Sun Life Survey: Filipinos show rising financial confidence, but long-term challenges persist

　　MANILA, PH – August 2025 – Sun Life Asia’s latest Financial Resilience Index reveals a complex yet  hopeful picture of Filipino financial behavior, showing increased short-term confidence but persistent  challenges in long-term planning and resilience.  

　　The study, conducted across six Asian marketsincluding the Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore,  Indonesia, and Vietnam, surveyed 1,000 Filipino respondents between April and May 2025. 

　　Financial Confidence on the Rise but Long-Term Struggles Persist 

　　The study found that 66% of Filipinos now feel financially secure, up from 45% in the previous wave .  Confidence in managing monthly finances also rose from 57% to 69%， suggesting improved short-term  financial resilience. 

　　However, long-term financial confidence dipped, with only 64% feeling capable of meeting future goals,  down from 72%. One in three Filipinos say that, in case of income loss or illness, they would not be able to  sustain themselves for more than three months without external support. Younger respondents based in  rural areas are especially vulnerable, with limited emergency savings and lower access to financial tools. 

　　Immediate Needs Take Priority when Inflation Hits Hard 

　　Filipinos are prioritizing day-to-day budgeting (61%) and building emergency funds (45%)， while long-term  goals like retirement and home ownership have become less urgent. This shift underscores the impact of  inflation and cost-of-living concerns on financial planning。

　　Nearly all respondents reported that inflation has affected their ability to cover monthly expenses. The  biggest cost increases were seen in food, energy, health, and transportation. In response, many are  cutting non-essential spending and educating themselves about personal finance. 

　　Financial Literacy Shows Promise as Sources of Advice Evolve 

　　While banks and family remain the top sources of financial guidance, social media and AI tools are gaining  popularity, especially among younger and urban consumers. Trust in banks remains high but has slightly  declined, and cost remains a barrier to seeking professional advice. 

　　Despite this, most Filipinos rate their financial literacy as “fair” or better, and survey results show a strong  understanding of basic financial concepts. It also reveals that literacy improves with age and is higher  among urban residents, though gaps remain in rural areas. Additionally, 67% of respondents save or  invest at least 10% of their income, and 78% review their investments monthly or more often. These  behaviors indicate a growing commitment to financial discipline. 

　　“These findings highlight both the resilience and the vulnerability of Filipino households,” said Benedict  Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “We are encouraged by the growing financial  confidence and commitment to saving, but it’s clear that more support is needed to help families plan for  the long term. Sun Life remains committed to empowering Filipinos through financial education,  innovative products, and community engagement。” 

　　Learn more about Sun Life by visiting www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines  on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

　　View the Philippines findings of the Sun Life Asia Financial Resilience Index here:  www.sunlife.co/financialresiliencereport-2025