VUL Insurance: Your Shield and Your Tool for Financial Growth

MANILA, PH – October 2025 – In the world of financial planning, one solution that has sparked both interest and debate over the years is a Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance plan. While it became well-known for offering life insurance with an investment component in one package, it has also garnered mixed feedback, often with negative reactions from Clients who felt their investments did not grow as expected.

 

“VUL has been misunderstood by many,” shares Ivan Corcuera, Head of Insurance Investments at Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all product, and it’s certainly not a shortcut to wealth. It’s a financial tool designed to protect first and grow second.”

 

A life insurance plan that combines lifelong protection and fund accumulation, VUL’s core purpose is to provide a substantial financial shield for a family when they need it most. The opportunity for growth, while a powerful and valuable feature, is a secondary benefit.

 

Understanding the Nature of VUL

 

To understand VUL, think of it as a single product with two distinct functions.

 

Its primary function is life insurance coverage, which provides a death benefit payout to beneficiaries upon the insured’s passing. This is the financial shield that ensures the family’s future is secure, covering essential needs like education, outstanding loans, and daily living costs.

 

Its secondary function is the investment component. A dedicated portion of the premiums paid is invested in expertly managed funds, offering the potential for the policyholder’s money to grow over time. This accumulating value, known as the fund value, can be accessed during the policyholder’s lifetime for future financial goals. This fund value is tied to the performance of the investment funds chosen, which means its value can potentially grow higher, but it can also decrease based on market movements. “The investment side of VUL is a long-term play,” says Corcuera. “It’s about building value gradually, aligned with your financial goals.”

 

Importantly, the fund value is not just for future financial goals – it also helps keep your policy active. A portion of the fund value is used to pay for the cost of insurance and any applicable charges. Corcuera explains, “This means that while the fund value offers the potential for growth, it also ensures that your life insurance protection remains in force. That’s why it’s important to monitor how your fund is performing and ensure that it’s aligned with your needs.”

 

How Your Premiums Work

 

When a premium is paid for a VUL policy, that amount is not simply merged into a single pool. First, a premium charge is deducted from it to cover distribution and administrative expenses, which gradually diminishes over time. After this deduction, the remaining amount is allocated to the policyholder’s chosen investment fund and converted into fund units based on the current Net Asset Value Per Unit (NAVPU). These units represent the investment component of your policy and are linked to the performance of the funds you select, which means their value can rise or fall depending on market conditions.

 

“The fund units serve a dual purpose,” explains Corcuera. “It’s a balancing act between protection and growth.” A portion of these units is deducted to pay for insurance and periodic charges, ensuring your policy remains active and your life insurance coverage intact. The remaining units continue to accumulate and determine your policy’s fund value, which can potentially grow over time. The fund value can be accessed during your lifetime for future financial goals, offering flexibility while maintaining the core purpose of protection.

 

The VUL Protection-First Mindset

 

It is important to view VUL as a protection-first insurance solution, not as a purely investment vehicle like a mutual fund or stock trading account. “The real strength of VUL lies in its ability to provide a guaranteed benefit to your loved ones,” Corcuera emphasizes. “Unlike a pure investment where beneficiaries only receive the value of accumulated savings, a VUL ensures that they receive a predetermined, substantial amount.”

 

Think of VUL not as a strategy for quick gains, but as a long-term commitment to secure your loved ones’ financial future. “VUL is your shield and your tool for financial growth,” Corcuera concludes. “But like any tool, it works best when used and understood correctly with clarity, commitment, and guidance.”

 

Learn more about VUL by visiting www.sunlife.co/VUL101 or talk to a Sun Life financial advisor today to find the VUL solution that matches your protection needs and long-term goals

Bright Balikbayan Spending: An OFW’s Finance Guide for the Homecoming Season

MANILA, PH – October 2025 – Homecoming season is the time that every Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) looks forward to. It’s a chance to be with family and a time to celebrate all the hard work. However, the pressure to spend generously, especially with pasalubong and gifts, can quickly derail financial plans.

 

While the homecoming is a time of celebration, it’s also a moment to reassess financial priorities. The joy of reunions and festivities can easily lead to overspending or neglecting long-term goals. That’s why it’s essential for OFWs to come home not just with gifts, but with a clear financial strategy. Here are some money management tips to ensure your homecoming is memorable and financially secure.

