Insider Spotlight:
According to the 2024 PhilLife Meter: Feeling the Insurance Pulse of Pinoy Gen Y and Z study, 67 percent of respondents identified “loss of life” as the unforeseen event they most want protection for in the next three years. Yet, just 24 percent have burial assistance in their plans, ranking it 10th out of 11 insurance choices.
Why It Matters
PhilPlans, the pre-need arm of the Philippines First Insurance Group (PFI Group), is sounding the alarm on this gap. The company is encouraging younger generations to consider memorial planning as an essential act of foresight and compassion.
“Filipinos are naturally caring and family-oriented, but we often shy away from planning for life’s end,” Monico V. Jacob, president and CEO of PhilPlans, said in a press release on Oct. 30, 2025. “Being prepared for the inevitable is actually an act of love and responsibility. Planning ahead eases emotional and financial burdens for our loved ones.”
What’s new
To address this, PhilPlans offers the Memorial Fund Plus (PMF Plus)—a plan that enhances standard memorial coverage with a 3 percent annual benefit growth, immediate cash assistance, and round-the-clock support. Backed by more than 300 mortuary partners nationwide, the plan also includes a Living Cash Benefit for planholders’ immediate needs.
“We designed the plan to provide peace of mind for families when the time comes,” Jacob added. “It ensures that memorial expenses are covered, allowing families to focus on what truly matters—honoring and remembering their loved ones.”
The bottom line
As All Saints’ Day nears, PhilPlans is calling on Filipinos to take the moment not just to remember departed loved ones—but also to prepare for life’s inevitable end as a gesture of enduring care and responsibility. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
