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Travel is back in full swing, and according to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), the country’s air passengers quadrupled to 15.93 million for domestic trips alone for the first nine months of 2022, and 6.3 million for international, increasing threefold from 2021.  Bet you also caught the travel bug! Whether you go local or international this summer, it’s always best to be prepared.  Here are tips on how you can plan that well-deserved summer trip:  Prepare a rough budget. Before planning any vacation, the responsible thing to do is to come up with a rough estimate of all your expected expenses for the trip.  No need to go into too much detail yet, but make sure to prepare estimates of the major costs such as transportation, accommodations, food, attraction fees, shopping, insurance, and many more as this would already help you create a ballpark figure you can set aside.  Check your travel documents. Despite the easing of travel restrictions, certain destinations still have additional safety requirements for entry. Always research on these requirements and check if you need to update or secure new travel documents. For local travel, prepare your vaccination card, while international trips call for updated passports and visas, as needed.         Do some initial research. Everyone has different travel styles – some prefer to plan their trips down to the last minute, while some prefer to go with the flow. Regardless of your preference, do some quick research on your destination to arm with you with essential information such as the season during the visit, if the locals speak English (maybe learn a few helpful phrases!), the local currency, important cultural sensitivities, etc. These will come in handy when you work on your daily itinerary nearer your trip, as you’ll be more aware of the parameters you’ll need to work with. Plan with peace of mind.  Traveling is fun until the unforeseen happens. That’s why it is strongly advised to get travel insurance for you and your loved ones. It protects you from travel inconveniences throughout your trip such as delayed flights, lost suitcases, last-minute cancellations of flights, and medical emergencies, depending on the plan or variant you choose.  Smart Traveller, AXA Philippines’ comprehensive travel insurance, is designed for you to enjoy every moment with your family and friends. It offers 24/7 emergency travel assistance for round-the-clock travel and medical support anywhere and has top-tier medical coverage for expenses such as hospital costs, doctors’ professional fees, and more in case you suffer injury or illnesses during your trip. With Smart Traveller, you can also file a claim for reimbursements of pre-booked, non-refundable travel expenses in case of trip cancellations or postponement, while offering protection for your personal belongings in case of loss and damage. Smart Traveller’s Classic and Elite variants are also Schengen-accredited, so you can tick this off your visa requirements as well. You can also get additional savings when purchasing this product for two or more people, and if you are a frequent traveler, AXA has annual plans you can avail of as well. Visit https://www.axa.com.ph/travel-insurance and explore how you can experience a safe and worry-free summer to remember this 2023.

Emma by AXA PH is the all-in-one digital tool of AXA Philippines that is the dedicated health and financial wellness partner of its customers. It recently unveiled new features to further cater to the needs of AXA health and insurance with investment policyholders, to help them enjoy an even easier and more convenient insurance experience online. With the latest updates, health policyholders, such as those with Global Health Access and Health Care Access plans, can now access features that make AXA’s health services more convenient. Insurance with investment policyholders can also make use of the new features manage their funds with ease. Through Emma by AXA PH, health policyholders can request for a Letter of Guarantee and access MedNetwork, an online database of doctors and medical institutions accredited by AXA Philippines. Global Health Access policyholders can also file for their Claims for Over-the-Counter Vitamins directly on the platform. Insurance with investment policyholders can access and manage their investment through the new Fund Allocation feature, which allows them to adjust the amount allocated to the funds in their portfolio. The Fund Switch feature also helps customers transfer their money from one fund to another while the Fund Top-Up aids customers to add more funds to their investments. On the recent improvements, AXA Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Bernardo Serrano Lopez shared, “Now, more than ever, Emma by AXA PH is our customers’ reliable partner towards health and financial wellness. In our dynamic and digitally-driven world, AXA Philippines remains steadfast in catering to the ever-changing needs of our customers, and it is through these constant digital developments that we’re able to further provide their needs and be their partner in life.”   Access Emma by AXA PH online or download the app for free on the Google Play or App Store. For more information, visit  https://www.axa.com.ph/emma.

Affordable and comprehensive insurance for your family is now just a text away as leading insurance provider AXA Philippines partners with leading mobile wallet app GCash for SMS Insure, an insurance product that provides financial protection in the event of hospitalization, accidents, or death.  “Every Filipino deserves comprehensive protection that is both accessible and affordable, which is why we continue to pursue partnerships that bring insurance even closer to Filipinos, especially the underserved population,” shared Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer.  For as low as Php 117 per month, SMS Insure, underwritten by AXA, can help you protect yourself and two other members of your family with its Bronze Family Plan. Each insured family member gets best-value comprehensive coverage, with a Php 25,000 Personal Accident Coverage and Php 25,000 Term Life Coverage, respectively. It also comes with a Daily Hospitalization Income of up to Php 750, which pays Php 250 per day up to a maximum confinement of three days.It is also made more convenient with its easy purchase and claims process. Simply text INSUREFAM117 to 2158-9628 (for Globe users) or 22565-9628 (for non-Globe users) and get insured within the next 1-2 business days. Once your insurance policy has been fully processed, the monthly insurance fee for your selected insurance product will be deducted automatically from your GCash balance. You can also click the GInsure button in the GCash App and go to the Marketplace. Scroll down, click SMS Insure and choose INSUREFAM117 or other SMS Insure plans. Then simply follow the directions on your screen.To vouch for the ease of its claims process, SMS Insure policyholder Ruby Gastardo shared in a testimonial video how she was able to easily claim her benefits after her mother was unexpectedly hospitalized.  She shared, “Na-ospital si nanay. Wala kaming nagawa, kailangan s’yang i-amputate. Kung wala pa akong insurance, doble ang hirap ko sa paghahanap ng pera. Naalala ko na meron pala akong GCash SMS Insure Family Plan. Right after na mailabas si Nanay, kinlaim ko yung benefits ko. Nag-wait lang ako ng ilang days, then sinend na nila sa’kin sa GCash account ko. (My mom was hospitalized. We can’t do anything [as] she had to be amputated. If I didn’t have insurance, it would have been hard to find money. I remembered that I had a GCash Insure Family Plan. Right after my mom was released, I claimed my benefits. I only waited for a few days then they sent it to me through my GCash account.)”To learn more about SMS Insure, visit gcash.com/smsinsure. To know AXA Philippines’ other insurance products, visit www.axa.com.ph.

