Independence as the new legacy
2026 Manulife Asia Care Survey
As Filipinos prepare for longer lives, many are redefining what it means to leave a lasting legacy. Rather than focusing solely on passing down wealth or assets, more people are placing greater value on maintaining their independence, financial freedom, and quality of life for as long as possible. The 2026 Manulife Asia Care Survey explores how attitudes toward aging, caregiving, health, and financial preparedness are evolving—and what these shifts mean for individuals, families, and society. Download the report here or browse through the key insights below.
The aspiration of independence
For generations, legacy has often been measured by what people leave behind for their loved ones. Today, Filipinos are redefining that idea. The 2026 Manulife Asia Care Survey found that many now place greater importance on maintaining their independence, financial freedom, and quality of life as they age, viewing self-reliance as one of the most meaningful gifts they can leave their families.
88% of Filipinos agree that their independence and financial freedom are the inheritance they most want to leave their families. Among those aged 25 to 34, this rises to 95%, suggesting that younger generations are increasingly prioritizing self-sufficiency and dignity in later life.
What does independence mean to Filipinos when it comes to living longer lives?
Independence begins with health. 9 in 10 Filipinos believe preventive care can help them stay independent for longer. What are they doing?
The findings suggest that Filipinos are placing greater value on remaining healthy, capable, and financially secure throughout their lives than on building wealth solely to pass on to future generations. While the desire for independence is clear, realizing that aspiration requires preparation, support systems, and long-term planning. Find out how they’re dealing with these challenges through the next tab.
The challenges to independence
Filipinos increasingly aspire to remain independent throughout their later years. Yet for many, that aspiration is being tested by the realities of caregiving and family financial responsibilities. From caring for aging parents to supporting children and loved ones, many are balancing competing demands that can make long-term planning, self-care, and financial preparedness more difficult.
group experiences some of the greatest pressures when it comes to building long-term independence.
Supporting figures:
67% Provide care to a family member.
32 hours Average caregiving time per week.
1.4x Higher caregiving prevalence versus the Asia average.
Caregiving affects more than schedules. It influences health, finances, and the ability to prepare for the future.
Family caregiving responsibilities are significantly higher than the regional average, making caregiving a defining reality for many Filipino households.
Meet the Sandwich Generation
For many Filipinos, planning for their own future is happening alongside the responsibility of caring for loved ones. Among respondents aged 25 to 34, 22% belong to the sandwich generation—providing support to both parents and children at the same time. The findings suggest that this group experiences some of the greatest pressures when it comes to building long-term independence.
More than caregiving
For many Filipinos, caregiving is only one part of the equation. Financial support for family members is equally common, creating competing demands on income, savings, and long-term financial planning.
Supporting figure: 2 in 3 Filipinos provide financial support to family members.
The survey shows that independence and caregiving are not opposing ideas. For many Filipinos, they are deeply connected. The desire to remain independent later in life is often shaped by today's responsibilities to parents, children, and loved ones. Understanding and supporting the needs of caregivers—particularly the sandwich generation—may be key to helping more Filipinos achieve the future they aspire to. As Filipinos navigate the responsibilities of caring for others, many are taking steps to safeguard their own independence. Discover how they are preparing for the financial and care realities of longer lives in the next tab.
Planning for independence
The survey reveals that Filipinos are not simply thinking about longevity—they are actively planning for it. Having witnessed the realities of caregiving and growing older through their own experiences and those of their loved ones, many are taking a more intentional approach to health, retirement readiness, and financial security. Their goal is clear: to enjoy longer lives while maintaining independence and reducing the burden on their families.
Independence comes with a price tag
The survey reveals that Filipinos are not simply thinking about longevity—they are actively planning for it. Having witnessed the realities of caregiving and growing older through their own experiences and those of their loved ones, many are taking a more intentional approach to health, retirement readiness, and financial security. Their goal is clear: to enjoy longer lives while maintaining independence and reducing the burden on their families.
How are Filipinos planning to fund their retirement and care needs?
Breaking the cycle
The survey reveals a powerful shift in mindset. While family remains central to Filipino culture, many respondents do not want to rely entirely on their children for future care or financial support.
Only 21% expect their children to be their primary source of care funding in later life.
This reflects a growing desire to prepare independently, so that future generations can pursue their own goals without carrying the full financial burden of supporting aging family members.
From wealth accumulation to income generation
The survey suggests that Filipinos are increasingly focused not only on building assets, but on ensuring those assets can support them throughout a longer retirement.
Filipinos are taking steps to adapt saving and investing approach*
*Among those who have started saving and investing in stocks, bond, insurance, etc. to ensure their financial well-being
As the concept of independence evolves, so too does retirement planning. Filipinos are looking beyond traditional savings approaches and seeking strategies that can provide sustainable income through their later years.
Building a longer, more independent life
The survey points to several actions that can help individuals prepare for longer lives and greater self-reliance.
Prioritize Preventive Health - Healthy habits today can help preserve independence tomorrow.
Build an Independence Fund - Prepare for future care and healthcare expenses.
Create Multiple Income Streams - Think beyond retirement savings alone.
Start Family Conversations Early - Discuss care expectations before they become urgent.
Support Caregivers - Helping today's caregivers strengthens future family resilience.
The 2026 Manulife Asia Care Survey tells the story of a nation redefining what it means to live well and age well. Filipinos increasingly see independence as the legacy they hope to leave behind. Yet achieving that independence is shaped by the realities of caregiving, family responsibilities, and rising care costs. In response, many are taking a more proactive approach to their health, finances, and long-term planning. As people live longer, the challenge is no longer simply adding years to life—it is ensuring those years are lived with dignity, purpose, and independence.