 

1. Set a “Homecoming Budget”.

The biggest mistake is operating without a plan. Before you purchase your plane ticket to go home, set a realistic budget for your entire stay. A well-planned budget acts as a financial compass, as it allows you to enjoy the season without the stress of overspending or dipping into funds meant for future goals.

 

List down everything you will need to spend on, including pasalubong, reunions dinners, family trips, aguinaldo for nephews and nieces, and even unexpected requests. More importantly, it should not eat into your regular allocations for savings, investments, and emergency funds.

 

When thinking of your pasalubong for your loved ones, it is important to remember that the value of a gift lies in the thought behind it, not the price tag. OFWs often feel pressured to bring home luxury items or expensive gadgets, but practical and more affordable gifts such as useful household items can be just as appreciated.

 

2. Manage expectations with love.

There is a common notion that OFWs have unlimited funds, and as such, relatives and friends tend to expect them to spend during gatherings or borrow from them for certain needs. This is why setting financial boundaries is important. It’s a delicate and sensitive conversation, but it’s also an act of responsible love.

 

Begin this conversation by communicating your goals. Explain that work is being done towards an important long-term goal, such as starting a family or buying a home. This helps relatives and friends understand that money is allocated for the family’s future, not just current wants.

 

It is also acceptable to politely decline loan requests, especially those that are not for critical emergencies. Should you opt to lend, anticipate the possibility that they may not pay you back and consider how it can affect your own expenses and future goals. 

 

3. Have a family financial planning session.

Use your time at home to have a discussion with your family on financial goals. Whether you are saving for a house, a child’s education, retirement, or your plan to come home for good, open communication is key.

 

To make the session more productive, consider inviting a Sun Life financial advisor to guide the conversation. Advisors can help assess your current financial standing, clarify insurance needs, and recommend suitable investment options. Their expertise can also help family members understand the importance of financial planning.

 

To keep the session engaging, especially for the younger family members, your advisor can incorporate Sun Life’s original board game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices. There is a version developed specifically for OFWs and their families to have a fun and educational way to learn about financial literacy and spark meaningful conversations.

 

As you enjoy your homecoming, don’t forget to mind your well-being too. Being an OFW, protecting all your hard work also means securing your health because this is directly tied to your and your family’s financial security. This is why Sun Life Philippines created Sun Life OFW Health Protect, the first insurance solution made of Overseas Filipinos, which offers comprehensive life and health protection tailored to your evolving needs. This solution provides coverage up to age 100, access to 24/7 teleconsultations with Filipino doctors, and flexible payment terms depending on the contract duration.

 

While you’re in the Philippines, this may be a good time to talk to a Sun Life advisor to ask about Sun Life OFW Health Protect, so you can give yourself the ultimate pasalubong: the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your future is protected against unexpected health crises.

 

Homecoming season is a beautiful time in every OFW’s journey. It is a time to celebrate, reconnect, and reflect. By budgeting wisely and planning with your family, you can turn your homecoming into a powerful step forward, not just for yourself but for the people you love. Your hard work deserves nothing less than a brighter, healthier future.

 

To know more about how Sun Life helps overseas Filipino workers come home for good, visit www.sunlife.co/HomeForGood.

Sun Life Philippines honored with Best Employee Engagement Program Award at the 2025 People Insight Awards

MANILA, PH – September 2025 – Sun Life Philippines was recently recognized with the Best Employee Engagement Program Award at the 2025 People Insight Awards.

 

Organized by TalentView, a leading employer branding firm, the People Insight Awards celebrates organizations that have successfully transformed their employer brand and strengthened employee engagement programs through purpose-driven leadership and cultural transformation.

 

Sun Life was honored for its commitment to building a workplace culture anchored in trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. Through initiatives like The Kaleidescope Hub, an employee-led Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) network, and the House Cup, a gamified approach to promoting overall well-being, Sun Life has empowered employees to share authentic stories of growth, inclusion, and personal fulfillment. It has showcased how the organization continues to nurture brilliance in every individual.

