A recent survey by Manulife Philippines highlights significant challenges in Filipinos’ health and financial preparedness, with cost being a primary barrier to adopting healthier lifestyles. The report, titled “In Wellness and In Health: Navigating the landscape of health, well-being, and financial preparedness in the Philippines,” reveals that while 86 percent of respondents recognize the importance of lifestyle choices in maintaining health, many face obstacles that prevent them from living healthier lives.
Manulife Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora pointed out concerning trends among young Filipinos, who, despite being well-informed, are increasingly dealing with lifestyle-related illnesses. The survey found that Filipinos aged 18 to 29 are more likely to fall sick, averaging 3.4 sick days per year compared to the national average of 2.7. Younger people in this age group also report getting less sleep and exercise, with 68 percent citing the high cost of maintaining an exercise routine as a key deterrent.
Nutrition emerged as a priority for improving health, yet misconceptions about healthy diets, along with the perceived high cost and difficulty of meal preparation, continue to hinder healthier eating habits. Nearly half of respondents believe healthy meals are less appetizing, and 35% find them more difficult to prepare and access.
Furthermore, the survey reveals that many Filipinos are financially unprepared for medical emergencies. Despite two-thirds of respondents believing their health coverage is adequate, 41 percent of medical expenses are still paid out of pocket, primarily from personal savings. Young Filipinos are particularly vulnerable, saving an average of just P38,000 for future medical costs—much less than the P62,000 saved by older respondents.
Hora emphasized the need for better education on health, nutrition, and financial preparedness, urging Filipinos to take actionable steps toward improving both their lifestyles and financial security. “Addressing both health and financial preparedness is key to building a more resilient foundation for managing healthcare needs,” he said.
