IN THE Philippines, sickness often comes with a heavy price. Families rally on Facebook for donations, tap into whatever savings they have, or borrow from kin to pay hospital bills. Despite PhilHealth and HMO coverage, almost half of healthcare spending still comes directly from their own pockets.
It’s a reality that Nicasio “Ninoy” Rollan III, president and CEO of Oona Insurance Philippines, knows all too well.
“There are still only a few players in healthcare insurance, and while Filipinos are becoming more health-conscious, many continue to depend on relatives or personal networks for support instead of securing protection through insurance,” Rollan said.
This compelling fact urged Oona Insurance to launch Global Shield and Purple Shield, two flagship health insurance plans designed to give Filipino families a stronger shield against medical uncertainty.
The launch, held at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City, resonated the clamor for a flexible health coverage that’s not only affordable but gives one the leeway to choose their healthcare provider.
One-size-fits-all
Oona’s latest health plans are designed to move Filipinos beyond the limits of traditional HMOs, which often tie patients to specific hospitals and doctors.
Purple Shield provides up to P5 million in coverage for families seeking affordable yet comprehensive protection close to home, with benefits that include mental health support, vaccinations, and preventive check-ups. Customers can also opt for co-payments to enjoy lower premiums.
For those who need care extending outside the Philippines, Global Shield offers up to $2 million in worldwide coverage. Tailored for globally mobile Filipinos, it grants access to international hospitals and specialists, elective procedures in Singapore, and even comes with built-in travel insurance for frequent flyers.
“This allows you to choose your doctor, choose your hospital, in not so many words, personalization. That’s what we’re offering,” Rollan explained.
Rollan is candid about why Filipinos should secure coverage sooner rather than later. For him, health insurance is not only a financial decision, but a gift of security.
Closing the gap
The timing couldn’t be more urgent, according to Oona Group chief underwriting officer Manik Bucha, noting that medical inflation in the Philippines is running at nearly 20 percent a year, compared to wage growth of only 3 to 4 percent.
“The limitations of PhilHealth and HMOs are pushing families to pay more out of pocket. Our products are meant to close that gap,” he said, noting that Oona’s data also shows that 90 percent of Filipinos remain underinsured, making serious illness not only a health crisis but a financial one.
For families weary of paperwork and long waits, Oona offers something fresh – a digital-first platform. Customers can get instant quotes, same-day policy issuance for eligible applicants, paperless onboarding with e-signatures, and even real-time claim tracking.
On the other hand, overseas claims are fully digital, making reimbursements faster and more transparent. Through partnerships with MediLink and Doctor Anywhere, Oona members enjoy cashless access to more than 650 hospitals nationwide and 24/7 teleconsultation with 750 doctors.
Health protection
Oona’s founder and group CEO Abhishek Bhatia said the launch is about setting a higher standard.
“The Philippines is ready for a new standard in health protection. Rising medical costs and changing lifestyles demand solutions that go beyond the basics, offering quality, choice, and confidence,” he said.
Since acquiring MAPFRE Insurance in 2023, Oona has quickly become one of the fastest-growing insurers in the country, outpacing industry growth by double in 2025. Backed by global private equity firm Warburg Pincus, the company operates in both the Philippines and Indonesia and is set on expanding further in Southeast Asia.
Oona’s new offering is about giving Filipino families the freedom to live without the constant worry of “what if.”
“We will continue to listen, innovate, and build additional packages for Filipinos. Protection isn’t just about today – it’s about building peace of mind for the years to come,” Rollan said.
For families who have long relied on community fundraising during medical emergencies, Global Shield and Purple Shield represent the promise of protection that is flexible, comprehensive and truly family-first.