AXA Philippines Chief Technology and Transformation Officer Carlos “Caloi” Santos was recognized as one of the top 100 tech leaders in ASEAN and Hong Kong by CIO100 2022 during a ceremony at the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. CIO 100 awards outstanding tech achievements delivered by individuals and organizations alike.Manila, Philippines – AXA Philippines Chief Technology and Transformation Officer Carlos “Caloi” Santos was recently awarded as one of the top 100 tech leaders in ASEAN and Hong Kong by CIO 100 2022 at a special ceremony at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.“In these times of rapid change in our customers' needs, we see it fit for technology to adapt,” Santos shares. “This award recognizes how AXA Philippines values and works on its digital transformation, as well as how it leverages its capabilities to provide better service to its customers and be more attuned with their needs." AXA Philippines aims to meet the ever-changing needs of customers through constant digital improvement and enhancement. From the beginning of the AXA customer journey, the company offers an online Financial Needs Analysis (eFNA) service on its website via the Coach Finn platform alongside its traditional face-to-face FNA services. The company also developed the Emma by AXA PH app, which serves as every customer's digital insurance and wellness partner and is always available to help users with its wide range of services and resources.  AXA Philippines also has insurance products available for online purchase that not only meets one’s varying needs, but are also made easy to get while being affordable. Available via the website are Health Start Lite, which is a health insurance plan, and Goal Getter, a single-pay variable life insurance plan. For your protection, you can also purchase AXA’s travel insurance called Smart Traveller, as well as car insurance in the form of AXA’s Motor Car Insurance Online product. Customers can also set automated payment arrangements for their credit card, making transactions even more convenient.CIO 100 is regarded as a symbol of enterprise excellence. The award-giving body recognizes the top 100 senior technology leaders and teams that drive innovation, strengthen resiliency, and influence rapid development. It is one of the Global Award Programs featured by Foundry, a company that innovates with and generates data to drive demand for technology marketers worldwide. The winners for the CIO 100 2022 awards were announced at a live awards ceremony, which hosted over 200 executives from ASEAN, Hong Kong, and the rest of the region.For more information on AXA Philippines, visit www.axa.com.ph.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has approved effective December 28, 2022 the merger between AXA Philippines—one of the country’s leading insurance companies and a joint venture between the Metrobank Group, GT Capital, and the Paris-based AXA Group—and its former general insurance subsidiary Charter Ping An Insurance Corporation.The approved merger is the final step in the years-long process that began when AXA acquired Charter Ping An in 2016. With the merger, AXA fully absorbs Charter Ping An.Customers of Charter Ping An will not be affected by the merger, and all current policies will remain valid and are considered active and in force, subject to the relevant terms and conditions of their insurance policies. Other existing contracts with Charter Ping An that have not previously expired remain valid as well.With the merger, AXA Philippines is better able to protect all that matters to its customers by providing them with an enhanced and robust suite of insurance products: from life, health, savings and investments, to car and home insurance products, to name a few. Now, their customers can rely on only one partner for all their insurance needs. “Recent times have highlighted the importance of protecting what matters to us,” says AXA Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Bernardo Serrano Lopez. “Since we offer different types of insurance that cater to the varied protection needs of our customers, it will be much more convenient for our customers to find solutions for their insurance needs under the single AXA brand.” While the merger was initiated years ahead of the pandemic and other global issues, the need for easier and more convenient methods to acquire insurance became more urgent with the advent of these volatile times. “Convenience has become a vital necessity. Merging life and non-life insurance under a single brand takes that convenience a big step further and becomes another means for us to be of service to our customers,” concludes Serrano Lopez.  For more information, please refer to the FAQs page on the AXA Philippines website: https://www.axa.com.ph/multimedia/articles/faqs-on-the-axa-cpaic-merger

Manila, Philippines – AXA Philippines recently won Insurance Company of the Year – Life Insurance (Philippines) at The Asset Asian Awards (Triple A Awards) for the insurance leader’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives and product offerings in response to COVID-19.“As much as AXA Philippines is recognized for this top honor in Life Insurance, we are likewise committed to act for human progress by protecting what matters. We exercise being a good corporate citizen through our ESG efforts, not only to deliver customer value, but to create a positive impact on our world as well," shared Bernardo Serrano Lopez, AXA Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer. "We continue to be adaptive and responsive to the needs of the times; and this is what we would like to continue as a key player in the industry—to be our customers’ partner for whatever life brings.”AXA Philippines leveraged its digital capabilities and robust product suite to offer investment solutions that are responsive to its clients' changing needs in the thick of the pandemic. In 2020, AXA launched Health Care Access, a comprehensive and affordable healthcare plan for individuals and all types of families, which empowers Filipinos to take charge of their long-term well-being. This was at a critical point in the pandemic when people were seeing the significance of being prepared for the financial consequences of being ill.Another product that AXA Philippines expanded in response to the pandemic is its Global Health Access offering with the new Gold Lite Plus Plan. Global Health Access is a best-in-class health plan that covers not just minor and critical illnesses but also pandemic diseases such as COVID-19. This top-tier coverage allows policyholders to avail of up to Php100 million for inpatient and outpatient treatments of up to 15 visits per year at maximum of P1,000 per visit. This plan option also includes health screening or executive check-up coverage of up to Php20,000 per year. Customers can also use a portion of this benefit to get reimbursed for over-the-counter vitamins (up to Php2,500). Furthermore, this medical plan covers up to Php7,500 per night for inpatient daily accommodation fees in the Philippines or regular private room charges for international hospitalization.AXA Philippines has also launched sustainability education initiatives for its employees and clients, through partnerships with organizations like Oceanus, and by having the AXA Week for Good, where AXA employees volunteered in different activities like meal-packing sessions with Rise Against Hunger Philippines, solar light building with Liter of Light, and mangrove planting in Batangas and La Union. AXA Philippines has also provided insurance to MSMEs through partnerships with organizations like GrowSari, Cropital, GIZ, and Bixie. The Asset’s annual Triple A Awards is a prestigious award-giving body for the industry of banking, finance, treasury, and capital markets. The Asset launched the Triple A Insurance Awards concurrently with the Triple A Private Capital Awards to acknowledge industry leaders who have demonstrated the best service quality and best commitment to ESG while achieving solid business growth.AXA fulfills its duty to promote positive community change by developing innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges. For more information, visit www.axa.com.ph.

