2009 News Releases

Manulife staff around the world send donations and messages of support

Manila – Manulife staff around the world are offering immediate relief, donations and messages of support to aid those affected by Typhoon Ketsana.

“Our thoughts go out to those who have been affected by the floods,” said Robert A. Cook, Senior Executive Vice President and General Manager, Asia. “As we assess the extent of the needs of our staff, agents and their communities, we are offering immediate financial assistance and food and shelter. Many of our employees around the world have a strong connection to the Philippines, so we are hoping to do as much as possible to assist.”

Most of Manulife’s 1,700 staff and 1,200 agents in the Philippines have been accounted for, although communications problems are hampering contact in some cases. Several dozen have lost property and homes to flooding. Employees who are able to have been collecting food and money and distributing it in the community.

Company offices are fully operational. In Manila’s Chinatown district of Binondo, the branch most heavily damaged, electricity was out late Tuesday as a generator was prepared, although employees were still able to use telephones and help customers pay premiums. Manulife policyholders in designated areas will be eligible for an extended policy payment grace period.

“Typhoon Ketsana devastated our communities but we intend to help our customers, staff, agents and their families and communities rebuild their lives as quickly as possible,” said Manulife Philippines President and CEO Carl Gustini. “We have a long 100-year history in the Philippines, and we won’t let our communities down now in their time of need.”

Manulife policyholders with any typhoon related claim issues can contact their agent directly or call (02) 844-7000 in Metro Manila. Clients based in the provinces may call toll free at 1-800-1-888-MANU (6268).

About Manulife Financial
Manulife Financial is a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 22 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$421 billion (US$362 billion) as at June 30, 2009.

Manulife Financial Corporation trades as ‘MFC’ on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under ‘945’ on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.

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Media Contact:

Philippines Lils Liwanag Manulife Philippines +63 884-5416 lils_liwanag@manulife.com	Regional Juliana Gittler Manulife Financial +852 2202 1501 juliana_gittler@manulife.com