Manulife Financial’s Public Accountability Statement now available at www.manulife.com

TORONTO, May 14 /CNW/ - Manulife Financial Corporation's 2009 Public Accountability Statement is now available for download at www.manulife.com. The report reviews the Company's commitment to social responsibility, environmental sustainability, excellence in business conduct and corporate governance.

Manulife's approach to corporate social responsibility reflects its commitment to clients, shareholders, employees, communities and the environment. We are here "For your future".

The 2009 Public Accountability Statement highlights efforts in Canada, the United States and Asia to build stronger communities, promote health and wellness, enhance environmental sustainability and harness the power of volunteering in the community.

In 2009:

     <<     -   Our employees contributed 58,000 volunteer hours in communities where         we operate.     -   We planted 48.7 million seedlings on 101,000 acres of forest land -         and then planted a tree for each of our employees, agents and         retirees around the world, to celebrate our 10th anniversary as a         public company.     -   We brought our aggregate, multi-year investments in renewable and         energy-efficient projects to more than $3.4 billion.     -   We supported important emergency relief projects and launched new         micro-financing and micro-insurance initiatives in Asia.     -   We were proud to receive numerous honours including being named one         of the "Best Employers for New Canadians."     >> 

About Manulife Financial

Manulife Financial is a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 22 countries and territories worldwide. Operating as Manulife Financial in Canada and Asia, and primarily through John Hancock in the United States, the Company offers customers a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Funds under management by Manulife Financial and its subsidiaries were Cdn$446 billion (US$440 billion) as at March 31, 2010.

Manulife Financial Corporation trades as 'MFC' on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under '945' on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.