The sandwich generation – individuals who are taking care of both their aging parents and own family simultaneously – are often overwhelmed and pressured to provide for their family’s needs. This may lead them to neglect their own needs, leaving them no room for the most important person in their lives – themselves. Self-care is an integral part of maintaining our overall health. In a study, self-care is defined as the ability to care for oneself through awareness, self-control, and self-reliance in order to achieve, maintain, or promote optimal health and well-being.AXA Philippines, through the “Make Time for Me-Time” campaign launched late last year, aims to be a partner in addressing the challenges faced by the sandwich generation in achieving holistic health. As they say, “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” as such, here are some reasons why you need to put yourself first more this year: Managing how your emotions affect your loved ones.  Emotions are contagious. Your loved ones, especially people close to you, can sense it when you’re happy, upset, or angry—and your feelings may be transferred to them. Being healthy and happy on your own first is a way to share the positive energy. Radiating positive thoughts will help draw in good things to you and the people around you. Having mental space for happiness. When you are rested, you feel happier in doing fun activities, compared to when you’re overworked, anxious, or stressed. When you're burned out, you lose the mental capacity to be happy just being, let alone enjoy whatever other fun pastime you've planned. You must take breaks to make room for the things that are meant to be enjoyed.Treating resting as a necessity, not an option. When you live to please everyone around you, just to stay polite and avoid issues, you tend to sacrifice "me-time" to meet everyone's needs. When you push yourself past your limit, your body goes into survival mode, and burnout turns into a vicious spiral. You need rest and you must allow yourself time to recalibrate, reset, finding time to make sure that your focus is on yourself, even if this could be in the form of saying “no.”Keeping yourself healthy. Stress can be beneficial at times, but only when necessary.  Based on research conducted by associates from the University of California, some amounts of stress are good to push you to just to the level of optimal alertness and performance. But you need to know your limits. Working too hard causes too much stress, which can weaken your immune system and invite sickness and disease to come along. When you are sick, your body is telling you to rest—and no one can listen to that other than you."When we choose ourselves, we are often afraid to come off as selfish. However, we need to understand that we also need to take care of ourselves in order to care of our loved ones even better,” said AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar. “It is time to leave behind this guilt and commit to making time for me-time. We at AXA Philippines are here as your partner to support you in achieving holistic health this year and beyond.” To be worry-free in 2023, you need a partner who can help you feel safe. AXA Health Care Access is a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers all potential healthcare needs, from prevention and diagnosis to hospitalization and treatments. Select plans even include teleconsultation and mental health services, to truly cover your holistic well-being.AXA Philippines also has health plans that cover exams to diagnose critical illnesses that must be dealt with immediately. AXA's Health Start plan covers critical illnesses, including cancers that affect women. This is especially favorable for mothers because they can also choose to share the coverage with their child. AXA also has other health insurance options, such as the Health Start Lite plan. This already covers the top three critical illnesses, namely cancer, stroke, and heart attack, as well as nine minor critical illnesses to which women may be predisposed.AXA also offers Global Health Access, a health plan which offers best-in-class global health coverage of up to PHP 100 million and comprises the diagnosis and prevention of illnesses through extensive medical checks and outpatient benefits, cancer coverage, reimbursement supplements, as well as cash benefits for pregnant women.Taking care of your family entails taking care of yourself as well. Making time for me-time is an essential component of self-care and overall health and well-being. With an AXA health insurance plan, you can also be financially healthy and have an additional layer of security against health issues, allowing you to truly enjoy having time for yourself and your family as you move forward in life this year.For more information about AXA Philippines’ health offerings visit axa.com.ph/health-protection.

AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance companies, has partnered with online financial literacy platform Bixie to make insurance more accessible to women.As part of the partnership, AXA Philippines’ micro insurance products will be available via the Bixie app. Those interested to apply will go through a less complicated application process, which is one of the barriers for people to get insurance. The application involves less paperwork, making it easier to purchase insurance and get themselves protected. The partnership is a significant step to make insurance even more accessible to the everyday Filipino, especially women. “In AXA, we are committed towards reinforcing gender equality and helping drive financial inclusion. We join Bixie in its thrust of empowering women to know their worth as well as grow their worth,” said Rose Musico, Chief of General Insurance & Commercial Business.Bixie is a platform that connects women who want to invest with the knowledge, network, and tools they need to start investing. The company uses UBX, an open finance platform that provides an extensive network of financial institutions and embedded solutions. According to Bixie’s founder & CEO, Rosalia Gitau, “Bixie’s entire mission is to empower women to start managing and controlling their money and then to grow it. We want women at all socioeconomic levels to know that this is within their reach. What we love about this partnership with AXA is that they are providing microinsurance products that are so affordable and so accessible that it really is aligned with our mission.”AXA Philippines will also be providing microinsurance to 500 Filipina small and medium enterprise (SME) owners, who were selected through the Catholic Relief Services (CRS). This partnership is the culmination of a month-long, Philippine-based pilot project that AXA and Bixie did with Catholic Relief Services, a humanitarian agency in the United States, who invested in and insured 500 Filipina SME owners. These women were graduates of CRS’ savings and loan schemes and have already shown initiative in wanting to determine a better future for themselves.Get your AXA microinsurance via the Bixie app now (https://linktr.ee/mybixie).

