As freelancing grows, BPI AIA expands health protection access

Insider Spotlight

• BPI AIA is expanding medical and life protection solutions for freelancers and self-employed Filipinos
• The offerings combine healthcare benefits with life insurance coverage
• Coverage is designed to remain in place despite employment and income changes
  
  
  

BPI AIA is expanding access to medical and life protection products for freelancers and gig workers, responding to the growing number of Filipinos pursuing careers outside traditional employment structures.

The insurer said its Medical Solutions offerings, available through BPI AIA Future Ready and BPI AIA Aspire, provide hospitalization and healthcare benefits alongside life insurance coverage, helping independent workers prepare for both medical emergencies and long-term financial goals.

With more Filipinos working as virtual assistants, online sellers, ride-hailing drivers, and creative professionals, access to healthcare protection remains a challenge for many who do not receive employer-sponsored benefits. 

While HMOs and PhilHealth provide support, major medical events can still result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.

The big picture

“Today’s workforce looks very different from what it did years ago. More Filipinos are building careers outside traditional employment, but their need for medical and life protection remains just as important,” BPI AIA CEO Karen Custodia said in a press statement.

The company said its offerings are designed to complement existing HMO and PhilHealth coverage or provide additional financial support for those without employer-sponsored healthcare plans. Benefits cover hospital confinement, surgical procedures, critical care, emergency treatment, and recovery support, in addition to life insurance protection.

Why it matters

Medical emergencies can have a greater financial impact on independent workers because illness often affects both health and income simultaneously. BPI AIA said its plans are structured to provide long-term value, allowing customers to choose coverage levels that match their needs and budgets while maintaining protection even as careers and income streams evolve.

The medical rider is renewable up to age 80, while life insurance coverage may extend up to age 100, helping customers stay protected through different life stages.

“When you work independently, a medical emergency doesn’t just affect your health. It can also disrupt your income and long-term plans,” Custodia said. “That’s why having the right protection matters. It helps people stay financially prepared while continuing to pursue their goals,” she added.

BPI AIA said it hopes the initiative will encourage more Filipinos to treat medical and life protection as an essential component of financial preparedness, regardless of employment type. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma