Pru Life UK recently held a dialogue with Muslim religious leaders, or Ulama, from Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, the Davao Region, Lanao del Norte and Zamboanga to strengthen community-based education on Takaful and Islamic finance.

The discussion aimed to deepen understanding of Shariah-compliant financial protection and its benefits, particularly among religious leaders who play a key role in guiding financial decisions within Muslim communities.

Pru Life UK said the dialogue focused on ethical financial protection grounded in Islamic values such as solidarity, mutual assistance, and shared responsibility, while emphasizing the importance of inclusive financial development that respects cultural and spiritual contexts.

“Even before the launch of our Takaful Window operations, we have been actively engaging with Islamic communities and stakeholders, including the religious community, to get their feedback, as Takaful is new in the Philippines, and to explore mutual support and collaborations. Through this latest dialogue with the Islamic religious leaders in Mindanao, we want to build trust, raise awareness and understanding about Takaful, and work together to ensure sustainable financial empowerment in Mindanao,” said Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Sustainability and Takaful Head.

Participants highlighted growing interest in Shariah-compliant financial products and the need for financial literacy programs that integrate religious guidance with modern financial planning tools.

Pru Life UK said the initiative supports national efforts to expand Islamic finance and aligns with development priorities in Mindanao, where demand for faith-based financial products continues to grow.

“Pru Life UK is always listening and always understanding. This dialogue ensures our programs reflect real needs, real voices, and real cultural contexts,” Estavillo added.