A new year brings with it a lot of hope and new beginnings, which is why many set resolutions for the year ahead in terms of their physical, financial, professional, and other life goals. However, many struggle with seeing them through. According to a Forbes article, more than half of these resolutions will be abandoned just after one month. In case it has been a struggle a month or so into the year, we can try taking a different and more flexible approach by setting intentions instead of resolutions. These are like guides that could help condition our mindset and make our goals more flexible, helping take some of the pressure off. According to the 2022  Mind Health Study of leading insurance provider AXA Philippines, which examines the building blocks of mental wellbeing in Europe and Asia, one of the skills needed to achieve the top mental health state –  the state of flourishing - is to reflect on one’s meaning and purpose. Looking inwards and asking ourselves what really matters to us is a good starting point to having more meaning and purpose in our lives.AXA Philippines advocates protecting what matters and encourages everyone to take care and of their physical, mental, and financial health. Here are some intentions to consider for the new year for better holistic health:Be open to new experiences. What the recent years have taught us is the possibility of life being put to a halt at any moment. This year, why not try being on the lookout for new opportunities and experiences, especially as the world opens up more. Instead of saying, “I can’t,” try saying “why not,” so you can make the most of what life has to offer. Your next big adventure might just be waiting for you to make a move.Explore different fitness routines. In the same study, AXA shared that physical health behaviors can have a significant effect on a person’s mental health. Becoming fit is one of the most common new year’s resolutions, and possibly one of the hardest to sustain. Instead of aiming to lose a specific amount of weight, focus first on finding the right routine that you truly enjoy and can motivate you long enough to form a habit. In the end, having fun aids in consistency, so you can see the results of your hard work.Protect your financial and physical health. Having financial freedom is one way to ease your worries. This year, make an effort to be more mindful of your expenses and find ways to grow and protect your wealth. Instead of instant gratification, create a plan for big ticket items and start thinking of ways to save up for it. Aside from just saving and investing money, protect your health as well by getting an insurance plan that fits you and your family’s needs.Make mental health a priority. Just like physical health, mental health should also be treated with the same importance. In a 2021 survey conducted by health and fitness app REBEL, only 16% of the 500 Filipino respondents targeted to reduce stress and take care of their mental health. This 2023, aim to be more kind to yourself, promise to find more time to do something you love, seek help when needed, and overall aim to be more mindful of your mental health. Avoid burnout and learn to listen to your mind and body to know when you need a break and make time for some me-time.As we get ready to take on the year, remember to take care of yourself to better care for those who matter to you most. To care for your holistic wellbeing, AXA Philippines has multiple insurance plans available for added health protection and coverage. Health Care Access is a comprehensive health plan that takes care of your overall wellbeing - from prevention, diagnosis, hospitalization, and treatments, and even includes coverage for mental health services.AXA Philippines also has Health Start, which covers critical illnesses including cancers common to women such as breast and ovarian cancer, while also providing you with coverage for your child. Their Health Start Lite plan also covers the top three critical illnesses and starts at as low as Php 535 per month.Lastly, AXA’s Global Health Access has an extensive worldwide medical coverage for the prevention and diagnosis of critical illnesses. Since caring for yourself also means taking vitamins and supplements, you can have these reimbursed as part of your plan’s coverage, which is also applicable for pregnant women and their specific needs. For more information or to consult with an advisor, visit the AXA Philippines website www.axa.com.ph.

As leisurely travel awakens from its slumber, Filipinos are starting to seize the opportunity to see the world and enjoy vacations especially after being cooped up for a long period. According to data from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), the country's air passenger traffic volume in domestic and international flights increased more than fourfold to 13.2 million passengers in the first half of 2022, up from 2.95 million in the same period last year. The easing of travel restrictions means you can finally return to your favorite holiday destination or explore other locations for a new take on Christmas – a perfect gift for your loved ones, and a reward for yourself, too!So, gather your family and friends and prepare to go local or international, as you visit these holiday spots that will surely make you feel jolly: Enjoy a holiday beach getaway in Apulit Island, Palawan. If golden sunsets and tranquility is your idea of a perfect Christmas, then a trip to this luxurious island is most ideal for you. Choose your own relaxing room from among the 50 traditional water cottages, interact with wildlife, take in the breathtaking scenery, or test your strength by rappelling down the nearby 60-meter limestone cliff. This Christmas, enjoy peace and fun while being close to nature in this tropical paradise.Have an adventurous holiday in Samal Island. Escape the noise from the metro and enjoy a unique Christmas with loved ones by going to this island’s best places. Relax and unwind at Hagimit Falls or try an exhilarating hike at Mt. Puting Bato for a dazzling view of the island from above. Greet the Monfort Bat Cave’s nocturnal animals for the holidays as they emerge from their lair, or just bask in the sun and take a dip in the pristine waters of beaches and resorts.Chill and ski in Hokkaido, Japan. If you like adventures while enjoying the sight of immaculate snow fields, then reward yourself with a holiday trip to Hokkaido. Visit the snow-blanketed ski resorts and enjoy the local onsen and take a bath in the warm and therapeutic hot spring waters after a long day spent in the cold. You can also see the Sapporo White Illumination, in which over 500,000 light bulbs enlighten Christmas-themed decor in Odori Park and trees lining some of the capital's main streets.Go on a Christmas getaway to Iceland. Who doesn’t dream to see the majestic skies adorned with northern lights? Iceland offers the perfect place that gives-off a native Christmas spirit with its holiday markets, foods, and drinks, while glittering Christmas trees stand ground all over the place. It’s a dreamy winter wonderland, but if you like to take a break from the snow, take a dip in the warm waters of Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters.Visit Santa’s home at Rovaniemi - Lapland, Finland. If “North Pole” vibes is what you’re going for, then booking a flight to this destination can be the best Christmas idea for you. In the Arctic Circle of Finland, you can see Santa Claus everywhere. In his red and white suit, the Christmas icon can be followed through reindeer-filled forests, where his elves prepare the toys. Lapland, as one of the most magical destinations, has an amazing 'Santa Park' where you can frolic in the unending fields of snow, and can be a dreamland not just for kids, but for kids at heart as well.As you finish your holiday travel checklist, ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones wherever you go should be your main priority. Be worry-free before setting sail on your next Christmas adventure. AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar says, “Everyone deserves to experience the joy and magic of Christmas, regardless of the destination. We, at AXA Philippines, would like to help ensure that you are safe and secure as you travel around the world this holiday season, gathering new memories.”Get a travel insurance that offers a significant financial safety net and emergency assistance against travel hassles, so you can truly enjoy your holiday trip. Smart Traveller by AXA provides convenient and the best-in-class international and local travel protection so you and your loved ones can experience your Christmas adventures worry-free. It offers one of the highest coverage for medical and evacuation expenses, highest postponement limit, as well as 24/7 emergency assistance.With Smart Traveller, you can also get additional savings when purchasing for two or more people.  It is also Schengen-accredited, so your visa requirements are met. If you plan on taking multiple trips, AXA also offers annual plans for frequent travelers. Visit https://www.axa.com.ph/travel-insurance and discover what could make your holiday trips not just merry, but also safe and worry-free.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and it’s truly an exciting season as we all gather for annual get-togethers. But for some people, it’s also the busiest time of the year — perhaps a little bit too busy that they always forget how to take care of themselves.According to Frances Prescilla Cuevas, Chief Health Program Officer of the Department of Health’s National Mental Health Program, the holidays can bring about feelings of anxiety and depression or “holiday blues,” which may be temporary but should still be taken seriously. Some factors mentioned causing this can be the financial burden of gift giving or having to visit relatives.Those who have others depending on or have expectations from them are likely the ones to feel the extra pressure during the holidays, especially women belonging to the “sandwich generation” – the 30- to 45-year-olds taking care of both their growing kids and aging parents. On top of work and household responsibilities, we can only imagine how overwhelming their day-to-day could be in terms of responsibilities and finances let alone the holidays.In fact, The Parenting Index survey in Switzerland found that for Filipinos, societal and internal pressure comes from traditional, collectivist culture, strong family ties, and the demands of balancing childcare and work to help provide and care for the family. The survey also showed that most Filipinos live with extended families.[2] These pressures can leave no time for self-care and can cause a great amount of stress, which would lead to health problems.It is difficult for the women belonging to the sandwich generation to even begin thinking about taking care of themselves. Starting this holiday season, show your appreciation and remind the important women in your life to relax once in a while and if possible, provide the escape they may need yourself – treat them to a day out such as a spa day, shopping spree, or a vacation getaway – to thank them for their sacrifices throughout the year.However, you can also consider giving them holistic self-care by alleviating more of their long-term worries in the coming months and even years. A health insurance plan that can protect them and their loved ones against unexpected diseases and emergencies can benefit them financially and mentally in the long-term.For instance, AXA offers Health Care Access, a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers all possible healthcare needs from prevention care and diagnosis to hospitalization and treatments. Some plans even have teleconsultation and mental health services included — truly something worth having.Meanwhile, according to another report by Statista, the top illnesses that cause mortality in Filipinos and women are ischemic heart or coronary artery disease, cancer with the top being lung, breast, and colon, and pneumonia. With proper care and awareness, these life-threatening diseases can be prevented.AXA has health plans that cover exams to diagnose certain critical illnesses in order to be treated immediately. They also have more affordable health insurance offerings, such as their Health Start Lite plan, which costs as low as P535 a month — and this already covers the top three critical illnesses, namely cancer, stroke, and heart attack, and nine minor critical illnesses that women may also be susceptible to.For more coverage for your loved one, AXA’s Health Start plan has coverage on critical illnesses, specifically cancers, that are common to women. This is beneficial for mothers as they can have the option to share the coverage with their child.AXA also offers the Global Health Access plan which has best-in-class worldwide health coverage of up to PHP 100 million and includes the diagnosis and prevention of women-specific illnesses through extensive health screening and outpatient benefits, coverage against cancers, reimbursement supplements, and most importantly — cash benefits for pregnant women. Taking care of one’s health is an important part of self-care. Starting this holiday season, share this reminder to the important women in your life and encourage them to leave space for their own health and wellness, too. The simple act of gifting them a health insurance plan gives them security and peace of mind against health issues so they can focus on what matters most – enjoying quality time with their family and loved ones, and pursuing their personal passions."Every day we see a lot of people challenging others on how to take care of themselves, and this ironically resulted in giving more pressure for each of us,” said AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar."People don't need another preacher, but a partner. And AXA aims to be that partner to everyone. We truly understand the tension and struggles the sandwich generation are facing in achieving holistic health,” Villar continued.For more information on AXA’s health offerings, visit www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/global-health-access, www.axa.com.ph/healthstart, and www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/health-care-access.

