Etiqa Philippines Unveils Takaful, an Ethical and Inclusive Protection Plan

What if your insurance didn’t just protect you—but also upheld your values and helped others in need?

In a grand evening filled with purpose and promise, Etiqa Philippines formally launched Takaful, an ethical, Shariah-compliant insurance solution that redefines how Filipinos can protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Held last July 10, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, the event marked a bold step forward for financial inclusivity in the country.

The launch brought together a powerhouse of leaders from across ASEAN and the Philippine insurance sector. Distinguished guests included Etiqa International Holdings Chairperson Fauziah Hisham; Mohd Din Merican, Chairman of the Etiqa Philippines Board; Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Anthony; Etiqa Group CEO Kamaludin Ahmad; Etiqa Philippines President and CEO Anthony Lou Bernabe; and Insurance Commission Deputy Commissioner Atty. Jayson P. Lopez.

But what exactly is Takaful, and why does it matter?

A More Ethical Way to Protect What Matters

Takaful is a unique form of mutual insurance rooted in Islamic finance principles. Rather than operating for profit, it centers on cooperation, shared responsibility, and mutual aid. Participants contribute to a communal fund, which is then used to support fellow members in times of need—whether due to accident, disability, or other covered events. Any excess surplus is equitably distributed among contributors, not corporate shareholders.

Importantly, Takaful investments are made in sectors that align with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values. That means zero exposure to industries like gambling, alcohol, or tobacco—making it an attractive option for Filipinos seeking ethical alternatives to traditional insurance products.

“This is a meaningful milestone, not just for Etiqa, but for the entire Philippine insurance industry,” shared Etiqa Philippines CEO Anthony Lou Bernabe during his keynote speech. “With Takaful, we’re introducing a more inclusive, ethical, and affordable way to protect Filipino lives. It’s not just financial coverage—it’s financial dignity.”

Inclusive, Accessible, and Shariah-Compliant

The first product under this new banner, Takaful Personal Accident, is now officially approved by regulators and available to the public. It provides straightforward, affordable coverage for accidental death, permanent disability, medical expenses, and hospital cash allowance—making it a compelling choice for both first-time insurance buyers and those seeking Shariah-compliant solutions.

The plan’s simplicity and affordability reflect Etiqa’s vision to make insurance more accessible—especially to underserved communities that have long been excluded from financial protection due to cost, complexity, or cultural concerns.

Building a Takaful Future in the Philippines

And this is just the beginning. Etiqa Philippines has confirmed that additional Takaful Life and Non-Life products are currently in development, with full rollout expected through 2026. These future offerings aim to address broader protection needs while staying true to the core principles of mutual care and ethical investment.

Etiqa’s foray into the Philippine Takaful space isn’t just a product launch—it’s the continuation of a legacy. The company has over 20 years of experience in pioneering Takaful across ASEAN, especially in Malaysia and Singapore, where it has already helped millions secure protection rooted in compassion and community.

A Call to Collaborate

Etiqa is also extending an open invitation to its distribution partners—brokers, agents, and business leaders—to join the movement and help bring this new kind of insurance to more Filipino households. As financial protection continues to evolve, collaboration is key to expanding reach and making Takaful a household name across the archipelago.

The company’s broader portfolio includes both Life and Non-Life insurance, all designed with a shared mission: to make the world a better place by providing protection with heart.