Manulife Investments Philippines led the country’s unit investment trust fund (UITF) rankings during the first half of 2026, with several of its equity and fixed income funds posting the highest year-to-date returns across their respective categories.
Data covering the period from Jan. 1 to June 30 showed the asset management company taking the top three spots in the equity feeder fund category.
The Manulife Global Semiconductor Opportunities Equity Feeder Fund, launched in November 2025, delivered a 105.71 percent year-to-date return, the highest among equity feeder funds. The fund invests in global semiconductor companies benefiting from demand driven by artificial intelligence, data centers, and consumer electronics.
The Manulife Global Clean Energy Equity Feeder Fund ranked second with a 40.67-percent return, while the Manulife Global Technology Equity Feeder Fund placed third after posting a 37.06-percent return.
In the equity fund category, the Manulife Asia Best Select Equity Fund topped the rankings, with its PHP Unhedged Class A generating a 37.31-percent return.
The company also posted strong results in fixed income investments. Its Manulife Asia Short Duration Bond Feeder Fund ranked first in the fixed income feeder fund category, while two other Manulife-managed bond funds also placed among the category’s top performers.
The results reflect growing investor interest in thematic global investment strategies centered on long-term trends such as artificial intelligence, technology, and the clean energy transition, alongside demand for lower-risk fixed income products.
“Investing is not one-size-fits-all. Some investors seek long-term growth, while others prioritize income or stability. That is why we offer a diverse range of UITFs designed to help investors pursue their financial goals based on their unique objectives and risk preferences,” said Aira Gaspar, president and chief executive officer of Manulife Investments Philippines.
Gaspar said longer life expectancy among Filipinos highlights the importance of long-term investing and financial planning, adding that the company’s investment approach combines global research capabilities with local market expertise to help investors navigate changing market conditions.
Manulife Investments Philippines offers a range of UITFs across equity and fixed income asset classes designed to cater to different investment objectives and risk profiles. Investors may access the funds through the company’s digital investment platform, Manulife iFUNDS.