly explained, and the plan stays aligned with long-term goals, especially during volatile market conditions. 

 

“A VUL works best when it’s reviewed regularly with an advisor,” says Corcuera. “With the right guidance and discipline, it remains a reliable partner in achieving financial security over time.” 

 

Choosing the right VUL is not about chasing quick returns. It is about building protection first, supporting future goals, and committing to a long‑term plan. When understood and used properly, a VUL can be a powerful financial tool – one that evolves with you through different stages of life. 

 

To learn more about VUL, talk to a Sun Life advisor or visit www.sunlife.co/VUL101. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

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.

Sun Life Survey Reveals Most Filipinos Expect to Keep Working Beyond Retirement Age

Manila, Philippines (March 2026) – The Philippines’ aging population faces a growing retirement divide, according to Sun Life’s latest regional retirement survey. While many expect to work beyond retirement age by choice, a significant number are doing so out of financial necessity.

 

The survey, titled Retirement Reimagined: Asia’s Retirement Divide, found that 72% of respondents expect to continue working beyond age 65. Their motivations vary: 53% cite purpose and fulfillment, 41% seek mental stimulation, and 36% value social connections.

However, 71% say they need further income to support their daily living and long-term financial security.

 

"What we're seeing is not a single retirement experience, but two very different realities," said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. "For those who are prepared, working longer can be a choice that offers flexibility and freedom. For others, it reflects financial pressure. Planning early and holistically is what determines which path people are on."

 

An option for some, an obligation for others

The research identifies two groups: 'Gold Star Planners' who are financially prepared and choose when to retire, and 'Stalled Starters' who delay retirement due to financial constraints.

 

Among Gold Star Planners, 73% expect to work beyond retirement by choice, motivated by staying active (38%) and social engagement (25%).

 

In contrast, 20% of Stalled Starters are unsure if they'll work beyond retirement, with half citing the need to save more as their primary reason for delaying it.

 

GenAI emerges as a risk factor, but human-led advice prevails

As more people turn to generative AI for financial decisions, the research highlights a growing risk of self-directed retirement planning without professional guidance. Use of tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini has more than tripled since the last survey, rising from 3% to 11%.

 

However, Filipino respondents are relying more on professional advice as compared to last year, with the same amount consulting banks (45%) and more people turning to independent financial advisors (44% vs 43%).

 

Despite the rise in digital curiosity, this shift underscores a growing preference for trusted, human-led guidance in navigating increasingly complex retirement decisions.

 

Financial Security Drives Retirement Optimism

Financial security is the strongest predictor of retirement optimism. Among non-retirees looking forward to retirement, 67% cite financial security as a key reason, followed by stability (36%) and feeling in control (26%).

 

Conversely, 47% of those not looking forward to retirement cite financial insecurity, while 44% worry about inability to support family financially.

 

Despite this, planning horizons remain short: 25% make no pre-retirement plans, 37% plan only within two years of retirement, and just 26% feel very confident about their retirement plans.

 

The Sandwich Generation Challenge

Many Filipinos support both elderly relatives and young dependents, leading 34% to downsize lifestyle expectations and 14% to postpone retirement.

 

Increasingly, people want control over retirement timing—86% believe retirement should be a personal choice rather than mandatory at a specific age. This sentiment is strongest among Gen Z (69% agree strongly) compared to Baby Boomers (46%). Overall, 82% favor allowing people to work beyond the Philippines' retirement age.

 

Health Equals Wealth in Retirement

Current health status strongly influences retirement outlook. Among those whose views on retirement have changed recently, 55% credit better than expected physical health and 44% cite improved mental health. Conversely, poor health drives 26% of early retirements.

 

"Health is a form of wealth in retirement, influencing both when people retire and the quality of life they enjoy," Sison said. "At Sun Life, we remain committed to understanding the evolving needs of our Clients by offering a comprehensive range of retirement planning solutions."

 

The findings in the Retirement Reimagined survey were analysed and established through a total of 3,006 interviews conducted online across Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam in November 2025. The research explores perspectives around what it means to age, confidence in achieving these aspirations, and the steps people are taking to make their vision of retirement a reality.

 

The full report is available here: www.sunlife.co/RetirementReimaginedPH2026 

Sun Life Strengthens Client Reach with 100 New Business Offices for 2026

MANILA, PH – February 2026 Sun Life, the no. 1 life insurance company in the Philippines based on total premium income, continues to strengthen its presence in key growth areas with the opening of three New Business Offices (NBO), increasing its NBO count to 100 for 2026.

 

The new NBOs, Centurion Tree and Willow Tree, are both located on the 8th Floor of the One Trium Tower along Pacific Rim Drive in Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa; both strategically situated within one of Metro Manila’s most dynamic business districts. The offices enhance accessibility for Clients, advisors, and the general public with its proximity to major commercial hubs in the southern part of Metro Manila.

