HOLOMUA Volume 26 Issue 4

Vol. XXVI Issue 4

April 4 , 2025

Connecting to Culture and Nature See more on page 10

Recognizing Our Top FICOH Rewards Agents

At around this time each year, we announce the top-tiered agents in our FICOH Rewards program. In this issue, we are excited to share with you our 2025 top-performing agents. Please see page 4 for the full list, take a moment to familiarize yourself with these outstanding partners, and if you have the opportunity, be sure to thank them for their business and partnership.

“ It is not enough to simply be a strong choice—we must also be seen as true partners. Rewarding our most loyal and high - performing agents is a key part of that commitment. ”

The FICOH Rewards program has played a significant role in strengthening our relationships with independent agents since its inception. Originally developed in 2017 by our Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) team, the program has evolved over the years to stay relevant and aligned with our business goals. We have continuously refined its criteria to ensure it remains a valuable tool for both our agents and FICOH.

As we navigate current hard market conditions, we recognize that FICOH remains one of the better options for our agents and their clients. However, it is not enough to simply be a strong choice — we must also be seen as true partners. Rewarding our most loyal and high-performing agents is a key part of that commitment. Profitability remains our top priority. We are not just focused on premium growth; we are committed to writing and retaining profitable business. The FICOH Rewards program is structured to recognize agents who not only contribute higher production but also maintain a lower loss ratio than our average agent. This ensures that we continue to build a strong and sustainable future for our company and our partners.

Thank you to everyone who plays a role in fostering these valuable agency relationships. Your efforts help strengthen our position in the market and reinforce our commitment to profitable growth.

Kim Ebanez | AVP, CUW Support & Auxiliary Happy Aloha Friday! I can’t believe the 1 st quarter of the year is already over….time waits for no one! On March 14, our Sriweepa Seronio retired after 45 amazing years. She was there from the start of PMS and left shortly after sunset. We miss her tremendously and wish her all the best on her well-deserved retirement. I want to give a shout out to the ladies of CUW Support. With training WNS and the increase in workload, you successfully navigated a busy first quarter through strong teamwork and collaboration. Thank you for your hard work and dedication! You all Rock! Have a great weekend all! Robert Libby | AVP, Claims Ryan Nakagawa (Property) and McKenna Nieves (Auto BI) are traveling to Miami next week, representing FICOH in the Tokio Marine ELP Program – Maria Campbell and Salman Tahir are the other participating team members. They have been working hard to deliver a business improvement project with real value to our Company. We can’t wait to see what they come up with! Yvette Barradas is their program mentor and we are sending her down to Miami to keep them in line! At the end of May, claims will have Lisa Kinoshita (GL/Litigation) and Laura Ramos (Workers Comp) representing FICOH in the TM2100 Program. We have high expectations for them! As one who is currently in the middle of the NextGen Program, I would encourage everyone at FICOH to take advantage of these training opportunities that are designed to stretch and challenge people, and take them outside their comfort zone.

Congratulations

Healthiest Company We were also recognized as the in the medium employer category! On behalf of your entire officer team, congratulations and thank you for all you do to make FICOH a great place to work and a trusted partner for Hawaii. First Insurance on being named one of Hawaii’s Best Places to Work by Hawaii Business Magazine.

FICOH’s Top -Tiered Agents Revealed Now in its seventh full year, the FICOH Rewards program is designed to show appreciation to our top performing producers and incentivize them to place profitable business with FICOH by giving them access to added benefits and services based on their book’s size, growth and performance. The program rewards producers who fall into one of four tiers (Diamond, Gold, Silver and Bronze). This year’s top-tiered producers are eligible for benefits starting April 1. FICOH will host Diamond and Gold producers and their agency management at an awards event in May. In addition, Diamond producers and their guests will be treated to a trip to Tokyo, Japan, in October.

If you happen to interact with any of these agents, please be sure to thank them for their support!

