Sun Life Philippines And Wish 107.5 Bring Financial Literacy Aboard The Iconic Wish Bus

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

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

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

A.C. Steel Industries donates materials for Security Bank Foundation classrooms

Executives and representatives from Security Bank Foundation and A.C. Steel during the signing ceremony for the Build a School, Build a Nation partnership (1st row L-R): Richard Uy, Chief Operating Officer, AC Steel Industries, Inc.; Enrique Dominic Miguel C. Sola, Chief Executive Officer, AC Steel Industries, Inc.; Rafael Simpao Jr., Chairman, Security Bank Foundation; Melissa Aquino, Trustee, Security Bank Foundation; and Louie De Real, Executive Director, Security Bank Foundation

(2nd row L-R): Kerr
Sumagaysay, Marketing and Sales Officer, AC Steel Industries, Inc.; Ruth Peñaflor, Admin Manager, AC Steel Industries, Inc.; Christian Chua, Treasurer, AC Steel Industries, Inc.; Fritzie Moog, Area Head, Makati 3, Branch Banking Group, Security Bank Corporation; Maria Ayesha Aguiting, Adviser, Security Bank Foundation; Alan Layco, Adviser, Security Bank Foundation; and Ricardo Llego, Resource Mobilization Officer, Security Bank Foundation

The Fire Horse Year Is Full of Surprises: How Pinoys Build Everyday Financial Safety Nets

The Year of the Fire Horse in 2026 is predicted to be a year full of energy, fast changes, and surprises that can come out of nowhere. In Chinese astrology, they call it a “high-speed” year: good luck can come fast, but problems can hit just as quickly. It’s a time to take bold steps, not just sitting and waiting—but caution is still needed to avoid reckless spending.

For many Filipinos, money is often the biggest challenge. One week, the budget is fine. Next, there’s a sudden home repair, extra capital needed for a small business, or a renovation that can’t wait. In a Fire Horse year, the risk isn’t just moving fast—it’s moving without a backup plan.

Your Next Pop-Up Might Just Belong at This Events Spot in Pasay

The Amphitheater at the PNB Financial Center in Pasay is one of PNB Holdings Corporation’s PHC Event Spaces, ideal for open-air or pop-up events.

There’s a renewed love for spending time outdoors.

More people linger at open‑air concerts, wander through weekend markets, meet up with friends under wide skies, or explore pockets of the city they hadn’t noticed before. These shared moments, while simple, vibrant, and unhurried, are inspiring a fresh wave of events shaped around openness and connection.

This rediscovered appetite for shared experiences has led to a shift toward event spaces that feel open, inviting, and accessible. Among organizers, exhibitors, and creative planners, a venue steadily becoming a favorite is The Amphitheater at the PNB Financial Center.

Security Bank ranked #1 among domestic banks in Euromoney Trade Finance Survey 2026

Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has been ranked #1 Overall in the Philippines among Domestic Banks and #1 for Trade Finance Products in the Philippines in the client-led Euromoney Trade Finance Survey 2026

The Euromoney Trade Finance Survey is one of the industry’s most widely recognized benchmarks, based on direct feedback from trade finance users evaluating banks on product capability, service quality, and relationship strength.

How Filipinos Cover Expenses Before Payday

For many Filipinos, the days leading up to payday can feel like a balancing act. Bills, groceries, transportation, and unexpected expenses don’t wait for the 15th or 30th. Yet, despite these challenges, Filipinos have developed creative and practical ways to stretch their budget until the next salary credit.

Common Strategies Filipinos Use Before Payday

1. Budgeting Essentials First

Most households prioritize necessities food, utilities, and transportation while postponing non‑essential purchases. This helps ensure that the most important needs are met even when funds are tight.

2. Borrowing from Family or Friends

It’s common to rely on trusted circles for short‑term financial support. While informal borrowing can be helpful, it may also strain relationships if repayment is delayed.

Sun Life Philippines Hosts Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada’s Women’s Business Mission

Sun Life Philippines, the country’s No. 1 life insurance company in terms of total premium income, recently hosted the Women’s Business Mission of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada at the company’s head office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening ties between Canada and the Asia-Pacific region through research, dialogue, and strategic business engagement. Its Women’s Business Mission brings together women-led and women-owned Canadian companies to explore opportunities for collaboration, trade, and investment in key markets across Asia, while advancing women’s economic empowerment and inclusive growth. 