When it comes to securing the future of your children, one of the best gifts you can give them is a good education. This is especially true for Filipino parents who believe that being able to send their children to top schools in the country or abroad is a legacy that they can leave to help them achieve their full potential in life But there’s no denying that costs for education continue to rise every year, especially with inflation at an all-time high. If you are wondering how much you need to save to send your child to their dream school, here are a few of the things you’ll need to consider:Tuition fees – while some colleges offer free tuition under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, many of the country’s top universities are private institutions whose tuition fees can cost PHP 100,000 or more, according to a recent report. You also need to account for inflation. According to CHED for AY 2021 - 2022, the national average rate of increase in tuition per unit is 4.74 percent, while the national average rate for other school fees is 10.61 percent per semester. For example, if a parent wants their six-year-old to study in a private university 10 years from now and their preferred university’s tuition is currently at PHP 110,000, it would then be around PHP 285,311 by the time they enroll. When compounded by the time the child reaches their 4th year in college, this would amount to PHP 379,749 per year. Residence and Transportation – If you are sending your child to a college abroad or far from where you live, you’ll need to consider their daily transportation allowance or even renting a dorm room or condo unit near where they’ll be studying. Dorm rent for sharing with three to four other housemates can go as high as P6,500 around the university belt area.Gadgets – In today’s digital age, students consider laptops and mobile phones as must-haves for learning. While it’s possible to get a good budget mobile phone for around PHP 10,000, laptops for online classes and other schoolwork can range from PHP 20,000 to 30,000. You’ll also need to allocate budget for your child’s Wi-Fi or data connection.Books and School Supplies – Finally, allot around PHP 20,000 to 25,000 annually for books and supplies such as notebooks, writing materials, and special equipment that your child will need every semester, as these have also been affected by the rising prices. Take into account as well that not every field has the same amount of expenses. For example, if you’re raising a future doctor, they will take longer to finish their pre-medical course and their medical school education, while science courses may have additional laboratory expenses.Putting all these costs together, you will easily end up with a budget of over six figures in a year – which is not a sum that can be saved quickly or easily for most. Furthermore, there are considerations that need to be factored in such as unplanned emergencies or in case you pass on. That’s why having a financial solution that protects you from life’s uncertainties is needed so you can focus on working your way to your goals such as securing your child a bright future. One of the ways to secure your child’s education is to get a comprehensive insurance plan like MyLifeChoice for Education, AXA Philippines’ most flexible insurance and investment plan designed to ensure your child’s education until college no matter what happens. MyLifeChoice empowers customers by enabling them to customize their own plan according to their unique needs and priorities, budget, desired payment term, and protection coverage. MyLifeChoice for Education ensures your child’s education through Bright Rider Plus, which provides guaranteed payouts in case of the insured’s untimely demise. These payouts will start immediately upon the passing of the insured and can help cover your child's education expenses until graduation. You can also personalize your protection coverage from 7x up to 25x of your basic annual premium.MyLifeChoice also includes waiver of premium and accident coverage benefits, which means that future payments are waived in case of disablement and cash benefits will be received for injuries due to accidents, respectively. Your plan can also be further enhanced with supplementary benefits to further strengthen your protection coverage depending on your current financial needs.Available in a 7-year payment term, MyLifeChoice for Education enables you to select from a range of professionally managed funds that are invested locally and globally to create a personalized portfolio that suits your investment profile. Your potential investment earnings can be added on top of your child’s education fund, which he or she can use for his or her future college expenses. To further support you in securing your child’s education, this policy includes a start-up bonus equivalent to 70% of your first-year basic annual premium in an AXA fund of your choice.“Education is something you can leave behind for your child that they can keep with them forever, but inflation coupled with rising prices of goods requires careful planning from parents now more than ever. Protecting your child’s education fund is possible with the right partner, such as AXA Philippines. With the help of MyLifeChoice for Education, seeing your child march onstage with their diploma need not be a pipe dream,” said Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer.For more information or get a personalized quote, visit axa.com.ph/mylifechoice/education.

