A New Era of Wellness: SKG Makes its Official Philippine Debut

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As the pace of life grows ever faster, SKG officially enters the Philippine market with a mission to make modern self-care accessible to all. As a recognized global leader in wellness technology with a presence in over 50 countries and millions of users worldwide, the brand is redefining how people rest, recover, and recharge in their daily lives.

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A global leader in smart wellness technology, SKG brings its innovative lineup of health solutions to empower Filipinos to live well, every day

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Its portfolio spans smart wellness solutions, from portable massagers to advanced relaxation devices, featuring advanced engineering, ergonomic design, and user-centered innovation to enhance comfort, performance, and daily well-being.

To bring this vision to Filipinos, SKG Philippines is introducing a full lineup of smart wellness solutions tailored to modern lifestyles.

The Flagship of Wellness: G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager

Leading SKG’s product lineup is the G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat, the brand’s flagship innovation. It is the only foldable neck massager on the market featuring a premium leather finish and full smart customization.

Designed for comprehensive care, the G7 Pro-Fold uses dual-mode TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) and Vibration Powered Massage Technology to strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and deliver targeted nerve relaxation. For deep relief, its advanced heat therapy incorporates a 6000Hz pulse matrix, graphene technology, and 630nm red light to penetrate muscles up to 10mm. The result is a comfortable, effective massage that not only relieves discomfort but also helps keep the neck strong and revitalized.

Beyond its advanced technology, the G7 Pro-Fold’s award-winning foldable design supports mobility and convenience, making it an ideal companion for long-haul travel and demanding workdays.

The SKG G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat is available at P10,999 SRP at SKG physical stores nationwide as well as SKG’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop

Budget-Friendly Power: The 4356E Neck Massager

SKG ensures that advanced self-care is accessible with the 4356E Neck Massager, an ideal choice for students and budget-conscious users. This affordable option combines TENS and EMS (Electronic Muscle Stimulation) to provide targeted relief and strengthen neck muscles.

TENS soothes nerves and eases pain with gentle pulses, while EMS stimulates muscles to improve tone and support recovery. Together, they provide a comfortable, effective way to relax, recover, and keep muscles strong.

The 4356E Neck Massager also features a 42°C hot compress, three massage modes, and 15 intensity levels, along with a reliable battery and convenient voice prompt button for everyday usability. It retails for only P2,999 SRP via SKG’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Premium Rest on the Go: The ES500 Eye Massager

The ES500 Eye Massager is the perfect introduction to premium eye care, designed specifically for executives, travelers, and those seeking a luxurious yet affordable wellness experience. Combining built-in heating pads, soft PU leather, and Bluetooth connectivity, it delivers comfort and functionality at an exceptional value.

The device offers a lightweight, comfortable fit that won’t weigh down the head, while its foldable design and adjustable stretch straps make it easy to pack and suitable for a range of head sizes.

It features an ultra-low noise operation, utilizing ceramic air pumps to keep sound levels minimal 45dB allowing relaxation without disturbing the surroundings.

With a 1200mAh battery providing up to 60 minutes of uninterrupted use, the ES500 Eye Massager’s five-mode hot compress function (38–45°C) helps relieve eye fatigue, reduce puffiness, and refresh tired eyes, making it perfect for long flights, late nights, or busy workdays.

Priced at P6,499 SRP, the ES500 Eye Massager is now available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Shop in-store and online

From flagship to budget-friendly and travel-ready solutions, SKG offers wellness for every lifestyle. To make it even more exciting, the first 300 fans who shop at participating physical stores from November 15-23 will get a FREE realme T200 Lite Earbuds worth P1,399.

Online shoppers can also score amazing deals on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop during the same promo period. Redeem platform vouchers for extra savings and explore more personal care devices at discounted prices.

To learn more, visit SKG Philippines on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/skgph.official, on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/skg_philippines, and on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@skg_philippines.

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About SKG

SKG is a global leader redefining wellness solutions, dedicated to helping people live healthier, longer, and better lives through intelligent, science-backed wellness technology. With a presence in over 50 countries and millions of users worldwide, SKG continues to lead the global smart massager industry through innovation, professional performance, and user-first design.

