Appointment strengthens marketing leadership as Manulife Philippines advances brand, customer experience, and AI ambitions

MANILA, Philippines—Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, announced the appointment of Joy Ann Concepcion as Chief Marketing Officer, effective April 27, 2026. She will be part of the company’s executive committee. 

In her new role, Joy will lead Manulife Philippines’ Marketing agenda—bringing together brand and advertising, content and social media marketing, performance marketing, propositions, digital platforms, AI and growth marketing, customer experience, digital transformation, and corporate social responsibility. She will focus on strengthening brand positioning, delivering simpler and more connected customer experiences, and driving sustainable growth aligned to the company’s business priorities.

“Joy is a proven builder and strategic leader who brings together creativity, customer obsession, and disciplined execution,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Her deep experience across brand, digital, and marketing transformation will be critical as we sharpen our focus on customer outcomes and accelerate our ambition to be the #1 choice for Filipino customers.”

Joy has held multiple leadership roles across Manulife Philippines’ marketing organization since joining the company in 2017. She has helped strengthen the brand, deliver commercial impact, and develop high-performing teams with a strong growth mindset. 

“I’m honored to take on this role and to build on the strong momentum the team has created over the past years,” said Joy Ann Concepcion, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Working closely with our partners across the business, my focus is to sharpen how we deliver for our customers—strengthening the power of our brand, simplifying customer experiences, and turning our marketing priorities into real impact and meaningful growth—so we can better serve Filipinos with the protection, health, and wealth solutions they need.”

His debut single “Training Wheels” reflects on distance, identity, and starting over abroad

Photo credit: Džesika Devic

Metro Manila, Philippines — Iggy San Pablo, best known for his work with Filipino alt-rock band Rusty Machines, returns with simple socks, a solo music project navigating the complexities of adult life and self-discovery through the lens of a migrant. Distinct from San Pablo’s earlier bedroom outing thenils, which represented an exploratory creative phase from his younger years, simple socks is a more assured artistic voice informed by his renewed commitment to storytelling.

“Being an immigrant is a challenge in itself, and that’s an experience I look forward to diving into further as a musician,” shares San Pablo. “Being 34 and having this new solo project, there’s a mixed feeling of a fresh beginning and familiarity all at once. I’m excited to channel that unique energy as I find my footing within the Toronto music scene.”

Now based in Toronto, Canada, San Pablo explores themes of domestic routines, career transitions, and the challenges of making connections in a new environment through simple socks, unlearning some of his habits shaped by the comfort of his upbringing.

On the heels of San Pablo’s new music project is the release of his debut single, “Training Wheels,” an indie rock track that captures the courage of stepping beyond his comfort zone. Written across several years and completed after his relocation to a new, unfamiliar country, the song reflects the emotional weight of distance from family and the determination to build a life independently.

“It was mainly [about] being apart from my family and friends and the anxiety of not knowing when I’ll be seeing them again,” San Pablo explains. “But at the same time, I felt determined to experience a different life far from my safety net. Those were the emotions that I explored while writing Training Wheels. It’s about reassurance, hoping that the special people you left behind back home would eventually be proud of your decisions as an adult.”

Musically, the song leans toward indie rock influences with a sprinkling of Midwest emo sensibilities, citing notable albums such as Death Cab for Cutie’s The Photo Album, Into It. Over It.’s Proper, and susquatch’s In This World as major songwriting inspirations.

“There’s a certain chill that runs through these songs; you can sense that they were written during the winter months. Now that I’m based in Toronto, I understand the feeling on a personal level. It reminds me of Ben Gibbard’s lyrics about finding comfort in the cold, particularly the lines, ‘I don’t mind the weather, I’ve got scarves, and caps, and sweaters…’ I’m living in the same environment, and these records somehow shaped the sound and mood of my latest release.”

Subtle production elements, including sonic references to bicycles, mirror his journey of self-discovery, reinforcing the sense of motion, risk, and progression embedded in the track. San Pablo recounts his fascination with the sound of bike chains and bike bells and his intention to integrate the experience of learning how to ride a bike in his production and arrangement choices.

“I remember sharing an early version of it with a few friends,” San Pablo shares. “It was Howard (Oh, Flamingo!) who pointed out how the song felt like a journey, and I appreciated his feedback because that’s what I wanted to achieve. It was a lot of fun working on this track because I wasn’t overthinking my recording decisions, especially with the guitar parts after the first chorus. I also had to rent a bass guitar from the music store just to record the bass lines and I created a makeshift vocal booth in our bedroom closet just to record my vocals. All of this happened while we were renting a basement unit.”

simple socks’ “Training Wheels” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. 