Insurance leader AXA has appointed long-time industry trailblazer Bernardo Serrano López as President and Chief Executive Officer of its Philippines business. Serrano Lopez joins AXA Philippines following his successful tenure as CEO of AXA Colpatria, which he built to become the third largest insurance provider in Colombia. Serrano López is an industry veteran with more than 20 years of senior leadership experience. He began his journey with AXA in Chile in 1998 before he was appointed Regional CEO for AXA Latin America in 2001 and subsequently General Manager of AXA Spain in 2003. Between 2006 and 2011, Serrano López left AXA to set up his own successful company. In 2011, he rejoined AXA as CEO of AXA Brazil, overseeing the arrival of AXA in South America. He was later appointed as Deputy CEO of AXA Colpatria in 2014, where he led the company’s entry in Colombia. He was named CEO of AXA Colpatria in 2016. “With Bernardo’s extensive experience as a Chief Executive Officer in the insurance industry and his entrepreneurial spirit and track record of transforming businesses, he is the perfect lead for our strategic ambitions in the Philippines,” said AXA Asia and Africa CEO Gordon Watson. “AXA has been part of my professional life for more than two decades, and I am thrilled to join one of the fastest growing markets for insurance, here in the Philippines,” said Serrano López. “I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to AXA Philippines as we continue to work together to help our customers protect what matters most to them.” Serrano López has a Master of Business Administration Degree from IESE Business School in Barcelona, and a bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from the University of Navarra, Spain. He is fluent in many languages including English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.For more information on AXA Philippines and their products, visit their website at www.axa.com.ph.

AXA Philippines and M2 Insurance Agency Inc. (M2IA) inked a partnership last October 18, 2022 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in BGC to provide a comprehensive insurance program to Toyota vehicle owners and employees. (L-R) AXA Philippines Head of Dealers and Partnerships Johanna Janeo; AXA Philippines Chief of Commercial Business Rose Musico; AXA Philippines CEO In-Charge and Chief Financial Officer Gael Lapie; President of Toyota Pasong Tamo (TPT), Toyota Global City (TGC), Toyota Angeles, Pampanga (TAP), and M2IA Alex Macapagal; Toyota Pasong Tamo and Toyota Global City Executive Vice President & Chief Planning Officer Eiichi Fukuda; TPT, TGC, TAP, and M2IA Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Emmanuel Sarte; and Executive Vice President & Chief Finance Officer of TPT, TGC, TAP, and Chief Operating Officer of M2IA, Johann Sale.AXA Philippines has partnered with M2 Insurance Agency Inc. (M2IA), the general insurance arm of M2 Dealerships, to offer a comprehensive insurance program to Toyota vehicle owners and employees.Through the partnership, a three-year locked-in insurance program will be offered to those who will purchase their new vehicles through any of the following three Toyota dealers: Toyota Pasong Tamo, Toyota Global City, and Toyota Angeles, Pampanga; and to employees of the Macapagal Group of Companies.In addition, the M2IA group will also offer added benefits to customers under the FASTLANE program, which is the accreditation program of AXA Philippines that selects partner dealers to provide efficient claims servicing to its motor car policy clients. Benefits of this program include free pickup and delivery of the purchased vehicle due for repair from Toyota Global City and Toyota Pasong Tamo to any area within Metro Manila, free repair estimate, and free towing up to Php 5,000 per event.“We, at AXA, are excited to bring our innovative solutions and value-adding services to more consumers in the Philippines through this strategic partnership and synergize our approach beyond the usual car insurance business. As a company that values holistic wellness, we want to let Toyota customers enjoy peace of mind knowing they have a reliable partner in AXA, even for their vehicles,” shared Gael Lapie, CEO In-charge and Chief Financial Officer of AXA Philippines.M2IA also welcomed the chance to collaborate with one of the preferred insurance providers in the country. “Like AXA, we share the common goal of assuring our customers that we are 100% committed to delivering valuable services that will enhance their experience. Going above and beyond for them is the standard for us, so that they can always be reassured of their choice of vehicle and insurance provider,” shared Emmanuel Sarte, TPT, TGC, TAP, and M2IA Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer.For more information about AXA Philippines’ comprehensive car insurance, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/motor.

The pandemic has made many people think more about safety, both inside and outside their homes. Now that many motorists are back on the road, an important aspect we shouldn’t overlook is road safety. According to the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System, about 65,032 accidents with 337 deaths happened last 2020 in Metro Manila alone, highlighting the need to put more focus on staying accident-free while on the road.To help promote road safety and protection, AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, recently partnered with Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. to provide Comprehensive Car Insurance with preferential rates for their Honda SENSING-equipped cars to help drivers have a safer, worry-free drive.The new Honda SENSING-equipped vehicles are one of the first in the country that feature driver-assistive technology using a wide-angle camera and high-speed processing chip.AXA Comprehensive Car Insurance complements the innovative vehicles by providing first-class protection as you drive your new car. These customers can also enjoy special features such as easy claims processing and access to the AXA Rescue Line for free 24/7 emergency assistance, including police, fire, ambulance and roadside assistance available through the Emma by AXA PH app.“We’re thrilled to partner with Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. to help their customers feel even more safe and secure on the road with our Comprehensive Car Insurance. Owning a state-of-the-art vehicle deserves equally top-notch protection, which we are happy to provide for Honda SENSING car owners and their families,” said Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer.With AXA Comprehensive Car Insurance, car owners may also become part of AXA Motor Club, which offers exclusive VIP privileges and value-added services. Members will have access to a wide-range of services such as emergency towing, vehicle removal with a crane, minor repairs onsite, other auto-related personal assistance services, as well as alternative travel assistance, hotel referral and reservation assistance, and LTO registration assistance. Being an AXA Motor Club member is free. Membership is valid as long as AXA motor insurance policy is active, and is automatically extended every time the car insurance policy is renewed. For their part, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. President Masahiko Nakamura said, “We envision a collision-free society where everyone can share the road safely. With our partnership with AXA Philippines, we not only help motorists become road-ready, but we also accelerate their safety on the road by providing first-class driving experiences through AXA’s services.”To know more about AXA Comprehensive Car Insurance, visit axa.com.ph/motor, or download the free Emma by AXA PH app at axa.com.ph/emma