Healthy Teams, Stronger Communities: Cebuana Lhuillier’s Bold Commitment to Employee Wellness

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Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s leading microfinance services provider, believes that a thriving workforce is key to serving millions of Filipinos effectively. Through initiatives that prioritize wellness, the company empowers employees to balance work, health, and personal life—creating a resilient and motivated workforce.

“Wellness is not a benefit—it’s a responsibility. Healthy, supported employees deliver better service, creativity, and impact every day,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO. “By taking care of our people, we ensure they are energized and ready to serve our communities, extending the same care we give internally to every Filipino who walks into our financial service centers.”

Cebuana Lhuillier’s approach to wellness is holistic, addressing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through a wellness app, employees can track fitness progress, join online workouts, and build healthy habits through wellness challenges. They also have access to confidential counseling sessions and 24/7 support, ensuring consistent care for their mental and emotional health.

The company also promotes work-life balance through flexible work schedules and Focus Fridays, a work-from-home arrangement every Friday that allows employees to recharge and focus on deep work. Comprehensive HMO coverage, extended to family members, provides peace of mind and helps staff stay focused and productive knowing their loved ones are protected.

In line with World Mental Health Day, Cebuana Lhuillier launched a series of activities that promoted mental wellness across the organization. These included interactive games designed to empower minds and boost morale, as well as online health and wellness seminars such as Cultivating Mental Health in the Workplace and Understanding Mental Health, which encouraged open dialogue and mindfulness in everyday life.

Employees who completed the Step-Up Challenge through the wellness app were also recognized for their dedication to personal growth and physical fitness—reflecting the company’s belief that mental and physical health go hand in hand.

“We don’t just invest in our employees’ careers—we invest in their lives,” said Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Group Head for Corporate Services. “When our people thrive personally, their work—and the communities we serve—benefit. Our wellness programs ensure that employees feel supported, motivated, and equipped to deliver impactful service across our branches nationwide.”

Through these initiatives, Cebuana Lhuillier reinforces that caring for employees is both compassionate and strategic. By creating a culture where people feel supported and valued, the company continues to strengthen engagement, productivity, and service excellence for Filipinos across the country.

Evolving View on Longevity: For Filipinos, Quality of Life Outweighs Lifespan - Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025

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●        Survey of 1,000 consumers in the Philippines shows Filipinos value independence, quality of life, and purpose over longer life spans.

●        Despite rising health concerns, especially among those aged 25-34, most Filipinos surveyed do not take sufficient preventive health actions.

●        Amid widening retirement savings gap, Filipinos see the link between finances and health but remain underprepared for retirement.

●        Many Filipinos place excessive reliance on cash as a placeholder investment, increasing the risk that they might outlive their savings in the face of potential longer life expectancy.

A shift in how Filipinos view longevity is emerging, as they prioritize quality of life more than simply living longer as they age, according to the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025: "Embracing Longevity: Enjoying a Better Life." The comprehensive study, which surveyed 1,000 Filipinos, revealed that only 13% of respondents chose living a longer life as their top wish when they consider their older years, while 26% prioritize financial independence and 17% value staying physically, mentally, and socially active.

The Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025, which ran in January and February, explored attitudes around how the region views longevity, as global life expectancies continue to rise.

Among those who value quality of life over lifespan, the respondents’ desired lifespan averages 69 years—below the national life expectancy, which is projected to reach 73.2 by 2050—suggests a preference for a life of purpose, vigor, and independence over sheer longevity.

“Filipinos are redefining what it means to live a good life,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “They are no longer focused solely on longevity. Instead, they want to live better—with freedom, dignity, and the ability to enjoy life on their own terms. This shift challenges us to rethink how we support them—not just with insurance, but with holistic solutions that enhance their quality of life.”

Health concerns continue to rise, especially among younger Filipinos

The survey also revealed that health issues are a growing concern, particularly among Filipinos aged 25-34. Nearly 44% of respondents reported experiencing physical or mental health problems that affect their daily lives. Despite this, most Filipinos surveyed are not taking enough preventive action.

On average, more than half of the survey respondents engage in only 5 out of 17 recommended preventive health measures that can support a longer, healthier life. Critical indicators of long-term health—such as muscle mass and oxygen uptake—are monitored by just 16% of participants. These metrics are scientifically linked to longevity and overall vitality yet remain largely overlooked.

Despite this, 74% believe their current health habits are sufficient to protect their health as they age.

“There is a clear gap between awareness and action. Filipinos understand the importance of health, but many are not taking the necessary steps to protect it,” added Hora. “This disconnect could lead to long-term vulnerabilities, which will be challenging to address later in life. To bridge this gap, we encourage Filipinos to take more proactive steps, such as scheduling regular check-ups, adopting healthier lifestyle habits, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, to help safeguard their overall health and well-being.”

Filipinos face a retirement savings gap

The survey also highlighted the strong relationship between financial stability and health outcomes. A significant 80% of respondents believe that their financial well-being directly affects how long they can remain physically healthy. Similarly, 76% say it impacts their mental health and emotional resilience.

 However, despite this awareness, the average retirement savings among Filipinos is only PHP 630,000—16% of the PHP 3.85 million they estimate they will need to retire comfortably.

“Filipinos recognize that wealth and health are deeply connected,” said Aira Gaspar, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Investments Philippines. “However, their current savings and investment behaviors do not necessarily reflect this awareness. The gap between what they have saved and what they will need could compromise their ability to live independently and with dignity in later years.”

Retirement planning: A shift in priorities, but gaps remain

When it comes to preparing for retirement, cash remains king for many Filipinos. The survey found that 66% view keeping their money in cash or fixed deposits as one of their top 2 priorities, while 51% express they want to invest in property. However, more than half (54%) also expressed a desire for steady income streams during retirement—something that cash-heavy portfolios may not be able to provide, especially in the face of inflation and rising healthcare costs.

“We are seeing a shift in how Filipinos think about retirement,” Gaspar noted. “While they are starting to realize that relying solely on property or savings may not be enough, many still hold excessive cash, which raises their longevity risk or the risk that they might outlive their savings, particularly in the face of potential longer life expectancy.

Gaspar added, “At Manulife Investments, we empower Filipinos to create more holistic wealth portfolios by giving them diverse and affordable investment choices, which they can use as building blocks to mobilize their savings, receive recurring income streams and achieve financial independence throughout their lifetime. Today, Filipinos can choose from our suite of 22 unit investment trust funds (UITFs), including six income-paying UITFs, spanning multi-asset, fixed income, equity and real estate investment trusts (REITs) asset classes that can be accessed for as little as Php1,000.”

The value of professional financial advice is also evident in the data: 70% of those who work with financial planners believe they will have enough funds for retirement, compared to only 38% of those without such guidance.

Supporting Filipinos’ fresh definition of Longevity

As Philippine life expectancy continues to increase in the coming years, the need for comprehensive health and wealth planning becomes critical.

"The message from Filipinos is clear—they want to age with dignity, maintain their independence, and have the financial freedom to do what matters to them," Hora concluded. "At Manulife, we are committed to evolving our products and services to support this vision. That means offering solutions that go beyond medical and critical illness coverage to address health protection needs and offering investment options that can provide reliable income streams for a better, more fulfilling life.”

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Resources:

●     Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025 - https://www.manulife.com.ph/about-us/manulife-studies/asia-care-survey/2025/top-wish-of-filipinos-in-golden-years.html

●     National life expectancy - https://population.un.org/wpp/

Century Tuna welcomes back Mt. Everest summiteer Jeno Panganiban

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Jeno Panganiban brandishes the Philippine flag at Mera Peak in Nepal, which offers a view of Mount Everest.

Century Tuna officially celebrates the return of mountaineer and Superbod athlete Jeno Panganiban to the Philippines after successfully reaching the top of Mount Everest, the world’s highest summit.

Through a couple of months of relentlessly climbing the unforgiving terrain and enduring the frigid climate of Mount Everest, Jeno has etched his name in Philippine history as the youngest male Filipino who has reached its summit in almost two decades, inspiring a new generation of Filipinos to embrace the challenge of facing their own summit with strength and proper nutrition.

Century Tuna honors his monumental achievement and welcomes Jeno home, shining a spotlight on his triumphant ascent. He embodies strength, endurance, and resilience in his pursuit to reach the summit of the world.

Youngest male Filipino Mount Everest summiteer, Jeno Panganiban, shares stories about his journey climbing the highest mountain in the world.

“When we were approaching the summit, I approached it with pride because by that time, we knew that the whole nation was watching us. And I felt emotional because I was able to carry the Philippine flag to the top of the world,” Jeno shared as he recounted the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Jeno’s summit to the world’s peak is a testament to years of hard work and dedication to fueling his passion for mountaineering and optimizing his lifestyle. He transitioned from a former software engineer, working a 9-to-5 job, to owning a distribution business, supplying healthy produce to restaurants across Metro Manila, which has given him the flexibility to control his own time.

