2009 News Releases

Typhoon Morakot devastated southern Taiwan Monday, bringing torrential rain, deadly mudslides and causing severe damage. Dozens of people have been confirmed killed, with many more injured and unaccounted for. Parts of the hardest-hit areas were without water, power and communication and many people were left homeless after mud slides wiped out houses and communities.

In response, Manulife Taiwan has initiated relief procedures and formed a Disaster Action Team to provide immediate service and assistance to customers affected by the typhoon. For families of customers killed by Typhoon Morakot, Manulife will provide prioritized claims and emergency cash aid.

Clients in the hardest-hit areas can apply for a payment mitigation to delay premium payments for up to 6 months while rebuilding damaged homes, said Mark O’Dell, General Manager and CEO of Manulife Taiwan. Eligible clients with typhoon damages in the counties Ping-Tung, Kao Hsiung, TaiTung, Tainan, Chia-Yi, and NanTou with premiums due between June 1 and Oct. 31 can apply for a 6-month payment mitigation. In addition, Manulife agents will contact policyholders by phone or in person to see how they can help and to assist them in receiving a prioritized claim if necessary.

“Manulife wishes to offer our sincerest condolences to those who lost family and their homes in this tragedy,” O’Dell said. “We hope to be as helpful as possible to assist our clients through this difficult time.”

Manulife policyholders with any typhoon-related claim issues can contact their agent directly or call toll free: 0800-008-838.

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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Suzanne Lee
Manulife Taiwan
Tel. 02-2757-2870
suzanne_lee@manulife.com

Stephanie Wang
Manulife Taiwan
Tel. 02-2757-2874
stephanie_ty_wang@manulife.com