 

“Our people are the heart of Sun Life,” said Michelle Cordero-Garcia, Chief Human Resources Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “This recognition affirms the collective effort to create a workplace where everyone feels supported, valued, and inspired to thrive.”

 

This achievement comes on the heels of three other recognitions, including the 2025 HR Excellence Awards, where Sun Life received the Excellence in HR Innovation Award; the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, where it earned a Silver Stevie Award for its approach to HR management; and the 21^st Philippine Quill Awards, where it garnered a Merit Award for its employer branding campaign entitled Unleash Your Brilliance.

 

As Sun Life celebrates its 130^th anniversary, this award also reflects the company's strategic focus on fostering total wellness, promoting authenticity, and cultivating a culture of belonging. These efforts have led to tangible outcomes in employee retention, collaboration, and engagement, making Sun Life a community where people shine brighter together.

 

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

 

Pru Life UK launches PRUWealth 10

For affluent and high-net-worth Filipinos who want their money to work as hard as they do, Pru Life UK has unveiled PRUWealth 10, a life insurance plan that combines guaranteed payouts, long-term coverage and flexible access to your plan’s cash value in one seamless solution. 

Designed for affluent and high-net-worth clients aged 55 to 65 who are looking to fund their next travel or a business idea, PRUWealth 10 is available for a limited time only. 

The solution offers a guaranteed 5% net annual cash payout for 10 years, a 100% return of premium at the end of the policy term, and life insurance coverage equivalent to up to 110% of the single premium paid.

“PRUWealth 10 is designed for discerning individuals seeking the best of both worlds—guaranteed income and protection,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer of Pru Life UK. “Our high-net-worth clients value certainty and flexibility, and this product delivers exactly that.”

The plan requires a minimum single premium of Php 500,000 for clients aged 59 and below, and Php 3 million for those aged 60 to 70. It also provides access to cash values for loans, offering liquidity for emergencies or major expenses.

“With PRUWealth 10, Pru Life UK aims to meet the dual objectives of wealth accumulation and preservation for this specific segment of the country, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in securing financial futures,” Dee added. 

To learn more about PRUWealth 10, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph or follow Pru Life UK on Facebook. Please refer to the product terms and conditions or consult with a licensed Pru Life UK agent to ensure the product suits your needs. 

Security Bank Capital named PH Best Investment Bank for Financing by Euromoney

Manila, Philippines – Security Bank Capital Investment Corporation, the investment banking arm of Security Bank, has been recognized as the Philippines’ Best Investment Bank for Financing 2025 at Euromoney’s Asia-Pacific Awards for Excellence.

 

Euromoney cited Security Bank Capital’s pioneering role in sustainable and large-scale financings, including:

Sustainability leadership - Arranging the country’s first sustainability-linked bonds for Ayala Land, Inc. worth PHP14 billion, with innovative step-up features tied to performance targets; and the oversubscribed PHP10 billion ASEAN green bonds for Energy Development Corporation.

Transformational infrastructure - Leading the landmark PHP52 billion project finance facility for New NAIA Infra Corp., a new benchmark for PPP airport projects.

Capital market depth - Closing nine major bond issuances in 2024 totaling PHP139 billion, including SM Prime’s PHP25-billion issue and SMC Tollways’ PHP35-billion debut—the largest in the market.

Energy transition financing - Delivering PHP91.8 billion in project finance, such as the 450MW 3 Barracuda Solar Project, the largest solar financing in Philippine history.*

Equity capital markets - Raising PHP40.1 billion across four equity deals, highlighted by Citicore Renewable Energy’s IPO and the largest preferred share offerings from Petron and Ayala Corporation.

 

“Security Bank Capital has cemented its position as a cornerstone of investment banking in the Philippines,” Euromoney noted. The recognition adds to the firm’s recent distinctions, including Best Investment Bank in the Philippines (Alpha Southeast Asia 2025), Best ESG House in the Philippines (Euromoney 2024), and Best ECM House – Highly Commended (FinanceAsia).

 

“This recognition by Euromoney is a testament to our role as a trusted partner in enabling our clients’ growth and the country’s sustainable development,” said Virgilio Chua, President and CEO of Security Bank Capital. “From renewable energy to infrastructure and inclusive finance, we remain committed to delivering solutions that power progress for businesses, communities, and the nation.”