Diamond Tier Producers

Sean Isono

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Sean Nakamura

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Megan Wood

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Christopher Laniauskas

CAVANAH ASSOCIATES INC

Christie Wash

INNOVATIVE INSURANCE RESOURCES

Sue Savio

INSURANCE ASSOCIATES INC

Krystyn Weeks

INSURANCE ASSOCIATES INC JACK WOLFE INSURANCE INC

John Junk Jr

Walter Kiyota

NOGUCHI & ASSOCIATES INC

Catherine German

PYRAMID INSURANCE CENTRE LTD

Ryan D. Thornton

PYRAMID INSURANCE CENTRE LTD

James Tyrin

ALLIANT INSURANCE SERVICES

Leslie Kerfoot

ALLIANT INSURANCE SERVICES

Joseph Marsh

ALLIANT INSURANCE SERVICES

Gold Tier Producers

Russell S. Akamine

ACW GROUP LLC

Scott Larue

ATLAS INSURANCE AGENCY

D. Yamaguchi Ins. Services

BUSINESS INSURANCE

David Kinoshita

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Dennis Miyashiro

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Lance Yamaguchi

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Shawn Meador

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Travis Kinoshita

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Insurance Solutions LLC

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Corina Hill

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Chelsea Taylor

BUSINESS INSURANCE

Jim Cavanah

USI INSURANCE

Garrett Chai

INNOVATIVE INSURANCE RESOURCES

Michael Ayson

INSURANCE ASSOCIATES INC

Hideo Noguchi

NOGUCHI & ASSOCIATES INC

Michael Bryan, Jr.

NOGUCHI & ASSOCIATES INC

Curtis Nishiyama

NOGUCHI & ASSOCIATES INC

Denton Pang

NOGUCHI & ASSOCIATES INC

Garrett Goo

BROWN & BROWN PAC INS SVCS INC

Brad Nagano

MOKIHANA INSURANCE AGENCY

Strengthening Wildfire Resilience: Insights from the Hawaii Wildfire Summit

The Hawaii Wildfire Summit, organized by the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO), was held on February 27-28 at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa. The event brought together leaders and experts from various fields to collaborate on advancing wildfire preparedness, mitigation, and management in Hawaii. Senior Vice President Lance Kawano attended on behalf of FICOH and shared these takeaways. A Collaborative Approach to Wildfire Readiness HWMO and its partners emphasized the importance of a system-wide approach to wildfire risk reduction. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in discussions, hands-on training, and strategic planning to enhance community resilience. Key topics included wildfire prevention strategies, home safety measures, and the role of technology in early fire detection and response. Home Condition Matters Scientific evidence continues to show that home conditions play a significant role in fire risk. Well-maintained homes, constructed with fire-resistant materials and designed to limit ember intrusion, have a much lower chance of burning in a wildfire. However, many homes in Hawaii are built to encourage airflow, making them more vulnerable to flying embers in high-wind events. Encouraging Fire-Resistant Practices The insurance industry has an opportunity to support fire prevention by considering modest rate incentives for communities and homeowners who take proactive measures, such as: • Achieving community-wide wildfire prevention qualifications • Using fire-resistant building materials Implementing defensible space strategies around homes Harnessing Technology for Fire Detection HECO has made notable strides in reducing wildfire risk by implementing AI-powered cameras and replacing utility poles in high-risk areas. These high-quality cameras provide 24/7 fire and heat detection, significantly improving the ability of fire departments to respond swiftly. Community and Environmental Efforts The summit highlighted the importance of integrating wildfire risk reduction with broader environmental and community initiatives. Efforts to control non-native grasses — one of the primary fuels for wildfires — through removal and the planting of native species are proving effective. Fire breaks remain a key tool in minimizing fire spread and protecting communities. Insurance Industry Participation While there were many questions and misperceptions about insurance policies and wildfire coverage, the discussions were positive and underscored the shared goal of reducing risk and enhancing community safety. Some mainland insurance carriers have already begun adopting similar incentives, setting a potential model for Hawaii.

By continuing to engage in collaborative efforts with organizations like HWMO, our industry can help build wildfire resilience in Hawaii. FICOH is exploring additional ways to partner with HWMO in the future.

Before and after on Kauai

FICOH Flood’s 20th Anniversary: See How Far We’ve Come

Did you know that FICOH’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) book turns 20 this year? Our journey began in March 2005 when FICOH signed a flood contract with National Flood Services (NFS), followed by the purchase of Ken Garner's sizeable NFIP flood book in October 2005. Although we had FEMA flood contracts dating back to the 1980s, FICOH's flood business gained significant momentum in 2005 when these key partnerships took shape. Today, FICOH is Hawaii's largest Write-Your Own (WYO) carrier of NFIP flood insurance. In addition to NFIP flood insurance, FICOH also offers private market flood solutions through Lloyd's of London and our sister company, TM Highland. Key Milestones • March 2005 – Signed contract with National Flood Services (NFS) • October 2005 – Purchased sizeable NFIP flood book from Ken Garner 2006 – Transitioned from NFS to Torrent, our current vendor for NFIP insurance sales and servicing Meet Our Flood Players Meet the individuals who have helped build our Flood book and provide continuity of service and expertise over the years: • Darleen Daguro supported our Flood business before FICOH purchased Ken Garner’s book • Mark Mitsuyoshi served as our primary NFIP Flood underwriter for several years before moving to Pyramid Insurance Wesley Brum succeeded Mark and later trained current team members Danny Taniguchi (joined in 2017) and Maile Fuchshuber (joined in 2018). Wesley later transitioned to Insurance Associates.