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

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

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

Security Bank Foundation and JVR Foundation expand partnership with new school building in Bukidnon

The memorandum of agreement signing was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr., Security Bank Corporation EVP and Branch Banking Group Head Leslie Cham, SBFI Trustee Melissa Aquino, JVRF Executive Director Kana Manglapus, and Fr. Marlon Fabros, SJ, President of PCHS

More than 1,000 students from farming and indigenous communities in Pangantucan, Bukidnon will soon benefit from safer and more conducive learning spaces as Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) and Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRF) expand their partnership to build a new 2-storey, 6-classroom school building in Pangantucan Community High School (PCHS).

PNB Holdings Expand Tenant Mix with CHAGEE Lease Signing

(From left) PHC CFO Ponciano S. Carreon, Jr., PHC President Karlu T. Say, CHAGEE Philippines Country GM Sonny Tiong, and Deputy GM Ollie Rabatan toast to a new partnership on March 9, 2026 at the PNB Makati Center.

PNB Holdings Corporation (PHC) has formalized a new partnership with CHAGEE Philippines, the international tea brand, through a ceremonial lease signing that reinforces its continued focus on curated, future-ready commercial spaces.

CHAGEE is recognized for its beverages centered on tea and for creating welcoming spaces that encourage connection and everyday moments of pause Its entry into PNB Makati Center adds a lifestyle-driven dimension to the development, aligning with the evolving expectations of today's urban consumers.

Financial Independence Is the Real Power Move This Women’s Month and Maya Is Here to Help

Women’s Month this year opened with a clear message: women are done settling for less. Across social media, conversations about respect and accountability have been louder than ever.

But empowerment isn’t just about calling things out. For many, it’s also about making sure they never feel financially stuck in the first place. Because independence doesn’t only show up in conversations or personal choices. It shows up in everyday decisions, including how we manage our money.

3 Ways to Set Yourself Up for Success If You Want To Start Freelancing

Freelancing opens doors to career flexibility: choosing your clients and projects, setting your own hours, and building your career on your terms. In theory, freelancing sounds simple: work with multiple international clients, do good work, and grow your income. But it’s rarely that straightforward. Beyond the work itself, there’s a lot you’ll need to figure out, such as finding the right clients, managing workload, and staying on top of your finances in what can be a very unpredictable setup. 

Alsons Dev, DoubleDragon Break Ground on Mindanao’s First CentralHub

The groundbreaking ceremony for CentralHub Davao was led by (L-R) Lorenzo Ang Bue Te, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez, DoubleDragon Vice Chairman Ferdinand J. Sia, Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo S. Duterte II, DoubleDragon President Atty. Rodolfo Ponferrada, and MinDA Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), in partnership with DoubleDragon Properties Corporation (DoubleDragon) through its industrial leasing subsidiary, CentralHub Industrial Centers Inc., broke ground on CentralHub Davao on March 5, 2026 in Barangay Lasang, Davao City. This milestone marks the start of construction of the first CentralHub in Mindanao, a 6.2-hectare industrial warehouse complex that will support the region’s growing logistics and distribution needs.

From everyday savings to a dream ride: Security Bank client wins BYD Sealion 6

(L-R): Katrina D. Aurellano, Deposit and Payroll Marketing Manager. Marc Dave Gonzales, winner of the brand-new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i; Candice Chee, CASA Growth and Retention Head and Fortunato Miguel Gupit, CASA Growth and Retention Manager during the handover ceremony at BYD Alabang

Saving regularly and staying active on digital banking just paid off for one Security Bank client, who drove home a brand-new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i after winning the bonus draw of the Bank’s 12 Gifts of Christmas Raffle Promo.

EastWest Guides Clients Through 2026 with Economic and Feng Shui Insights

Expert-led sessions to help clients navigate opportunities in a fast‑shifting economic landscape

In line with its commitment to empower clients with insights that fuel informed and confident decision making, East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) hosted a series of curated events in Pampanga and Metro Manila to usher in the Year of the Fire Horse with a forward-looking economic outlook for 2026.

The sessions brought together clients from the bank’s Retail, Priority, and Corporate Banking, offering exclusive insights from experts to help them navigate the year ahead with confidence, enhance their wealth management plans, and support their long‑term financial well‑being.

PHINMA marks major milestones in Bacolod’s emerging North District

TRYP by Wyndham Joint venture signing and groundbreaking signal visible momentum for Saludad Township 

Bacolod’s growth is moving northward, and Saludad is moving with it.

