Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers (CLIB) has long been at the forefront of championing Filipinos from all walks of life. It does so through revolutionary and accessible insurance products. This commitment aligns with CLIB’s overarching goal of empowering individuals and communities with the tools they need to navigate life’s uncertainties.
Indeed, this dedication came through in the aftermath of a devastating fire in Brgy. 310, C.M. Recto, Sta. Cruz, Manila. There, CLIB extended assistance to those who needed it most.
Specifically, on January 31, an overheated computer from one of the houses caused a fire to break out in the close-knit community. The fire affected 437 households in the area. As a result, the affected residents continue to stay in an evacuation center at the barangay’s covered court.
Among the many fire-stricken families were 44 families who hold Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMax. This sachet insurance product is underwritten by Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation (PISC). The company launched it through Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers (CLIB). Through this product, individuals aged 7 to 70 can enjoy coverage up to PHP 150,000 for accidents, sickness, and fire/lightning incidents for as low as PHP 50.
“Helping Filipinos is at the very core of our institution. Aside from empowering Filipinos to be financially included, we make sure that we offer affordable products that will provide security to individuals and communities. That way, we can protect lives and serve as a glimmer of hope through CLIB even on dark days,” says Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO.
Delivering Aid Through the Kumustahan Initiative
Soon after, Cebuana Lhuillier visited the evacuation center as part of its prompt Kumustahan initiative. The company distributed insurance claims to its policy holders, along with bundles of relief goods to help them recover from the tragedy. The fire-stricken residents of Brgy. 310 received financial aid of up to PHP 50,000.
“CLIB remains steadfast in supporting Filipinos’ welfare, particularly in the aftermath of fire calamities. Through our dedicated Kumustahan initiative, we swiftly extend targeted assistance to communities affected by the devastating impact of unforeseen fires. We believe that empowering individuals with insurance coverage for fire incidents ensures that even in the face of adversity, we stand as a light of support and hope for our valued policyholders,” said Anthony Bernabe, CLIB General Manager and Group Head.
Recipients Share Their Gratitude
Two recipients shared their reactions. For example, Rene Rose P. Guillano, said, “Malaking tulong na ‘to samin kasi makakabili na rin kami ng mga gamit kahit papaano, lalo na para sa anak ko, ubos kasi gamit niya eh. Malaking tulong na to kasi ‘di mo naman aakalain na mabibigyan ka ng pera ng Cebuana Lhuillier. Akala mo ganyan lang, insurance lang. ‘Yung iba ayaw nila maginsure kasi wala namang mangyayari. Ako nagiinsure talaga ko tuwing nagsasangla ako, kami ng asawa ko.” In English, she said the money is a big help for buying necessities, especially for her child, whose belongings were all lost. She never expected Cebuana Lhuillier to give her money. She and her husband always buy insurance whenever they pawn items.
Likewise, Marina Perez Lopez, another recipient, is a long-time Cebuana Lhuillier client. She lived just behind the source of the fire, so she could not save any of her belongings. “Napakalaking tulong nito sa amin. ‘Di ko nga po akalain na ganto kalaki yung makukuha namin at talagang makakatulong ito para makabangon kami ng mga anak ko. Basta pag nagsasangla kami, sinasabihan kami na magpainsurance, kaya salamat po sa Cebuana Lhuillier,” she said emotionally. In English, she said this is a huge help. She never expected to receive so much, and it will help her and her children get back on their feet. Staff always advise her to get insurance when she pawns, so she thanked Cebuana Lhuillier.
A Long-Running Commitment to Fire-Affected Communities
CLIB launched Kumustahan in 2009 as a swift response program for fire-stricken communities. The initiative takes only a few days to process and disburse claims. As a result, ProtectMax policy holders can receive them easily.
Moreover, CLIB is an insurance broker, and it commits to prioritizing the best interests of its clients. It advocates for customers during negotiations with insurers and when handling claims. It also helps them navigate the complexities of the insurance industry. This commitment to client advocacy separates CLIB and complements its goal. It reaffirms CLIB’s unwavering support for Filipinos in times of need.