GCash and InvestaTrade Partner to Make Investing Easier for Every Filipino

GCash and InvestaTrade launch an upgraded GStocks platform for an easier investing experience within the GCash app.

Redefining how first-time investors enter the market, GCash upgrades its GStocks feature with new partner InvestaTrade, the stock trading arm of Investa, known for its beginner-friendly approach to financial education and stock market awareness.

While the level of Filipinos' interest and adoption toward investing has grown in recent years, participation in the stock market is still not widespread. According to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), the number of stock market accounts in the PSE reached 2.86 million, with 99% belonging to local investors as of June 2024. For perspective, this represents only about 4.1% of the country's roughly 70 million adult population.

The new partnership aims to change that. Powered by InvestaTrade, GStocks introduces a simplified investing experience within the GCash app, allowing Filipinos to easily register, fund their accounts, and start investing in local stocks—all in just a few minutes. 

The upgraded GStocks experience also aims to drive stronger literacy and ease stock selection with a more intuitive platform that features built-in educational content. The platform is also designed to be as user-friendly and accessible as possible, even to first-time investors.

“Financial tools only work if people actually feel ready to use them. This partnership is about meeting people where they are and giving them room to grow at their own pace,” general manager for wealth management at GCash, Arjun Varma, said.

“Our goal has always been to use technology to break down barriers to investing. With GStocks PH and InvestaTrade, we’re making it easier for more Filipinos to take that first step with tools designed to help jumpstart their financial journey,” he added.

The partnership with InvestaTrade brings additional credibility and community-based learning to the platform. Since 2015, Investa has built a reputation for offering accessible tools, market insights, and educational content aimed at helping everyday Filipinos make sense of the stock market.

“We’ve always believed that investing should be made accessible for every Filipino. This has been our mission since day one. This collaboration allows us to take what we’ve built at Investa—tools, education, and a supportive community—and make it available to a wider audience through GCash,” Investa CEO and co-founder JC Bisnar said.

“This collaboration also highlights the importance of technology in making investing more accessible. By leveraging the seamless experience and advanced features of the InvestaTrade platform, in synergy with GCash, we aim to simplify the learning curve and equip first-time and experienced users alike with reliable tools,” said Investa CTO and co-founder Airwyn Tin. 

It only takes minutes to start investing with GStocks. Fully verified GCash users with an updated KYC in the last 3 years just need to register in-app to get approved instantly.

The new GStocks PH powered by InvestaTrade officially launches September 15 as part of GCash’s broader mission to make investing a stronger habit and a part of everyday life for all Filipinos. 

Through this, GCash is helping turn what was once an intimidating topic into a practical step toward financial growth, empowering more Filipinos to build a stronger, more secure future.

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

The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. You should always consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. All investments carry inherent risks, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any reliance you place on the information provided is strictly at your own risk.

DHSUD, SHDA Lead Call to Recalibrate Housing Strategies at the 33rd National Developers Convention

September 8, 2025, PHILIPPINES – As the Philippines marks National Shelter Month this October, housing developers, policymakers, and industry leaders are set to gather on October 9–10, 2025, at the Rizal Ballroom, Makati Shangri-La, Manila, Makati City, Metro Manila for the 33rd National Developers Convention to recalibrate strategies for delivering affordable, inclusive, and sustainable homes for Filipino families.

Organized by the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association, Inc. (SHDA) in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the event carries the theme ‘ReCalibrate: Upgrading Housing Strategies for a Better Tomorrow’ The event will spotlight urgent housing challenges and sector commitments, including SHDA’s pledge to deliver part of the 250,000 housing units committed by private developers in support of the government’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH). This contribution forms part of the administration’s target of building one million housing units annually.

“By working hand in hand with DHSUD, we aim to align the industry’s efforts with the government’s housing priorities, especially in expanding affordable housing and building sustainable communities,” said SHDA National Chairman, Ar. Leonardo Dayao Jr. “This convention is not only a celebration of National Shelter Month but also a call to action for all stakeholders to shape a better housing future for Filipinos.”

The gathering is expected to draw around 200 stakeholders, including top developers, policymakers, investors, and allied partners. Keynote speeches and panel discussions will cover innovative financing models, resilient and sustainable housing design, digital transformation in real estate, and regulatory reforms to accelerate the 4PH rollout.

