FWD backs women leaders, unveils health plans

Leadership training, cross-border care highlight insurer's Asia strategy

FWD backs women leaders, unveils health plans

Life & Health

By Roxanne Libatique

FWD Life Insurance has rolled out leadership and health protection initiatives in the Philippines and Hong Kong.

The initiatives aim to address evolving needs in workforce development and regional healthcare access within Asia.

Program targets advancement of women in insurance sector

FWD Philippines recently concluded the inaugural run of its women’s leadership initiative, known as the Forging Women’s Development in Leadership, Innovation, and Future Excellence (FWD LIFE).

The initiative is designed to provide professional development support for women working in insurance and is the first of its kind in the Philippines insurance market.

Delivered in collaboration with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), the program provides training on leadership strategy, network-building, and purpose-driven management.

The initiative aligns with broader industry efforts to improve gender representation in executive positions. A 2024 report by the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment found that women occupy 40% of executive roles in publicly traded firms, with growth in operational leadership – a key route to senior management.

FWD Philippines chief people and culture officer Vita Guillen emphasised the organisation’s intent behind the program.

“As the insurer of the next generation, FWD believes in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for everyone. 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. We look forward to the continued achievements of our women leaders as they continue to celebrate living and help shape a more inclusive future for the local insurance industry,” she said.

Marian Lleander, program director at AIM, added that the school had never before developed a tailored leadership curriculum for a corporate client.

“AIM’s partnership with FWD is a milestone as this is the first time that we have customised the program for a specific organisation. Commissioning this program speaks of FWD’s sincere commitment to the growth and empowerment of their female leaders and we hope this will serve as a model for other companies,” she said.

Hong Kong division expands medical insurance across Greater Bay Area

Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, FWD has introduced new medical insurance solutions to address increasing demand for health services that span multiple jurisdictions within the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

The two new plans – GBAssure Outpatient Plan and NobleCare Premier Medical Plan – aim to provide coverage for residents frequently crossing 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 includes an option for family-wide coverage under one policy, requires no health screening, and can be managed via FWD’s digital services platform.

The NobleCare Premier Medical Plan, targeted at high-net-worth policyholders, offers lifetime international health coverage with multiple deductible options and flexible treatment zones. Features include full 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 and managing director of Greater China, said the launch addresses healthcare demand in the GBA.

FWD is also enhancing its long-standing partnership with HKSH Medical Group to support cancer patients. The collaboration now includes remote consultations between doctors in Hong Kong and designated hospitals in mainland China, as well as case management provided by specialized nursing staff.

Dr Walton Li, chief executive of HKSH Medical Group, cited recent investments in technology at its cancer treatment centres in Hong Kong, such as proton therapy, as enablers of cross-border clinical support.

FWD’s internal claims data from 2024 showed that 71% of its critical illness claims were related to cancer, prompting the expansion. Additional offerings include second-opinion consultations, personalised treatment roadmaps, and nutritional guidance.

Dr Joseph Chan, chief medical officer at HKSH, said a nurse coordinator will support each cross-border patient throughout their treatment journey.

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