As Bacolod expands beyond its traditional center, North District, the city’s fastest emerging growth area, is beginning to take shape. It is where Bacolod’s next phase of development is unfolding. At its heart is Saludad, the master-planned township helping pioneer this growth and becoming the address Bacolod is growing into.

PHINMA Hospitality breaks ground on TRYP by Wyndham Bacolod in Saludad

Reflecting PHINMA’s strong support for Bacolod City’s economic growth and tourism development, PHINMA Hospitality has broken ground on TRYP by Wyndham Bacolod last March 4 in the Saludad township of PHINMA Properties.

The groundbreaking of TRYP by Wyndham Bacolod in Saludad was attended by (L-R) PHINMA Microtel Hotels Director Ar. Luis Nakpil, PHINMA Hospitality Management Company President & COO Dean Cid, PHINMA Microtel Hotels Director Miguel del Rosario, PHINMA Hospitality & PHINMA Microtel Hotels CEO Jose Mari del Rosario, PHINMA Corp. President & COO Dr. Chito Salazar, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya, JEPP Real Estate Co. President and JEPP Property Corp. Director Pia Dabao, PHINMA Properties and JEPP Property Corporation President & CEO Pete Felix, JEPP Real Estate Co. Corporate Secretary Mike Puentevella, PHINMA Properties Chief Housing Officer and JEPP Property Corp. COO Paolo Reyes, PHINMA Properties and JEPP Property Corporation CFO and Treasurer Michael Hilado, and Royal Pineda+ Architecture.Design Principal Architect Ar. Royal Pineda.

Sun Life Foundation expands basic healthcare access in Central Luzon with turnover of three new health stations

Thousands of residents in Central Luzon have gained access to basic healthcare services following the recent turnover of three new health stations by Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) to communities in the region.

Implemented in partnership with Health Futures Foundation, Inc. (HFI), the Sun Life Barangay Health Stations program expands healthcare access by constructing equipped and fully functional health stations in remote, low-income, and underserved communities. Here, residents can receive health services, including vaccinations, prenatal checkups, and health education.

Omega Healthcare Scales USRN Hiring Across Its Manila and Cebu Delivery Centers

The expansion addresses rising demand for non-bedside nursing roles supporting the US healthcare system while creating more in-country career opportunities for Filipino nurses

Omega Healthcare, a leading Multinational Corporation and a provider of technology-enabled healthcare solutions, is ramping up hiring for US-registered nurses (USRNs) across its Manila and Cebu delivery centers to support the growing demand for non-bedside clinical services for the United States healthcare system.

The initiative is part of the company’s plan to expand its Philippine workforce to 4,000–5,000 employees this year, further strengthening the country’s role in Omega Healthcare’s global delivery network.

Sun Life and Borough Group of Clinics collaborate to advance accessible, holistic healthcare for Filipinos

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

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

Security Bank, VeritasPay expand digital payment solutions for MSMEs

Security Bank and VeritasPay have teamed up to expand payment solutions to MSMEs. Seated (L-R): John David Yap, EVP and Business Banking Segment Head, Security Bank; Christopher Payne, President and CEO, VeritasPay; and Lex Cimagala, FVP and Customer Value Proposition Head, Security Bank. Standing (L-R): Meynard Espinosa, AVP and Product Manager, Security Bank; Carl Tienzo, General Manager & Business Development Head, VeritasPay; Kristine Cruz, Business Operations Head, VeritasPay; and Xyrus Dayao, Business Development Manager, VeritasPay

PBB Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 Closes with a Historic Finale and a Big Collab Charity Mission

The curtain has officially closed on Pinoy Big Brother (PBB): Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0, and the Big Night delivered everything fans hoped for—high-stakes challenges, emotional farewells, and the long-awaited reveal of this season’s Big Winners. 

From an intense live final task given by Big Brother to the emotional crowning moment, the historic finale marked another milestone collaboration between ABS-CBN and GMA Network. Powering this unforgettable season was Maya—the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and PBB’s official voting partner—giving Mayamayans the power to vote and Housemates the tools to turn their weekly wins into something bigger. 

Confidently achieve your life goals with UITFs through Metrobank Online

For as low as PHP10,000, you can grow your money easily, securely, and confidently 

Metrobank continues to make investing easier and more accessible by enabling Unit Investment Trust Fund (UITF) account opening online.

Clients can now open and manage their UITF investments directly through Metrobank Online, the Bank’s internet banking platform. With the UITF Online feature, investing can be done anytime and anywhere. In just a few clicks, clients can subscribe to or redeem funds and monitor their portfolios, all professionally managed by Metrobank’s multi-awarded team of fund managers.

