FWD Life Insurance has launched significant initiatives in the Philippines and Hong Kong to address evolving needs in workforce development and regional healthcare access across Asia.
Leadership Development in the Philippines
FWD Philippines recently concluded its inaugural women’s leadership program, ‘Forging Women’s Development in Leadership, Innovation, and Future Excellence’ (FWD LIFE). This pioneering initiative in the Philippine insurance market aims to support women’s professional development in the industry. Developed in collaboration with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), the program focuses on leadership strategy, network-building, and purpose-driven management.
The program aligns with industry efforts to improve gender representation in executive positions. According to a 2024 report by the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, women hold 40% of executive roles in publicly traded firms, with growth observed in operational leadership positions – a key pathway to senior management.
“As the insurer of the next generation, FWD believes in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for everyone,” said Vita Guillen, FWD Philippines’ chief people and culture officer. “This program underscores the value of women having a seat at the table – not only for equity but for the broader perspective and positive contributions they bring.”
Marian Lleander, AIM’s program director, noted that this was the first time the institution had developed a tailored leadership curriculum for a corporate client. “Commissioning this program speaks of FWD’s sincere commitment to the growth and empowerment of their female leaders,” she added.
Expanding Cross-Border Healthcare in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, FWD has introduced two new medical insurance plans to address the growing demand for healthcare services across multiple jurisdictions within the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The GBAssure Outpatient Plan and NobleCare Premier Medical Plan provide coverage for residents frequently traveling between Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China.
The GBAssure Outpatient Plan covers general medical consultations, traditional Chinese medicine, mental health services, and diagnostic procedures. It offers family-wide coverage under one policy, requires no health screening, and can be managed through FWD’s digital platform.
The NobleCare Premier Medical Plan, designed for high-net-worth individuals, offers lifetime international health coverage with various deductible options and flexible treatment zones. Features include comprehensive hospital and surgical coverage, access to over 300 top-tier hospitals, and a cashless admission system. The plan is renewable until age 101.
Ken Lau, CEO of FWD Hong Kong, emphasized that the new plans address the growing healthcare needs in the GBA. FWD is also enhancing its partnership with HKSH Medical Group to support cancer patients through remote consultations between Hong Kong doctors and mainland China hospitals, as well as specialized case management.
FWD’s 2024 internal claims data showed that 71% of critical illness claims were related to cancer, prompting the expansion of services. Additional offerings include second-opinion consultations, personalized treatment plans, and nutritional guidance. Dr. Joseph Chan, chief medical officer at HKSH, noted that a nurse coordinator will support each cross-border patient throughout their treatment journey.
