2004 News Releases

Company sponsors Antique Tram Ride and pledges to match funds raised

Hong Kong– As the principal sponsor of “Charity On The Ride”, organised by the Hong Kong Red Cross and Radio Television Hong Kong today (Friday, August 27, 2004), Manulife (International) Limited (MIL) will be pledging not only a monetary contribution but also volunteers to help in this donation “drive”.

It is estimated that more than 15,000 public and private vehicles will join the “Hong Kong Red Cross Charity Fleet” to collect money from passengers in support of the local and international humanitarian services of the Hong Kong Red Cross, which helps the sick and the needy in the community.

Manulife’s support for the event includes participation in a matching-donation scheme: Hong Kong Tramways Limited is to make available its antique tram for public use between 12 noon to 6.30 p.m. — and passengers will be asked to make a contribution to the donation box aboard the tram, which Manulife will then match. The company has also volunteered to get its staff to decorate the “Charity Tram” so as to make it even more eye-catching.

“As a caring company serving Hong Kong for more than 100 years, Manulife has always been committed to participating in various charitable events to help those in need,” said Michael Huddart, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Hong Kong, MIL. “Manulife is delighted to render full support to this exciting yet meaningful activity. All of our staff, insurance and financial advisors are being encouraged to participate in this charity ride and play their part in building a loving and caring community.”

Manulife has been partnering with the Hong Kong Red Cross for the past 25 years in its corporate blood-donation programme. It has also sponsored a Chinese composition contest to help promote the giving of blood.

“We are delighted to have Manulife as our principal sponsor,” said Chan Kai Ming, Secretary General of the Hong Kong Red Cross. “For many, many years, Manulife has been standing side by side with us in the promotion of love and care in the community, bringing hope to the sick and the needy. We are very grateful for their unceasing support.”

About Hong Kong Red Cross
The Hong Kong Red Cross was established in 1950 as a branch of the British Red Cross Society. Since July 1, 1997, upon the return of Hong Kong's sovereignty to China, the Hong Kong Red Cross has changed its affiliation to become a highly autonomous branch of the Red Cross Society of China. Currently there are 181 countries with Red Cross or Red Crescent presence. The Hong Kong Red Cross advocates the spirit of humanity, the belief in and respect for the intrinsic value of human life, and the dignity of individuals, without regard to their race, belief or affiliation. Currently it provides the community with blood transfusion service, special education and rehabilitation services, international and relief services, health and care services and youth and voluntary services.

About Manulife (International) Limited
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. Funds under management by Manulife Financial and its subsidiaries were Cdn$360 billion (approximately HK$2,096 billion) as at June 30, 2004.

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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For more information, please contact:
Helena Lee / Jeanie Ho
Manulife (International) Limited
Tel: 2202 1050 / 2510 3191
Fax: 2234 6875
Email: helena_lee@manulife.com
jeanie_ho@manulife.com