Insider Spotlight
Palawan Group of Companies is positioning Palawan ProtekTODO Critical Illness Insurance as a response to that long-standing gap in accessible health protection, especially for everyday earners with limited safety nets.
The big picture
Designed to be affordable and easy to understand, ProtekTODO provides lump-sum cash benefits upon diagnosis of heart attack, stroke, or cancer, regardless of whether the illness is detected early or at an advanced stage.
These illnesses consistently rank among the leading causes of death in the Philippines, making them a critical pressure point for households already managing tight budgets.
Palawan Group president and CEO Karlo M. Castro said in a press statement that the initiative is rooted in addressing a persistent coverage gap: “We see a real gap in coverage for serious illnesses like heart attack, stroke, and cancer. Many Filipinos only think about the financial impact when a medical emergency already happens, leaving them vulnerable to sudden and overwhelming costs.”
“ProtekTODO is our way of saying that no Filipino, no matter their socio-economic standing, should have to face critical illness alone or unprepared. By simplifying the process and bringing protection closer to where people already are, we hope to empower more families to take that first step toward financial security.”
How it works
Policyholders receive a 100 percent lump-sum cash benefit upon diagnosis, which can be used flexibly for medical bills, income loss, or household expenses during recovery. Coverage is available for Filipinos aged 18 to 60, with one year of protection per policy.
Two options are offered to fit varying budgets. The Basic Plan provides P50,000 coverage for as low as P550 per year, while the Plus Plan offers P100,000 coverage starting at P1,100 annually. Multiple policies can be availed, with total benefits capped at P500,000.
Partnership approach
Palawan Group partnered with OONA Insurance to deliver the product nationwide through branches, the PalawanPay app, and e-commerce platforms.
Lisa Castro-Sabado, chief business development officer of Palawan Group, said the collaboration reflects a shared goal of simplicity and trust, integrating insurance into daily financial routines rather than positioning it as a luxury.
What’s nextAs more Filipinos prioritize health and financial readiness, Palawan ProtekTODO frames critical illness insurance as a foundation rather than an optional add-on.
By lowering cost barriers and simplifying access, the company aims to normalize protection planning before crisis hits. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