Make every mall visit count with exciting promos at SM City Masinag and SM Center Antipolo Downtown.

Two exciting promos to join just by shopping at SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SM City Masinag.

ANTIPOLO CITY, Philippines — Shoppers in Antipolo have more reasons to go on a gala to the max this May as exciting mall activities bring more reasons to enjoy every visit at their most-loved mall destinations. Whether it’s a quick shopping errand, a casual dining stop, or a weekend stroll with family and friends, every mall trip becomes more meaningful with added experiences to look forward to.

This summer, shoppers can enjoy maxed-out moments and exciting mall activities at SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SM City Masinag, where every purchase adds more value to every visit.

Shop, Dine, & Drive at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

From April 17 to May 31, shopping and dining become even more exciting at SM Center Antipolo Downtown with the Shop, Dine, & Drive promo.

For every ₱1,000 single or accumulated purchase from participating tenants within the promo period, customers receive one (1) e-raffle entry as part of the ongoing promo in partnership with Starbike.

Whether you’re picking up essentials, dining at your favorite food spots, or enjoying a casual mall day, every receipt becomes part of a more rewarding shopping experience.

Perfect for everyday errands or spontaneous visits, the promo adds another reason for Antipolo shoppers to make the most of every trip to the mall.

Shop, Stamp & Win at SM City Masinag

Meanwhile, from May 1 to 31, shoppers at SM City Masinag can enjoy an engaging mall activity through the Shop, Stamp & Win promo.

Customers who shop ₱1,000 in a single receipt at any store in SM City Masinag may present their receipt at the Shop, Stamp & Win Redemption Booth located at the Lower Ground Level beside the nude elevator to receive a Stamp Coupon. One stamp is earned for every ₱1,000 spend per visit, allowing shoppers to gradually unlock special treats and bonus surprises as they complete their stamp journey.

Whether you’re shopping for fashion finds, home essentials, beauty picks, or dining favorites, every visit adds to a more enjoyable mall experience.

Make Every Mall Day Count

With these exciting promos, Antipolo shoppers can turn every outing into a gala to the max—filled with shopping, dining, and memorable experiences. Every mall visit becomes an opportunity to enjoy more of what you love at your most-loved mall.

Now is the perfect time to plan your next mall day, enjoy a maxed-out shopping experience, and make every spend part of your everyday moments.

Visit SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SM City Masinag today and discover more ways to shop, dine, and enjoy your favorite Antipolo mall destinations.

Home becomes more than just a place to stay. It becomes a space to breathe.

As more people look for simple ways to create calm and comfort at home, the shift toward everyday wellness continues to shape how we live and design our spaces. This summer, you may find yourself wanting a little more ease—something that helps you slow down, even just for a moment.

Bathed in natural light, softened by calming textures, and grounded in effortless design, your home becomes the place that welcomes you the moment you walk through the door. The kind of space where the light lingers a little longer, and the day feels softer, unhurried, and easy.

OUR HOME introduces a collection inspired by ease and quiet comfort, creating an everyday oasis where spaces feel open and layered with soft, calming textures. From light-filled living rooms with chairs and sofas you can settle into and stay a little longer on warm, easy afternoons, to serene bedrooms in cooling tones that help you truly rest, and dining spaces that invite you to slow down and savor the moment.

It’s in the details, too—the gentle glow of a lamp in the corner, the softness of cushions and throws, and accents like vases, greenery, and tabletop pieces that bring warmth and life into your space. The kind of touches that make your home feel complete, without feeling too much.

With a wide range of in-stock furniture, décor, and accessories, OUR HOME makes it easy to bring this sense of ease and comfort into your space.

Designed to bring together comfort, function, and everyday value, each piece supports the way you live now and what you need most—a home that restores you after a long day.

Because when everything feels fast, home becomes the place you return to feel calm, settled, and yourself again.

Visit OUR HOME Grand Central located at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Grand Central and discover finds made for rest, relaxation, and moments worth staying for.
You may also contact a contact a Personal Shopper at 0917-8426069 or shop online at www.ourhome.ph

Create a home that gives you space to breathe, every day.

For the first time in Philippine pageant history, the crown won’t be decided by judges alone. This year, Filipinos get to take the judge’s seat.