Since the start of the pandemic until the third quarter of 2021, the insurance industry has paid a total of P12.12 billion in claims relative to the COVID -19 virus. The huge amount should be a wake-up call for more Filipinos to take necessary steps in preparing financially for unforeseen medical emergencies. This was the urgent call made by Insurance Commission Commissioner Dennis Funa during the first-ever Ipon Conference, a hybrid event that aimed to help empower the education sector and augment their financial literacy with the theme, “What to Do in 2022.” Powered by AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, this hybrid event was organized with the help of the Department of Education (DepEd) in partnership with Empower and Transform, a company composed of a group of diverse professionals led by veteran journalist Salve Duplito that provides financial education and affordable financial advisory to Filipinos of all income levels here and abroad.Held at Tunasan National High School and simultaneously streamed on DepEd’s official Facebook page, the conference aimed to educate specific sectors of society for the advancement of financial education for Filipinos.During the event, AXA Philippines shared insights into the importance of investing in education as well as protecting our savings to ensure a more secure future. The company also talked about how unplanned medical expenses can potentially put a dent on our savings and derail our lives, especially at a time when the costs of medical care keep increasing year-on-year. From 2019, it estimates medical costs to increase yearly by 13%, and the numbers continue to climb.The insurance provider also shared how the financial industry is evolving quickly. With technology, collaborations, and medical advancement, Filipinos need not add to their loved ones’ suffering needlessly. There are financial tools that we can all use to ease these difficult moments of our lives, and that should be part of every Filipino’s financial education.With the help and guidance of AXA Philippines, DepEd and Empower and Transform also launched the first Ipon Ambassadors consisting of 17 personnel from the education sector across the country. The ambassadors will be given hands-on mentoring and coaching about savings, investments, and financial planning by professional financial advisors. Additionally, the ambassadors who achieve their cash and savings milestone will be given a cash grant ranging from P20,000 to  P50,000. AXA Philippines will also be helping the 17 ambassadors prepare for life and for health setbacks by giving them a free personal accident insurance plan.The event was also graced by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno, who emphasized that “a person’s financial health and wellness are closely related to their level of financial literacy. This is why BSP prioritizes financial education and literacy among its advocacies. Together with DepEd, we recognize the importance of financial education as one of the means to hone the financial skills of our teachers.”Philippine Stock Exchange Chief Operating Officer Atty. Roel Refran also shared, "When you talk about savings - assuming that you already have ventured into it- it's not a matter of how much we earn, but it's really a matter of how much we save. And if it's only sitting in our bank accounts, it's really not earning a market return. Instead, we should try to grow our savings by investing. With inflation, it's a wake-up call for us be smarter and to look for other opportunities and right financial tools to grow our ipon (savings)."Also present during the event were DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones, DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali, DepEd Undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio, DepEd Director III for External Partnership Central Office Edel Carag, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Atty. Emilio Benito Aquino, AXA Philippines Chief Distribution Officer Marie Raymundo, parenting advocates Joy and Edric Mendoza, and multi-awarded father and daughter tandem Ben and Izabella Lebig.

In life, support comes in different forms. It may be from our loved ones, from things that bring us comfort, and even from tools that make our lives easier. One such tool is Emma by AXA PH, an app by leading insurance provider AXA Philippines. Emma aims to be your dedicated partner in digital health and financial wellness. “Emma by AXA PH was designed to make every Filipino’s health and financial journey convenient and that much easier to achieve. It provides instant access to various health and financial products and services all in one app, always ready whenever they may be needed,” said Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines President and CEO. The award-winning app, which has won Mobile App of the Year at the Insurance Asia Awards 2021, has features that help policyholders conveniently update their plans to match their life goals and needs. Tasks like paying their premiums, topping-up their investment, viewing and changing their beneficiary, changing their payment method, filing of claims, and plan reinstatement, can all be done via Emma.Aside from empowering AXA customers to do their AXA transactions on the app safely and conveniently, the Emma by AXA PH app also offers access to its AXA Rescue Line feature. Rescue Line allows users, both AXA customers and non-customers alike, access to 24/7 emergency assistance, including police, fire, ambulance and roadside assistance. The app also allows the user to quickly contact their loved ones in case of emergencies, letting them list up to three emergency contacts on the app.Moreover, AXA customers can easily accomplish other essential transactions on the app, such as accessing their ePolicy, avail medical teleconsultation, and access their Global Health Access or Health Care Access eCard. Downloading the app is free, with a quick and simple registration process. But the app doesn’t only serve to benefit individual users, but the community as well. Just recently, AXA partnered with Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA) for the “Adopt a Mangrove Seedling” promo wherein for the first 2,000 app registrations, AXA Philippines, through AXA Hearts in Action, lets customers adopt a mangrove to help the environment. Watch out for more initiatives like this when you download the Emma by AXA PH app.Emma by AXA PH can be downloaded on the Google Play or App Store. It can also be accessed via web. For more information, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/emma.