When he set his sights to finally achieving his long-time dream of conquering Mount Everest, Jeno knew that it required singular focus and relentless drive. It wasn’t only about rallying together all his previous mountaineering experiences. It was also about actively choosing to go through extreme preparation and intentionally nourishing his body with the right nutrition that can push him to become one of the Philippines’ national prides.

From high altitude sickness, hazardous weather, to the looming threat of avalanches, Jeno persisted through the life-threatening challenges. He endured temperatures reaching below freezing, extreme sun exposure burning, and loss of oxygen as he was reaching the summit while pushing through exhaustion.

Jeno Panganiban pushes through climbing the Khumbu Icefall, a treacherous shifting terrain of ice and snow near the Mount Everest Base Camp.

“You have to be comfortable in being uncomfortable,” says Jeno. “So every day, we made sure that our bodies were in the right condition. I made sure my body and mind were ready for the push.”

With Century Tuna as his partner, Jeno was able to bring his A game to his climb. His remarkable resilience to climb to an elevation of 8,849 meters is nourished by his favorite Century Tuna meal, the classic combination of Century Tuna Hot and Spicy with saltine crackers, a comfort food that’s easy to prepare but packed with protein to keep him energized throughout his arduous training and long ascent.

Jeno Panganiban holds up the Century Tuna flag at the summit of Mount Everest (left) and at the Mount Everest Base Camp (right).

His journey perfectly embodies Century Tuna’s “Fit for Any Role” campaign, highlighting the brand’s celebration of the multi-faceted image of fitness and its part in helping individuals face any role.

Century Pacific Food, Inc. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Mr. Greg Banzon speaks about Century Tuna’s partnership with Jeno Panganiban.

“Century Tuna is proud and honored to support Jeno’s journey because he is a living testament that anyone can face their own summit. He has shown us that through properly nourishing the body and building up strength, everyone can go after their dreams — a pursuit that Century Tuna has always championed. He is an inspiration, not just to his fellow athletes, but to all of us who take on life’s challenges every day,” said Century Pacific Food, Inc. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Greg Banzon.

Century Tuna challenges every Filipino to define their own summit. Whether they want to achieve a fitness milestone, a personal goal, or a monumental accomplishment, being fit with Century Tuna means being ready to take on the challenge.

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or follow Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Home Credit Philippines promotes a healthier lifestyle with Takbo #ParaSaLife

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Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, is taking a significant stride toward promoting wellness and community engagement with its first-ever fun run, Takbo #ParaSaLife. Set to happen on Feb 16 at Parqal in Aseana City, this event invites Filipinos to kickstart the year on a healthy and active note.

HCPH champions overall wellness with the upcoming Takbo #ParaSaLife fun run happening on Feb 16. HCPH hosts regular community runs in Bonifacio Global City, to gear up for this event, encouraging everyone to join in the fun and fitness.

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Country’s leading consumer finance company encourages Filipinos

to start the year with good health and wellness to live more rewarding lives

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Organized in partnership with WeKenRun, a local running group established by well-known marathon coach Ken Mendiola, Takbo #ParaSaLife caters to all levels of runners with race categories of 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K.

With this initiative, HCPH strengthens its commitment to empowering Filipinos to live more rewarding lives. Beyond offering financial solutions, the company seeks to promote holistic well-being—encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health—by creating opportunities for communities to come together and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

“Home Credit is committed to empowering Filipinos to live the life they deserve, and this extends beyond financial well-being. Beyond providing financial services, with this run we are encouraging Filipinos to improve their overall well-being, enabling them to do more #ParaSaLife,” Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH said.

Takbo #ParaSaLife is open to all participants, from HCPH employees, family, friends, and customers to fitness enthusiasts and those beginning their wellness journey. Registration fees vary by race distance: PhP500 for the 1K, PhP900 for the 3K, PhP1,000 for the 5K, and PhP1,200 for the 10K. Each category includes exciting perks such as an event shirt, finisher’s medal, loot bag, and bib holder, depending on the selected distance.

“This initiative is about more than just running. It is about building a community that supports one another in achieving better health and wellness. We hope this event will inspire individuals to build lasting, healthy habits that empower them to achieve more life goals,” Paul added.

