Cocolife empowers Filipinos to rise above adversities

This year alone, the Philippines has suffered from the effects of the Taal Volcano eruption, COVID-19 pandemic, and the onslaught of Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses. Many have lost their jobs, homes and the loves of their lives—all in 2020. It’s a difficult year to recover from, especially since the majority of the tragedies are still fresh.

In a special Christmas tribute video, leading Filipino life insurance company Cocolife delivers an inspiring reminder that we shall rise up from 2020's hardships, move forward and live on.

The tribute video, produced by Siklab Studios, also features a Cocolife original theme song titled Tayo ay Pilipino with music and lyrics by Mike Shimamoto and Hero Mauricio. The video features stories of challenges, perseverance and compassion.

Feliciano and Adora Punzalan

Married couple Feliciano and Adora Punzalan were victims of the Taal Volcano eruption in January 2020. “Ang iniisip namin ay kung kami ay mag-evacuate, walang tatanggap sa amin dahil sa pandemic na yan,” Feliciano lamented.

In a cruel twist of fate, Feliciano and Adora were forced to evacuate the house they had lived in since 1987. The effects of the pandemic added to the burden of finding a new place to settle in.

Maria Teresita Ortiz

As of Dec. 10, the Philippines had a total of 444,164 COVID-19 cases. Maria Teresita Ortiz was one of the patients. As a result, she was forced to be apart from her five children to protect them from the virus.

“Hindi ko po nakikita yung mga anak ko, mahirap po,” Maria Teresita recalled. At that time, she felt helpless and alone while in quarantine.

Jason Rodelas

The pandemic also robbed Filipinos of job opportunities. It’s a time when the breadwinners’ ability to provide for their families is tested.

Jason Rodelas experienced pressure since he struggled to make ends meet as a working student. “Sobrang hirap talaga ngayon pagsabayin ang trabaho at schooling ko,” he admitted.

The current health crisis fast-tracked Jason’s urgency to finish his studies and help his family. At a young age, he faces fear and pressure in his capabilities to give his best for his family’s welfare.

The fate of next year remains uncertain, especially since the majority haven’t recovered from the crises of 2020. Despite the hardships, the Christmas tribute video empowers the community to move forward toward a brighter future.

In the spirit of bayanihan, Cocolife, through Cocolife Foundation, conducted relief operations for typhoon and COVID-19 victims and provided financial assistance.

“Sa panahon ngayon, alam kong hindi madali ang sitwasyon. Pero mas kailangan tayo ngayon ng ating mga kapwa Pilipino para sa ating mga serbisyo. Kaya sama-sama nating harapin ang bagong bukas,” said Cocolife senior VP and chief retail distribution officer Joseph Ronquillo.

As we celebrate the Christmas season, Cocolife remains faithful that Filipinos will emerge stronger. The insurance and financial company seeks refuge in the fact that amid all adversities—from the lyrics of the song itself—Tayo ay Pilipino.

“Ang hirap ng 2020, pero dito mo makikita na matatag ang Pilipino. Kahit anong mangyari, kakayanin natin,” said Cocolife president and CEO Atty. Martin Loon.

Cocolife is committed to providing Filipinos with an opportunity to live their dreams through financial freedom. The company offers a complete suite of protection products and services including life insurance, healthcare and asset management.

For more details about Cocolife and its products, visit www.cocolife.com.

Editor’s Note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring and educational content created by PhilSTAR L!fe in collaboration with brands like Cocolife.