“This convention is a testament to the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors,” said SHDA National President, Engr. Francis Richmond Villegas. “Our shared goal is not just to build houses, but to build communities that uplift the lives of Filipino families.”

Through the National Developers Convention, SHDA reaffirms its role as the unified voice of the housing industry, bridging public and private sector efforts for inclusive growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.

Allianz PNB Life Empowers Future Leaders Through Financial Education and Mentorship

Allianz PNB Life continues to strengthen its commitment to youth empowerment through the global #YouthCan! Program, in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas.

Through workplace visits, career coaching, and financial literacy sessions, Allianz mentors help young people gain practical experience, develop essential life skills, and prepare for future careers. These engagements aim to instill confidence and a sense of independence among the youth—qualities that are vital as they take steps toward building their future.

For Allianz, this initiative goes beyond corporate social responsibility. It reflects the company’s core belief that financial security and personal growth go hand-in-hand. By sharing knowledge on financial concepts, savings, debt management, and the value of protection through insurance, Allianz is equipping young people with tools they can carry throughout life.

“As a company, we are deeply invested in creating a positive impact on society. Programs like #YouthCan! allow us to extend our mission of securing people’s lives, not only through our products, but by actively preparing the next generation for success,” said Aileen Dionisio, Head of Sustainability of Allianz PNB Life.

By combining financial education with career development, Allianz PNB Life reaffirms its role as a trusted partner in shaping a confident tomorrow for the youth and the communities it serves.

Sun Life Bags Two Excellence, One Merit Award at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards

MANILA, PH – September 2025 – Sun Life, a leading financial services organization, has been honored with multiple awards at the prestigious 21st Philippine Quill Awards, celebrating excellence in business communication. The recognition comes as Sun Life commemorates its 130th anniversary, underscoring the company's commitment to impactful communication and financial literacy.

 

Sun Life received the coveted Excellence Award for two groundbreaking projects: Play for Life, a gamified financial literacy campaign that successfully engaged audiences nationwide, and Sun Talks: Digital Media Edition, a dynamic workshop empowering digital media professionals to champion financial literacy. These initiatives not only fostered greater awareness but also inspired participants to actively support the advocacy of financial wellness.

 

Additionally, the company earned the Merit Award for Unleash Your Brilliance, an employee branding campaign that showcased Sun Life’s vibrant culture while contributing directly to recruitment success. The campaign highlighted the importance of empowering employees and celebrated their individual contributions to the company’s growth.

 

“These awards are a testament to Sun Life's dedication to creating meaningful impact through effective communication," said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer at Sun Life Philippines. "As we celebrate our 130th anniversary, we're eager to create more programs that will ultimately help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”

 

The Philippine Quill Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, is one of the country's most prestigious award-giving bodies in the field of business communication.

Sun Life Survey: Filipinos Show Rising Financial Confidence, but Long-Term Challenges Persist

MANILA, PH – August 2025 – Sun Life Asia’s latest Financial Resilience Index reveals a complex yet hopeful picture of Filipino financial behavior, showing increased short-term confidence but persistent challenges in long-term planning and resilience.  

 

The study, conducted across six Asian markets including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam, surveyed 1,000 Filipino respondents between April and May 2025.

 

Financial Confidence on the Rise but Long-Term Struggles Persist

 

The study found that 66% of Filipinos now feel financially secure, up from 45% in the previous wave. Confidence in managing monthly finances also rose from 57% to 69%, suggesting improved short-term financial resilience.

 

However, long-term financial confidence dipped, with only 64% feeling capable of meeting future goals, down from 72%. One in three Filipinos say that, in case of income loss or illness, they would not be able to sustain themselves for more than three months without external support. Younger respondents based in rural areas are especially vulnerable, with limited emergency savings and lower access to financial tools.

 

Immediate Needs Take Priority when Inflation Hits Hard

 

Filipinos are prioritizing day-to-day budgeting (61%) and building emergency funds (45%), while long-term goals like retirement and home ownership have become less urgent. This shift underscores the impact of inflation and cost-of-living concerns on financial planning.