Powered by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and Official Voting Partner of Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2026, coronation night transforms into a fully interactive experience—where fans can score candidates live, in real time, alongside the Selection Committee.

From Viewer to Judge: A Major, Major Shift

MUPh raises the stakes by giving fans a more meaningful role during the most anticipated night of the competition.

Through Maya’s live scoring feature, audiences can evaluate candidates as they compete across key segments—from swimsuit to evening gown to Q&A. Every walk. Every answer. Every moment. Now comes with a score—from you.

How It Works: Your Front-Row Seat to Judging

Joining the live scoring experience is simple and seamless through the Maya app:

• Step 1: Through the MUPh tile in the Maya app, purchase a Premium Pass, and review the instructions and scoring guide.
• Step 2: During the coronation night, enter the active competition round (e.g., Swimsuit, Evening Gown, Q&A) and review the candidates
• Step 3: Score each candidate based on your evaluation (from 1 to 10) and review your scores after each round

From confidence and stage presence to overall impact and suitability to the round, fans can judge using guided criteria—making the experience both fun and meaningful.

More Than Just Voting—A Voice That Counts

Beyond live scoring, fans can continue to support their favorite queens throughout the competition by getting FREE votes every day or buying more votes for your MUPh bets. 

With Maya powering this innovation, pageantry evolves into something more dynamic—where fan support doesn’t just live in comments or conversations, but becomes part of the journey itself.

Because on coronation night, when everything is on the line, one thing becomes clear: The universe isn’t just watching. The universe is judging.

U vote. U decide. U crown. For free. U vote with Maya.

JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and Incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, and Atty. Reynaldo Regalado, Insurance CommissionerMANILA, 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.

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 Vietnamin 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 #

MANILA, PH – February 2026 – Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. once again emerged as the No. 1 life insurance company in the Philippines based on Total Premium Income, according to the official data released by the Insurance Commission (IC).

With Total Premium Income amounting to ₱61.8 billion as of end-2025, Sun Life outperformed the nearest competitor by ₱8.9 billion, further cementing its position as the country’s market leader for 15 consecutive years.

Sun Life also secured the top spot in Net Income, Net Worth, Invested Assets, and Total Assets – dominating five out six metrics monitored by the IC.

“We are deeply grateful to our Clients for placing their trust in Sun Life year after year. This recognition belongs to them and to every member of our Sun Life family – our advisors, employees, and partners – whose dedication makes our purpose possible,” said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “Together, we remain committed to delivering meaningful financial solutions that help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”

As Sun Life Philippines accelerates into 2026, the company is expanding its digital capabilities and advisor network while strengthening its commitment to be a true Partner for Life – supporting Filipinos in achieving their financial goals and family aspirations.

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 Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), delivered standout performance in 2025, emerging as the fastest-growing life insurer in the Philippines in terms of new business, while also ranking among the top 10 across key industry metrics including new business annualized premium equivalent (NBAPE), total premium income, and net income.

Sun Life Grepa recorded PHP3.30 billion in NBAPE, reflecting a remarkable 66% increase from 2024 — the highest growth rate among life insurers during the period. This accelerated expansion was driven by strong performance across both individual and group insurance segments, underscoring the company’s ability to respond to evolving protection and financial planning needs.

Total premium income likewise rose to PHP18.59 billion, marking a solid 28% year-on-year increase. Meanwhile, net income reached PHP1.60 billion, representing a growth of 17% from the previous year. These results highlighted the company’s sustained financial strength, disciplined execution, and growing relevance in an increasingly competitive insurance landscape.

The company’s momentum was supported by the introduction and continued strength of solutions that address the diverse and evolving priorities of Filipinos. Products such as Sun Grepa CashBack Protect, Sun Grepa Secure Income, and SLG Global Tech Fund expanded Sun Life Grepa’s portfolio, offering clients more opportunities to combine protection, guaranteed income, savings, and investment to help them build financial security at every stage of life.

Beyond business growth, Sun Life Grepa sustained its commitment to financial inclusion through collaboration with organizations such as Ahon Sa Hirap (ASHI) and ASA Philippines. These partnerships support underserved communities by promoting financial education and expanding access to insurance protection, helping empower more Filipinos to secure their financial future.

Sun Life Grepa’s strong performance in 2025 reflects its continued focus on delivering relevant solutions, strengthening client relationships, and expanding access to life insurance protection. As the company build on its momentum, it remains committed to helping more Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, while reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic life insurers in the country.

#

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