Security Bank Foundation, Ideal Vision bring free eyeglasses to 1,000 Central Luzon students

Pictured during the MOA signing ceremony - Front row (L-R): Ralph Martin Go, Ideal Vision Center Digital Marketing Head; Louie Boy De Real, SBFI Executive Director; Melissa Aquino, SBFI Trustee and Corporate Secretary; Dr. Ronnie Mallari, CESO III, DepEd Region 3 Regional Director; Dr. Jessie Amin, CESO IV, DepEd Region 3 Assistant Regional Director; Sammy Sampang; DepEd Region 3 Chief Education Supervisor

Second row (L-R): Lyn Bartolome, Ideal Vision Center Marketing Manager; Ginno Jhep Pacquing, DepEd Region 3 Data Protection Officer; Ricardo Llego, SBFI Communications and Resource Mobilization Officer

Sun Life survey reveals most Filipinos expect to keep working beyond retirement age

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.

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

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.

Get Your Travel Fund Summer-Ready with Maya

If your group chats have quietly rebranded themselves into “Siargao 2.0” or “Japan 2026,” that’s usually the cue: summer planning has officially begun. Flights are being shared. Leave credits are being filed. Outfit mood boards are slowly taking shape. 

But here’s what’s different in 2026: trips don’t feel like spontaneous splurges anymore, they feel intentional.

According to recent findings, Millennials and Gen Z travelers aren’t just spending on travel. They’re planning earlier, booking more deliberately, and mapping out itineraries months ahead.

Security Bank delivers 26% growth in operating profit before provisions in 2025 Revenues at PHP66.9B; net profit at PHP11.6B

Security Bank Corporation (PSE: SECB) reported total revenues of PHP66.9 billion in 2025, up 22% year-on-year, supported by sustained performance across its core banking businesses and diversified income streams. Net income reached PHP11.6 billion, up 3% year-on-year, as the Bank balanced revenue growth with higher credit provisioning to reinforce balance-sheet resilience amid a challenging macroeconomic environment. Pre-provision operating profit (PPOP) rose 26% year-on-year to PHP27.6 billion, underscoring the Bank’s core earnings capacity. 

“We are seeing the benefits of the strong foundations we have built. Following a period of intentional investment and operating in a more challenging macro environment, we are refocusing on disciplined growth, delivering strong revenue momentum, improving asset quality, and maintaining a resilient balance sheet. This reflects our BetterBanking approach, focused on long-term value and serving our customers and all stakeholders responsibly,” said Victor Lee Meng Teck, President and CEO of Security Bank.

Sun Life Grepa Emerges as Fastest-Growing Life Insurer, Posting Strong Gains in New Business, Premium Income, and Net Income

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. 

Alsons Dev Reinforces Cultural Advocacy in Davao’s National Arts Month Celebration

The National Arts Month opening ceremony in Davao was graced by (L-R) Alcantara Foundation Executive Director Ryan Vidanes, NCCA Project Officer Corrinah Olazo, Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts Division Head Oscar Casaysay, Councilor Atty. Petite Principe, Alsons Dev Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga, NCCA Commissioner of the Sub-commission for Culture and the Arts Dr. Lordinio A. Vergara, Councilor Al Ryan S. Alejandre, Davao City Tourism Operations Officer In Charge Willenito Tormis Jr., NCCA National Head of the Committee on Visual Arts Al-Nezzar B. Ali, and NCCA National Executive Member of the Committee on Visual Arts Abraham A. Garcia Jr. 

Security Bank Wealth convenes global experts to guide investors through shifting market conditions in 2026

Security Bank Wealth hosted Chinese New Year Appreciation Gatherings in Manila and Cebu, offering clients valuable insights from local and global experts. From (L-R): Jason Lim, Director, Team Lead, Retail Distribution, Southeast Asia, Allianz Global Investors; Angelo Taningco, VP and Chief Economist, Security Bank; Chrissi Morillo, FVP and Investment Strategy Head, Security Bank; Cirilo P. Noel, Chairman, Security Bank; Victor Lee Meng Teck, President and CEO, Security Bank; Jim Yap, EVP and Financials Market Segment Head, Security Bank; Thomas Wu, Market Strategy Analyst, Invesco Ltd.; and Dion Ong, Head of APAC, Horizon Capital AG.

As inflation stabilizes and interest rates begin to normalize, investors are entering a more selective risk environment in 2026—one that calls for disciplined diversification and a sharper focus on opportunity across both local and global markets.