 

Moreover, Sun Life has also broadened its network in Central Luzon with the inauguration of the Moringa Tree NBO in Pampanga. Located at the BOF Corporate Center building in San Fernando, Pampanga, the office began operations in October 2025 and was formally inaugurated shortly after.

 

“We open 2026 with this momentum as we stay committed to reaching and serving more Filipinos,” said JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada, Philippines inc. “With the opening of three new NBOs, we aim to provide our Clients and advisors with more convenient touchpoints to enhance the overall service experience.”

 

For 131 years, Sun Life committed itself with its promise of being the Filipino’s Partner for Life toward a brighter and healthier future.

 

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

Sun Life Philippines Incoming CEO Meets with Insurance Commissioner to Advance Financial Literacy, Market Expansion, and Regulatory Modernization

MANILA, PH – February 2026 – JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, met with Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado to discuss their shared priorities aimed at strengthening the country’s insurance landscape. 

 

The discussion highlighted the critical need to elevate financial literacy across all sectors of the Philippine society, and recognized education as a key driver of long-term financial resilience. Both leaders emphasized the role of digital platforms in delivering relevant, accessible, and scalable financial education to Filipinos nationwide. 

 

A key part of the conversation centered on broadening the reach of life insurance, particularly for Overseas Filipino Workers and underserved communities through affordable insurance options. By expanding coverage and awareness, both sides underscored the opportunity to bring essential financial protection products to more households. 

 

Moreno and Commissioner Regalado also exchanged insights on the ongoing industry transition to International Financial Reporting Standard 17 (IFRS 17). They noted the standard’s role in ensuring greater transparency, consistency, and Client trust in the insurance industry. 

 

The meeting additionally tackled the importance of updating the Insurance Code of the Philippines to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with emerging risks and digital innovation. 

 

“We share a firm belief that strengthening the insurance sector begins with empowering Filipinos through accessible financial education, relevant products, and a regulatory environment that supports innovation,” said Moreno. “We look forward to deeper collaboration with Commissioner Regalado and the Insurance Commission as we work towards a more resilient insurance ecosystem in the Philippines.” 

 

The dialogue between Moreno and Commissioner Regalado reflects a unified vision for a more inclusive and modernized insurance industry that equips Filipinos with the tools and knowledge to secure their financial future. 

 

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

SUN LIFE ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP SUCCESSION IN THE PHILIPPINES

Manila, PHILIPPINES – (January 9, 2026) - Sun Life today announced that Benedict Sison will retire as Chief Executive Officer and Country Head, Philippines, following a distinguished fifteen-year career with the company.  Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno, currently President, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., will succeed Benedict as the next CEO and Country Head, Philippines, effective 1 April 2026. 

 

To help ensure a smooth transition, Sison will continue to serve as a strategic advisor and Chairman of the Sun Life Philippines Holding Company and the Sun Life Foundation until 31 December 2026. 

Sison became CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines in 2018 and has guided strong growth across the business. Under his leadership, Sun Life has sustained its position as the number one life insurer in the country and today has over 6.2 million Clients and a strong network of over 22,000 advisors.  Sun Life has expanded into new businesses with the launch of the Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation, introduced innovative Client solutions, and expanded support for the Filipino community through the Sun Life Foundation. Sison has played a leading role in the Philippine Life Insurance Industry, having served two consecutive terms as President of the Philippine Life Insurance Association (PLIA). His leadership and industry contributions were honored with the Executive Champion of the Year award at the Asia Trusted Life Agents and Adviser Awards (ATLAA).

 

Moreno has worked closely with Sison and the Sun Life Philippines leadership team since joining Sun Life in May 2025. He brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across multiple industries, including financial services, retail, telecommunications, healthcare, and transportation. Prior to joining Sun Life, he held roles as President and CEO of AF Payments, and Chief Strategy Officer at Metro Retail Stores Group.      

 

“I am delighted to appoint JJ to lead Sun Life Philippines,” said Manjit Singh, President, Sun Life Asia. “JJ has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of our Clients, and an unwavering commitment to our strategy to help more Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. I also want to thank Benedict for his outstanding leadership for nearly eight years. Under his guidance, Sun Life Philippines has sustained our position as a market leader and trusted partner, helping more than 6 million Filipinos to achieve their life goals.”

 

Moreno will lead all Sun Life’s businesses entities in the Philippines.

 

“I am deeply honored to step into this role,” said Moreno. “Since joining Sun Life, I have seen the strength of our people and our purpose here in the Philippines. I look forward to working with our teams to help more Filipinos to achieve their goals for lifetime financial security and healthier lives, while building an organization that is innovative, sustainable, and a great place to work.”