Skip to main content Skip to notification content
Back

In our most recent study, “Understanding Filipino Sentiments Toward Health and Critical Illness”, Manulife Philippines found that many Filipinos still face barriers in embracing better financial and lifestyle habits. The Filipinos’ desire to have a healthy lifestyle is driven by concerns for their families’ welfare, particularly in the face of financial burdens caused by critical illnesses, more than their own personal welfare.

The study also found that financial worries have a greater impact on Filipinos’ sentiments toward protecting themselves from critical illness, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Download the full study

Perception versus reality

63%

of Filipinos consider health as their top priority

But at least

50%

engage in unhealthy eating habits

Family well-being over personal

Filipinos worry about family members getting sick more than they worry about caring for themselves.

3 out of Filipinos' top 5 fears and worries reflect their concern for their family

  1. Family member being diagnosed with critical illness
  2. Accident
  3. Contracting critical illness
  4. Death of a family member
  5. Becoming a burden to my family when I acquire critical illness

Filipinos feel financially unprepared for critical illness

Majority of Filipinos also believe that the cost of critical illness treatment is more than they can afford. The Health Study also reveals that more than half are not ready to finance health expenditures in case a family member gets sick.

80%

believe that critical illness treatment is too costly

52%

feel that they are not financially ready, in case a family member suffers a critical illness

Top 10 critical illnesses most feared by Filipinos

Cancer

1. Cancer

Heart attack / cardiac arrest

2. Heart attack/Cardiac arrest

High blood pressure

3. High blood pressure

Diabetes

4. Diabetes

Heart problem/disease

5. Heart problem/disease

6. Stroke
7. Accident
8. Coronavirus
9. Kidney failure
10. Disease with no cure or difficult treatment

New concerns. Same priorities.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Filipinos’ priorities for family, health, safety and well-being have become stronger than ever. 

Family

1. Family

Health

2. Health

Safety

3. Safety

Well-being

4. Well-being

5. Home
6. Work
7. Savings
8. Insurance
9. Personal Time
10. Investment

If you liked this article, you may find these interesting

  • Why Start Young: The Benefits of Early Health Insurance

    Securing health insurance coverage for your children while young offers several benefits beyond basic health security-setting a strong foundation for their future.

    Read more
  • Cervical Cancer: The Second Most Prevalent Cancer Striking Filipino Women

    Yearly, more than 7,800 Filipinas are diagnosed with cervical cancer – with over 4,000 dying from it. If you’re worried about cervical cancer, or other common critical illnesses such as heart attack and stroke, it’s best to invest in a comprehensive health insurance plan that matches your needs and health priorities.

    Read more
  • Quality of Health and Well-Being

    Read more
See all