2006 News Releases

Boston-based unit renamed, board membership changed

Boston – MFC Global Investment Management (“MFC Global”), the diversified institutional investment management group of Manulife Financial Corporation of Toronto (Manulife), has re-branded its Boston-based investment management unit and has renewed its commitment to increase assets in the U.S. institutional marketplace.

Effective October 1st, MFC Global’s Sovereign Asset Management LLC was renamed MFC Global Investment Management (U.S.), LLC (“MFC Global (U.S.)”).

In addition, Barry H. Evans has been named President, MFC Global (U.S.). Mr. Evans has previously served in a number of positions in his 20 years with the firm, most recently as Chief Fixed Income Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

Mark A. Schmeer continues as Chief Investment Officer of MFC Global (U.S.), and Timothy E. Keefe remains Chief Equity Officer.

“The future of investment management requires a global approach. As MFC Global (U.S.), we will work closely with our investment colleagues in Hong Kong, Tokyo, London, and Toronto to deliver in-depth, performance-driven strategies for our clients,” said Mr. Evans. “We are firmly committed to leveraging this expertise and to continuing the growth of the asset management business in the United States,” he added.

Additionally, five new members have joined the MFC Global (U.S.) board of directors. They are: Warren A. Thomson, Executive Vice President, MFC Global; Keith Walter, Senior Vice President, MFC Global; Norman Light, Senior Vice President, MFC Global; John T. Litzow, Senior Vice President, MFC Global (U.S.), and Mr. Schmeer. Mr. Thomson will also serve as Chairman of the board. Continuing board members are: Keith F. Hartstein, President and CEO of John Hancock Funds LLC, and Mr. Evans. Three board members have stepped down.

About MFC Global Investment Management (U.S.), LLC
MFC Global Investment Management (U.S.), LLC (“MFC Global (U.S.)”) is a Boston-based firm focused on investment management for institutional clients. MFC Global (U.S.) offers a diverse selection of actively managed equity and fixed income strategies across the investment spectrum. The firm’s strategies are managed through a disciplined investment process that seeks to provide consistently superior returns. With more than $25 billion in assets under management, MFC Global (U.S.) manages money for institutions such as public and corporate pension funds, mutual funds and private clients. MFC Global (U.S.) has six equity and four fixed income teams whose investment staff averages 19 years of investment experience.

MFC Global (U.S.) is a part of MFC Global Investment Management, the international investment brand of Manulife Financial.

About MFC Global Investment Management
MFC Global Investment Management is the diversified investment management group of Manulife Financial, with investment offices in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, and throughout Southeast Asia. MFC Global has more than 100 years of experience managing portfolios for the Manufacturers Life Insurance Company, John Hancock Life Insurance Company, and other major clients. With more than US$200 billion in assets under management, MFC Global Investment Management is a leading global investment management group. Additional information about MFC Global Investment Management may be found at www.mfcglobal.com.

About Manulife Financial
Manulife Financial is a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 19 countries and territories worldwide. Operating as Manulife Financial in Canada and Asia, and primarily through John Hancock in the United States, the Company offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Manulife Financial Corporation trades as ‘MFC’ on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under ‘0945’ on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.

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Contact:
Beth McGoldrick
(617) 663-4751
bmcgoldrick@jhancock.com