Women from diverse backgrounds came together to take part in a roundtable discussion on topics that are often kept under wraps, challenge stereotypes, and debunk limiting beliefs that hinder their wealth and well-being.
This conversation co-hosted by leading insurance firm AIA Philippines and women empowerment platform She Talks Asia, created a much-needed safe space to rethink how women view money, defy societal norms, and prioritize both immediate needs and long-term goals.
She Talks Asia founders Lynn Pinugu, Bianca Gonzales, and Iza Calzado discussed how cultural conditioning and hiya (shame) can make it tough for Filipino women to talk about money. “We’re often taught that talking about money is taboo and are conditioned to just accept what’s given to us,” Lynn said.
Iza added, “Many of us were raised to think that asking for more is just too much. But it’s totally okay to ask for what you deserve, knowing our worth.”
The roundtable flowed with practical tips and inspiring ideas for boosting financial well-being. Janna Simpao, who founded Bride and Breakfast, pointed out that understanding your worth and finances begins at home. Meanwhile, Mariel Bitanga, founder of Simply Finance PH, reminded everyone that financial know-how is a learnable skill, not an innate talent.
They also looked into the power of seeking guidance and exploring financial tools, including insurance products such as AIA Ascend, for reaching both short-term and long-term goals and building a secure future for themselves and their families.
“Insurance isn’t an expense. It’s an investment in your peace of mind. Getting insured early means protecting your future at a lower cost, especially while you’re healthy,” AIA Philippines CMO Melissa Henson explained
The discussion then turned to the vital connection between financial well-being and overall health, discussing how societal pressures often lead women to prioritize others, resulting in burnout and neglecting their own needs.
They also explored the “good woman” archetype — being seen as self-sacrificing — and its impact on emotional efforts, labor, caregiving, and the guilt many women feel when prioritizing their own needs due to societal expectations.
More than just a conversation, the AIA Philippines and She Talks Asia roundtable ignited a powerful shift, helping women reclaim their confidence, rethink their beliefs about health and finances, own their worth, and build a future rooted in well-being. This spark is bound to inspire generations.