 

Nearly all respondents reported that inflation has affected their ability to cover monthly expenses. The biggest cost increases were seen in food, energy, health, and transportation. In response, many are cutting non-essential spending and educating themselves about personal finance.

 

Financial Literacy Shows Promise as Sources of Advice Evolve

 

While banks and family remain the top sources of financial guidance, social media and AI tools are gaining popularity, especially among younger and urban consumers. Trust in banks remains high but has slightly declined, and cost remains a barrier to seeking professional advice.

 

Despite this, most Filipinos rate their financial literacy as “fair” or better, and survey results show a strong understanding of basic financial concepts. It also reveals that literacy improves with age and is higher among urban residents, though gaps remain in rural areas. Additionally, 67% of respondents save or invest at least 10% of their income, and 78% review their investments monthly or more often. These behaviors indicate a growing commitment to financial discipline.

 

“These findings highlight both the resilience and the vulnerability of Filipino households,” said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “We are encouraged by the growing financial confidence and commitment to saving, but it’s clear that more support is needed to help families plan for the long term. Sun Life remains committed to empowering Filipinos through financial education, innovative products, and community engagement.”

 

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

 

View the Philippines findings of the Sun Life Asia Financial Resilience Index here: www.sunlife.co/financialresiliencereport-2025  

 

Alsons Dev Earns Top Honors at the BPI Partners Appreciation Night

Manila, Philippines, 2024 April –Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) solidifies its standing as an award-winning real estate developer in Davao City by garnering accolades in title delivery and production during the recent Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Partners Appreciation Night. The event, which took place on March 14th at Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago, recognizes BPI's top performing business partners in various categories.

While Alsons Dev has been commended at the BPI Partners Appreciation Night for the past five years, this year holds particular significance as it clinched the top honors, being the Top 1 Local Developer in Title Delivery Performance. This award underscores the company’s timely turnover of property titles to homeowners. Additionally, Alsons Dev was adjudged the Top 5 Local Developer in Production based on the number of BPI housing loans booked by the company’s clients. The developer's capacity for both speed and volume are a testament of its efficiency and dedication to top-notch customer service. It also underscores that Alsons Dev properties are a trusted choice for numerous homebuyers.

Padayon! The Alsons Dev team, headed by Legal Management Head Gloria P. Concepcion (third from right), receives the awards for the fifth consecutive year. 

###

BPI Debit Cardholders can get added Protection with Personal Cyber Insurance

In a strategic move aimed at fortifying security and instilling peace of mind among its clients, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) proudly pioneers Personal Cyber Insurance exclusively tailored for BPI Debit Cardholders. This innovative insurance coverage serves as a robust defense mechanism, providing an additional layer of protection for daily transactions and safeguarding users against potential risks in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Jenny Lacerna, Product & Sales Head for Unsecured Lending and Cards, emphasizes, “Ensuring the peace of mind of our valued BPI Debit Cardholders is our utmost priority with the introduction of Personal Cyber Insurance. This innovative offering provides enhanced security and protection for their daily transactions, underscoring our commitment to their financial well-being.”

Designed to provide assurance, BPI MS Personal Cyber Insurance empowers Debit Cardholders with comprehensive protection. This exclusive offering extends to all BPI debit customers. The coverage includes E-commerce Purchase Protection, which reimburses customers for online purchases using their BPI Debit Mastercard® when items are accidentally damaged or are undelivered by a fraudulent seller. It also covers Lost Card Protection which covers customers on unauthorized/fraudulent transactions on the card that happened up to 12 hours prior to reporting the incident to BPI. Moreover, it also provides protection from Third-Party Unauthorized Transfers which covers unauthorized fund transfers carried out by an external party using their BPI Debit Mastercard® account. 

Starting at an affordable PHP 700 annually, BPI Debit Cardholders can select from a range of coverage options tailored to their unique needs. To further enhance convenience, clients are offered the choice of opting for recurring payments, facilitating seamless annual renewals.

The launch of BPI's Personal Cyber Insurance signifies the bank's unwavering commitment to ensuring the financial security and overall well-being of its clients amid the dynamic landscape of digital transactions. Building upon the robust security features already embedded within the BPI Debit card, this innovative insurance offering serves to fortify and enhance the existing safeguards, providing an extra layer of protection against evolving cyber threats.