Freebies await all participants, and podium finishers in the 10K, 5K, and 3K race categories can look forward to exciting cash prizes. Winners in the 10K category will each receive PhP10,000, with PhP8,000 awarded to second place and PhP6,000 to third. In the 5K category, the first-place winners will take home PhP6,000, followed by PhP3,000 for second place and PhP2,000 for third. For the 3K category, the champion will earn PhP3,000, while second and third place will receive PhP1,500 and PhP1,000, respectively.

Events like the Takbo #ParaSaLife are more crucial than ever, especially in light of recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO) that highlighted the global rise in physical inactivity, a major risk factor for chronic diseases. The Philippines is among the countries with the highest rates, with 39.7 percent of the population affected by the lack of physical activity.

Sign up for Takbo #ParaSaLife today and take a step toward a healthier, more rewarding life! Visit this link to register and learn more about this exciting event.

To know more about the latest updates from HCPH, check out its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

New Year, New Bod: Here are 5 tips on achieving your fitness journey this 2025 with Century Tuna

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The New Year is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and recharge your health goals. As the ultimate partner for a healthy lifestyle, Century Tuna is here to help you jumpstart your 2025 fitness journey with simple yet effective tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your progress, Century Tuna has your back every step of the way.

Here are five practical fitness tips from Mauro Lumba, the Century Tuna Superbod 2014 champion and personal fitness coach to Century Tuna brand ambassadors Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez, to guide you to the best you:

Start Small, Stay Consistent

Start your fitness journey with small, consistent steps. Photo by Freepik

Big goals are achieved through small, consistent steps. Begin with manageable changes, like adding a 15-minute walk to your daily routine or swapping unhealthy snacks for nourishing options like Century Tuna Flakes in Oil. These small efforts compound into significant results over time.

Plan Balanced, Nutritious Meals

Fuel your fitness journey with Century Tuna and Grilled Sweet Potato 

Your fitness goals are fueled by what’s your plate. Incorporate protein-rich foods like Century Tuna into your meals to support muscle recovery and boost energy. With a variety of flavors, including Herbs and Paella, Century Tuna makes eating healthy both easy and delicious.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Make sure to be hydrated during your workout. Photo by Freepik

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health and fitness. Carry a water bottle wherever you go and stay hydrated to maintain energy levels, aid digestion, and improve your workout performance.

Move More, Every Day

Just like Century Tuna brand ambassadors Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach, you can be consistent in your fitness journey.

You don’t need a gym to stay active. Find an activity you love—dancing, biking, or yoga—and make it part of your routine. Take inspiration from Century Tuna ambassadors Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach, who began their fitness journeys 10 months ago and have been consistently incorporating exercise into their busy lifestyles ever since.

Keep Your Goals Realistic and Track Progress

Set realistic workout plans using a journal or a fitness app. Photo by Freepik

Set realistic goals and celebrate your milestones along the way. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Keep a journal or use a fitness app to track your achievements and keep yourself motivated.

#TheBestYouStartsNow, and the New Year is the best time to take that first step on your #JourneytoSuperbod. With Century Tuna by your side, becoming the best you has never been more attainable.

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or follow Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Manulife Survey Shows Filipino Consumers See Managing Healthcare Costs as Critical for Financial Well-Being in Later Life

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A healthy lifestyle and good physical well-being are the essential elements for positive financial and mental well-being among consumers in the Philippines as they plan for longer lifespans, and lengthier and more comfortable retirements, according to new research by Manulife. Yet financial confidence among Filipinos is low amid concerns about inflation, particularly rising healthcare costs.

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• Survey of 1,050 consumers in the Philippines focuses on health and long-term savings for longer life spans

• Rising healthcare costs is the number one concern, while medical inflation perceptions are too high 

• Most people in the Philippines do not rely on their children to provide for them in old age

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Manulife’s new Asia Care Survey 2024 drew on responses from 1,050 consumers in the Philippines. It launched Manulife’s MyFuture Readiness Index, which measures how consumers view their current and future physical, mental, and financial well-being. On a scale of 1 to 100, the index shows their desired readiness level to be 91, which is above the regional average, but the expected level to be 79, suggesting a lack of confidence about the future.

