As life expectancy continues to rise, Filipinos are fundamentally redefining the concept of leaving a legacy. Rather than focusing solely on wealth transfer, adults across the country increasingly view personal independence, financial freedom, and self-reliance as the ultimate gift they can leave behind for their families.

According to the latest Manulife Asia Care Survey 2026: Independence as the New Legacy, Filipinos want to live longer, healthier lives without becoming a physical or financial burden on their loved ones. The comprehensive survey gathered insights from more than 9,000 respondents across Asia, including 1,000 participants in the Philippines, examining attitudes toward longevity, caregiving pressures, retirement readiness, and long-term financial security.

Independence as the New Legacy

The findings reflect a maturing approach to longevity in the Philippines. While past generations focused primarily on extending life, modern Filipinos prioritize maintaining high quality of life, autonomy, and decision-making freedom well into their senior years.

Key Survey Insights:
• 88% believe personal independence and financial freedom are the best inheritance for their families (rising to 95% among ages 25–34).
• 56% prioritize personal health and quality of life as part of their legacy goals.
• 53% cite unexpected healthcare and living expenses in later years as a top concern.

"For many Filipinos, legacy has always been deeply connected to family," said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Philippines. "What we are seeing now is that people view legacy not only as what they leave behind, but as the choices they make to stay healthy, independent, and empowered. At Manulife, we are committed to providing the protection, advice, and financial solutions necessary to navigate these evolving needs with confidence and dignity."

The Reality Gap: Caregiver Burnout and Financial Strain

Despite high aspirations for independence, the study reveals significant friction between vision and reality. Heavy caregiving duties and immediate financial demands are actively delaying long-term preparation for many Filipinos—particularly the "Sandwich Generation" caring for both aging parents and dependent children.

"Filipinos caught in these dual responsibilities should not have to choose between caring for their families and securing their own future," Hora added. "That is precisely the challenge we want to help them solve."

Bridging the Planning Gap

Financial anxiety remains high. 82% of Filipinos express worry about affording future care needs, significantly higher than the regional average of 66%. Respondents estimate needing an average of PHP 34,485 per month for late-life care.

Demonstrating a strong drive for self-sufficiency, 87% plan to rely on personal savings and 59% on investments, while only 21% expect financial support from their children.

How Filipinos Plan to Adapt Investments:
1. Shift toward income-generating assets (48%)
2. Partner with professional financial advisors (30%)
3. Diversify across various asset classes (28%)
4. Adopt capital-preservation strategies (21%)

"Financial independence is becoming an essential part of a secure and dignified future," noted Aira Gaspar, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Investments Philippines. "We help bridge the gap between intention and action by offering professionally managed unit investment trust funds (UITFs) and guidance tailored to every life stage, making long-term wealth building both accessible and actionable."

About the Study & Manulife Longevity Institute

The Manulife Asia Care Survey 2026 aligns with the mission of the Manulife Longevity Institute—a global platform backed by a $350 million commitment to advance research, thought leadership, and community investments that help people live longer, healthier, and more financially resilient lives.

To access the complete white paper and report, visit: Manulife Asia Care Survey 2026.

About Manulife Philippines

The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company opened its doors in the Philippines in 1907. Today, Manulife Philippines is one of the country's leading life insurance providers and a wholly owned domestic subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation. For more information, visit manulife.com/ph.