Instilling financial literacy among our educators is the first step in creating a financially inclusive society for Filipinos. This was the main message during the first-ever Ipon Conference, a hybrid event that aimed to help empower the education sector and augment their financial literacy with the theme, “What to Do in 2022.” Powered by AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, this hybrid event was organized with the help of the Department of Education (DepEd) in partnership with Empower and Transform, a company composed of a group of diverse professionals led by veteran journalist Salve Duplito that provides financial education and affordable financial advisory to Filipinos of all income levels here and abroad.The event was graced by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno and DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones and was held at the Tunasan National High School in Muntinlupa City. It was also streamed on the official Facebook page of DepEd.During the event, AXA Philippines shared insights into the importance of investing in education as well as protecting our savings to ensure a more secure future. They also talked about how unplanned medical expenses can potentially put a dent on our savings and derail our lives, especially at a time when the costs of medical care keep increasing year-on-year.The insurance provider also discussed how many of us experienced medical emergencies, not just from COVID but from the most common serious illnesses. Since the start of the pandemic until the third quarter of 2021, the insurance industry has paid a total of P12.12 billion in claims relative to the COVID -19 virus alone. They advised how the best preparation is to choose to live healthy lives, both physically and mentally. With the right financial education, we can let the financial system help us be better prepared for whatever the future might unfold for us. “AXA Philippines is one with the vision of the Ipon Conference to see financially educated and future-proofed Filipinos. Our collaboration with different partners for the Ipon Conference is just one of the many ways AXA Philippines strives to help educate Filipinos on preparing for and protecting the future that they want for themselves and their loved ones. We look forward to more opportunities to be advocate financial education to Filipinos from all walks of life,” said AXA Philippines Chief Distribution Officer Marie Raymundo.“Most Filipinos are not prepared for the long-term effects of unplanned spending.  Through the Ipon Conference, we hope to change that mindset. It's all about starting on what we want to teach about financial literacy, and knowing and practicing it, so we can instill smart financial planning not only in the minds of our teachers but also our non-teaching personnel and students,” said DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali during the event as well.With the help and guidance of AXA Philippines, DepEd and Empower and Transform also launched the first Ipon Ambassadors consisting of 17 personnel from the education sector across the country. The ambassadors will be given hands-on mentoring and coaching about savings, investments, and financial planning by professional financial advisors. Additionally, the ambassadors who achieve their cash and savings milestone will be given a cash grant ranging from P20,000 to P50,000. AXA Philippines will also be helping the 17 ambassadors prepare for life and for health setbacks by giving them a free personal accident insurance plan.Commissioner Dennis Funa from the Insurance Commission also shared during the event that, “Instilling financial literacy among our educators is the first step and a very significant factor that we must consider if we are to create a financially inclusive society for the Filipino people. Insurance has been proven to be an effective mitigation mechanism and a tool in securing the future of its beneficiaries, and offers protections from uncertainties of life.” Also joining the event were DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones, DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali, DepEd Undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio, DepEd Director III for External Partnership Central Office Edel Carag, and Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Atty. Emilio Benito Aquino.Parenting advocates Joy and Edric Mendoza and multi-awarded father and daughter tandem Ben and Izabella Lebig also shared insights on how families can also teach their children about savings, investments, and smart financial planning.

Dally Dalisay, Senior Relationship Manager of AXA Philippines (left), receives a plaque of appreciation from Dr. Alexander Jaeger, Program Director of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit’s (GIZ) Regulatory Framework Promotion of Pro-poor Insurance Markets in Asia (GIZ RFPI Asia) (right).AXA Philippines was recently recognized by its partner Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) during the latter’s Regulatory Framework Promotion of Pro-poor Insurance Markets in Asia (RFPI) Closing Ceremony held at the New Coast Hotel in Manila.Through GIZ RFPI, AXA was lauded for its development of MicroBiz Protek Jr., a property microinsurance product designed for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier. It insures microenterprises against calamities and provides coverage for burglary and robbery. The product also offers emergency assistance available in the Emma by AXA PH mobile app, which gives users free access to services such as ambulance, roadside, fire, and police assistance, while policyholders can pay their premiums through the app, among other things. GIZ also praised AXA Philippines for its support of Mutual Exchange Forum on Inclusive Insurance (MEFIN) activities such as regional Public-Private Dialogues during the awards program.GIZ RFPI is a regional project that has been implemented in seven countries starting in 2013. It aims to develop direct climate risk insurance approaches for the poorest, poor, at-risk population and MSMEs in the partner countries including Indonesia, Vietnam and Philippines at the political-strategic level.The awardees were selected based on their contributions on regulatory framework improvements, business model development, capacity building, knowledge exchange, and in the strengthening of the MEFIN initiatives."Every Filipino entrepreneur deserves to be protected while taking care of their business," said Gael Lapie, CEO In-Charge and Chief Financial Officer of AXA Philippines. "This recognition reaffirms our commitment to making insurance and protection accessible for all, including the MSME owners." For more information about AXA Philippines, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/.

Revenge travel, or the increase of travel activity to make up for lost time during the height of the pandemic, is real and on the rise. In the Philippines, optimism for tourism is also continuously growing with the Department of Tourism reporting a 91.6 percent in tourism receipts from April to September 2021 versus the same period in 2020.As more countries ease restrictions and open borders, families can now take the opportunity to explore new places both internationally and locally after the long hold off given the pandemic. In fact, experts say that traveling is beneficial not just for adults but also for their child’s development. Here are some ways traveling can help your children later in life.Broadens perspectives. Being thrust into new environments is key to transformative learning, according to sociologist and education professor Jack Mezirow. This is when a learner’s assumptions and beliefs are challenged and transformed. When traveling, children are exposed to various cultures, languages, art, and more. They also get to interact with all kinds of people. This can help them grow into more open-minded individuals and improve cross-cultural understanding.Equips them with valuable life skills. During travels, children are put into various situations that allow them to develop and practice soft skills in a real-life setting such as proper communication, teamwork, problem solving, patience, and flexibility, among others.Ignites creativity and imagination. According to a leading child psychologist, your child’s “play” and “seek” brain systems, which were discovered by Professor Jaak Panksepp, a world-renowned neuroscientist at Washington State University, are activated when traveling. These are two of the seven emotional systems of your brain that are exercised when you interact and bond with your kids and when you explore new sights with them respectively. Traveling supports your child’s explorative and playful side which will make them more adept at exploring new ideas in the future.Strengthens family relationships. Nothing creates bonds more than having shared experiences as a family. Use travel as an opportunity to understand and connect with the whole family and collect memories that you can look back at for years to come.As traveling makes a comeback, we have to ensure our family’s safety wherever we go. Travelling with children can be quite tricky, but parents need not to worry as much if they have prepared thoroughly. AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer Nandy Villar shares, “Studies have shown that traveling is an important experience not only for learning and development but also for overall wellbeing and mental health. As a company that aims to promote wellbeing through its services, AXA Philippines wants to give its customers security and protection so they can remain worry-free throughout well-deserved vacations.”Getting travel insurance can provide a substantial financial safety net alongside emergency assistance as you show your children the world.  Smart Traveller by AXA provides convenient and best-in-class protection whether you are traveling locally or abroad so your family can make the most of their experience. It provides comprehensive medical benefits during your trip including covering hospitalizaiton costs, doctors’ professional fees and more, and has 24/7 travel and medical assistance. Moreover, it also helps manage travel inconveniences by protecting your luggage in case of loss or damage and covering refunds in case of trip cancellation and postponement for non-refundable expenses. Smart Traveller is also Schengen-accredited so you’re covered for your visa requirements. If you have multiple travel plans ahead,  AXA also offers annual plans and discounts for group travel.Visit https://www.axa.com.ph/travel-insurance and prepare for your next adventure!