According to the Filipinos surveyed, the top five challenges impacting confidence in their future well-being are: rising healthcare costs (82%), inflation/rising costs of living (81%), economic slowdown/recession (78%), increasing interest rates (78%) and health trending down (73%). 

To help save and prepare for their envisioned future, including for greater longevity, retirement and unexpected medical needs, the Filipinos surveyed highlighted having a passive income after retirement (43%), having sufficient savings for a rainy day (39%), financial freedom in retirement (32%) and having enough savings for healthcare needs (31%) as their main financial goals.

“The survey reveals a lot of anxiety around economic volatility, healthcare-related expenses and uncertainty, which dampens the optimism of many Filipinos in achieving high-quality well-being in the future,” said Rahul Hora, President and CEO, Manulife Philippines. “But there are ways to address these concerns so they are future-proofed. Significant of these is the value of financial advice and guidance that can help them assess and bring their goals closer to fruition, mitigate risks, and find the right products that provide stronger health and life protection, as well as investment and retirement solutions.” 

Healthcare costs perceived to be too expensive

In the survey, 82% cited rising healthcare costs as a top threat– a percentage that rises to 86% among 50 to 60-year-olds. Their concerns are understandable given that 44.7% of health expenses in the Philippines are out-of-pocket, in total reaching US$9 billion in 2022. It is an amount that Manulife expects to reach US$13 billion by 2028 and account for 38% of their overall medical expenses. 

“We see in the Philippines a realization of longer life expectancy and people rightly want to enjoy good health for a longer time. Healthcare costs trump inflation as their main concern for the future, with women being in general more concerned than men,” said Hora. “To navigate this, there is a need for effective financial planning. It is fair to expect medical costs to rise faster than inflation given aging populations and increased pressure on healthcare services, but our survey suggests that perceptions on the extent of such rises are well above actuality.” 

The survey shows that over the past 12 months, the perception of the Filipinos surveyed on healthcare cost inflation was 32%, the highest in the region (average 23%) and around three times the actual rate. Most respondents (61%) are concerned about the rises in cost of prescriptions, while 59% of them are worried about hospitalization, and 45% about preventive healthcare. Curiously, elderly care (16%) is much lower.  

The potential illnesses that worry people in the Philippines the most are heart disease (46%), the leading cause of death in the country, diabetes (42%), stroke (34%) and cancer (31%).  With the broader concerns about their physical well-being and rising medical costs, 78% of the respondents agree that increasing insurance coverage and benefits for inflation is a crucial part of planning for my future financial well-being.  

The findings show a sizeable segment adopting a strategy of using less expensive healthcare (41%) services and medicines (53%), well above the regional average of 31% and 29% respectively. According to the survey, this would typically mean using government health services and generic drugs, rather than going private. Alongside that, about three quarters are exercising more or improving their diet.

Children no longer viewed as alternative to a pension

Across all the markets covered in Asia, 7 out of 10 of those surveyed said they feel health benefits and coverage from their employers are not enough. In the Philippines, it was a little higher at 76%. As things stand, 78% of the Filipinos surveyed feel a need to top up retirement and pension benefits they receive from their employers to boost their future financial well-being. In addition, 58% are looking to delay retirement because of their financial responsibility for their family.

Traditionally in Asia and elsewhere in the world, an alternative to insurance and a pension for old age would be having children. But that is not the case now in the Philippines where 58% of the Filipinos surveyed disagree that children are great investments because they provide support in old age. Only Japan had a higher rating at 70%. In the markets covered, half those surveyed said they do not plan to have kids. The average number of children wanted by Asians is 1.6. In the Philippines, the preferred number is 1.8.

“We encourage more Filipinos to consider ways to increase their health protection. At the same time, insurers have an important role in helping them do that, including changing perceptions on health costs and focusing on specific individual needs. There’s a need also for greater financial literacy,” said Hora. “Doing that will enable everyone to focus on ways to effectively address the challenges on health protection and long-term savings that exist.”

To help address the unique needs of Filipinos when it comes to their health, well-being and finances, Manulife Philippines offers a suite of innovative insurance and investment solutions that can help them financially prepare for the future, while ensuring life and health protection coverage in case of the unexpected. 