For detailed information on BPI's Personal Cyber Insurance and to explore coverage options, you can visit l.bpi.com.ph/DebitCyberInsurance. You may also reach out to the 24-hour BPI Contact Center at (+632) 889-10000 or send us a message at https://www.bpi.com.ph/contactus.

Php 221.6 Wind Power Projects Endorsed for Green Lane, Slated for Operation in Negros and Iloilo

MAKATI CITY – Two wind power projects will soon operate in Western Visayas, as the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI), through its One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI), granted green lane certificates to the partnership of the Triconti Windkraft and Sea Wind Holdings AG on January 12, 2024.

Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo handed the Green Lane Certificate of Endorsement to the officials of the Triconti Windkraft Group (TWG) during a brief awarding ceremony at the BOI Main Office.

Guimaras Strait Wind Power Project (under Triconti Southwind Corporation) and Guimaras Strait II Wind Power Project under (Jet Stream Windkraft Corporation) were among the first awarded Offshore Wind Energy Service Contracts by the Department of Energy. With a combined initial investment cost of Php 221.6 billion, the two projects will operate offshore Negros Occidental and Iloilo Province and have a total target capacity of 1.2 GW. The projects are being undertaken in partnership with Sea Wind Holdings AG (Seawind), a Liechtenstein based developer. Together, the Triconti-Seawind partnership is currently developing a total of over 1.65 GW of offshore wind capacity in Luzon and the Visayas.

Significantly, the projects will engender huge economic impacts for Filipinos, projected to generate 3,600 direct and indirect jobs. Aside from the demand for local labor, the project will boost the economic activity in Negros and Iloilo because of the possible development of eco-tourism.

TWG President and CEO Lilibeth Rosenberger was joined by Director and Head of Offshore Projects Bjorn Rosenberger, and Director of Regulatory and Markets, Theo Sunico. The officials recognized the young and talented demographics of the Philippines which they are eager to develop and utilize.

The Philippines features an exceptionally high potential for wind energy generation particularly because of the country’s topography. There are already a number of onshore wind projects in the country but TWG was among the first to be awarded contracts to develop such projects.

The company has been helpful to the BOI in identifying industry gaps as well as determining strategies for the promotion and development of the offshore wind industry in the country. As the single point of entry for strategic investments and coordinating body for Green Lanes, OSACSI will play a pivotal role in addressing issues and concerns in the Renewable Energy industry. This streamlined approach ensures the swift materialization of energy investments in the country.

Keep the FLAMES Burning this Valentine’s Day and Protect Yourself from Scammers

Remember the FLAMES—Friends, Lovers, Anger, Marriage, Engagement (Enemy for some), Soulmates—game in the 90’s? It was a popular pen and paper pastime among young teens. They would name their ‘crush’ and be able to ‘predict’ their future by playing with the letters that make up the name.

Fast forward to this day and age, “FLAMES” can guide adults and teens alike. But this time on a more serious note.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) presents a ‘FLAMES’ way—of protecting against scammers. 

“No one can really predict when and how a scammer attacks. We must always be careful not to fall for their schemes,” said BPI Enterprise Information Security Officer and Data Protection Officer Jonathan John B. Paz.

BPI’s ‘FLAMES’ reminder consists of simple cybersecurity tips that account holders can do to keep their accounts safe and secure especially this Valentine’s Day:

• F-riends? Family? It is better to keep confidential details like your PINs and passwords a secret (even) from them.

• L-ove to share your latest updates online? This is okay but be sure to set boundaries. Avoid oversharing, especially on social media, for your and your loved ones’ safety. 

• A-nger, excitement, and curiosity are some of the most common emotional trigger's scammers latch on to for their social engineering scams. Too much of these feelings can also be used as bait to manipulate you. 

• M-arriage between online and offline cybersecurity practices is a good habit to develop. It is not enough to be careful with your actions online only but not offline, and vice-versa.

• E-ngage only with trusted accounts. When planning to use e-commerce, do background checks first and read reviews about the sellers or product. Legitimate Facebook pages have the blue verified badges on them.

• S-oulmate? One-True Pair. Just like them, take care of your One-Time PINs (OTPs) as well by never sharing them with anyone.