About the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2024 

In its fifth year running, the latest Manulife Asia Care Survey was conducted in January and February 2024 via online self-completed questionnaires in eight markets. A total of 8,400 individuals, evenly split between men and women, aged 25 to 60 years old were surveyed: mainland China (1,052), Hong Kong (1,052), Indonesia (1,063), Japan (1,000), Malaysia (1,038), Philippines (1,050), Singapore (1,038) and Vietnam (1,107).  Each of those surveyed either owns insurance or intends to buy insurance. For more info, visit www.manulife.com.ph 

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider that helps people make their decisions easier and live better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our Global Wealth and Asset Management segment, we serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

Kim Chiu is the ambassador of Brilliant Skin Essentials' latest product Hello Melo Drink

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Brilliant Skin Essentials hosted a remarkable event to celebrate several key milestones: the grand launch of their latest product, Hello Melo Drink, in demand actress Kim Chiu as their newest endorser, alongside the contract signings with F&D and iFuel, held at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan on June 2, 2024.

The event commenced with the much-anticipated contract signing with F&D of Brilliant Skin Essentials.

Miss Glenda dela Cruz, CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials, opened the event with inspiring remarks. She stated, 

“Nandito ‘yong Lola ko, ‘yong family ko. She’s  (Miss Glenda’s Inang) the reason why kung bakit ako nandito, gusto kong ipakita sa kanya na lahat ng pinaghirapan mo, ito na ‘yong bunga ng marami ng nagmamahal sa apo mo, and ang dami pong nagmamahal sa Brilliant Skin— lalo na po kayo (F&D). Kaya sabi ko bibigyan ko ng magandang launching ang Hello Melo, ang ating bagong product.”

The attendees had the chance to win raffle prizes, including Brilliant Medical Group treatments, cash prizes, and major prizes such as Zion Eye Massagers, Zion Deluxe Massage Chairs, and an MG Car. Beyond the raffle prizes, attendees also enjoyed fun games that kept the energy high throughout the day.

The event was further enlivened by performances from actress Arci Muñoz and actor Paulo Avelino. Both artists engaged the audience with discussions on how Brilliant Medical Group helped them with their acne problems and how they achieved the no-pore look with the help of Brilliant Medical Group and Miss Glenda.

“I really appreciate you, Glenda. Thank you so much for inviting me to be part of your family, this wonderful group, and your empire. Thank you so much...Brilliant Skin lang ang naka-help sa acne problem ko,” Arci said.

Paulo Avelino added, “Wala po akong masyadong alam pero nung pumunta po ako (Brilliant Medical Group) sabi ko, ‘Doc Ikaw na pong bahala.’ So may mga favorite po ako, ‘yong hydrafacial, and of course there’s this new laser na ginagamit nila to lighten the pigments of your skin, which is very good bilang prone rin ako sa acne.”

A highlight of the event was the grand launch of the beauty drink, Hello Melo Drink. Actress Kim Chiu took the stage to perform and was officially signed as the brand's endorser. She shared her excitement, “I am very excited for this collaboration. Tsaka syempre more collagen, mas babata talaga tayo kasi nga sabi sa study nawawalan ka ng 1% collagen every year, kaya nagmumukha kang matanda but with the help of Helo Melo, lahat tayo babata.”

Showtime host also participated in a Q&A session with the media, discussing her new role and the benefits of Hello Melo Drink.

“‘Pag masaya ka sa buhay mo magrereflect din yan sa mukha mo na maaliwalas, mukhang masaya ka, mukhang maganda ka kasi di mo pinoproblema ‘yong problemang di mo kailangang problemahin. So just live in the moment, mabuhay ka lang. Gawin mo lang ano magpapasaya sa ‘yo and kung ano ‘yong magpapaganda sa ‘yo.” Kim.

Another significant moment was the third contract signing of the day with iFuel.

The event saw an impressive turnout of nearly 1,200 attendees, including franchisees and distributors from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Adding to the star-studded affair was the presence of actor Daniel Matsunaga, whose appearance added even more excitement to the event.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Miss Shed P. Garcia, COO who said, “Dami nating attendees, I can’t imagine na magagawa ‘to ni Brilliant na sobrang short notice lang. And sabi nga ni Miss Glenda, grateful sya kasi kahit short notice pinupuntahan talaga nila ‘yong event ni Brilliant.”

For more updates on the event, follow the official hashtags #BrilliantSummer and #BrilliantSkinEssentials. For more details about the brand, be sure to follow and check out @missglenda on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.