Market Share Growth FICOH has steadily increased its NFIP market share over the years: • 2011 : 39.2% • 2013 : 41.9% • 2017 : 50.3% Today : 53% market share with a 93% NFIP retention rate

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Major Flood Events and Response

April 2018 Flood Event In April 2018, torrential rain caused catastrophic flooding across Kauai and East Oahu. The storm impacted 527 properties (source: FEMA), with FICOH handling more than 220 NFIP claims. Our FEMA adjusting partner, Pilot Catastrophe, mobilized quickly, deploying 5-6 adjusters to the hardest-hit areas. Access to Hanalei was especially difficult, requiring adjusters to travel by boat and horseback to reach stranded residents. Hanalei residents even offered their own horses to assist adjusters, who spent three weeks conducting assessments in the area. March 2021 Rainstorms Heavy rains in March 2021 caused widespread property damage across Hawaii Island, Maui, Kauai, and Oahu. FICOH received around 40 claims, with total estimated damages affecting roughly 100 properties. In-House Flood Expertise FICOH’s dedicated Flood team has deep expertise. Both Maile and Danny hold the Associate in National Flood Insurance (ANFI) designation, awarded by FEMA after passing a series of rigorous exams that measure technical and practical flood insurance knowledge. Our Unique Value Proposition What sets FICOH apart from other WYO carriers is our commitment to personalized service. Unlike competitors who rely solely on vendors like Torrent, our Flood team manages all agent interactions directly. Danny and Maile handle everything from quotes and new business to endorsements and payments, providing a seamless, high-touch experience that strengthens relationships with our agency partners. Adapting to Change In 2022, FEMA introduced Risk Rating 2.0 , replacing its 30-year-old rating model. Danny and Maile worked diligently to learn and implement the new program during the pandemic. In essence, the new program compressed rates so there were fewer outliers and policyholders across flood zones were paying their fair share. This increased rates for many NFIP policyholders, resulting in some movement to the private market. Looking Ahead NFIP flood mapping changes across Oahu are expected in 2026. These updates will assign flood zones to previously undetermined areas, including in Iwilei, Chinatown, the North Shore, Kailua, Kapolei, and inland Waianae. These updates will likely generate increased business for our Flood team. As we celebrate 20 years of protecting Hawaii communities from flood risks, we are proud of our growth, resilience, and the trusted relationships we have built with our agents and policyholders. Here's to another 20 years of dedication and service!

Each quarter, Holomua will feature a Enter to Win! Quiz to test your reading skills. Answer all questions correctly for a chance to win a Denali 40 oz. Stainless Thermal Mug. Click the link below and use the info from this issue to answer the questions. Good luck!

Click Here

Looking Ahead: FICOH’s 2025 Business Plan

Each year, FICOH works with Tokio Marine to finalize our Business Plan for the year. What underwriting, claims and pricing actions are we planning to take? Where are we in the P&C market cycle? These are just a few questions we ask ourselves while also considering the expectations included in Tokio Marine’s financial plan.

2025: Continuing the Momentum Looking ahead, we expect these positive trends to continue. Our 2025 Business Plan targets a 99.5% Combined Ratio, an impressive milestone given the challenges we’ve overcome post -wildfire. While we are well-positioned to achieve our goals, external risks — such as severe weather events and large losses — remain factors beyond our control.

A Strong 2024 Sets the Stage for 2025 2024 was a strong year for FICOH. A hard market, approved rate increases, and high renewal retention fueled growth in both Gross Written Premium (GWP) and new business. On the profitability front, securing much-needed rate adjustments and managing expenses — including through our partnership with WNS — helped strengthen our bottom line.

For a detailed look at our 2025 financial goals compared to our 2024 actual performance and plan, click the button below.

Note: Our 2025 Business Plan is subject to change.

ACH Auto Pay Giveaway Sweepstakes – Enter Now!

FICOH’s ACH Auto Pay contest for customers is happening now! Three lucky FICOH policyholders will win a $100 gift card each month by signing up for a qualifying ACH Auto Pay plan between now and June 14, 2025. Click here for details.

Why switch to ACH Auto Pay? • Never miss a due date • Avoid coverage lapses • Lower installment fees

Plus, it helps FICOH streamline billing and reduce manual processes.

Great news: Associates with FICOH policies are eligible to win!

Sign up today: • Visit ficoh.com and click “Pay Online / Log In.” • Log into or create your My Policy account. • Go to Billing, select your policy, and click “Manage Payments.” • Set up ACH Auto Pay — no fees, no hassle, just convenience!

Celebrating Excellence: FICOH’s First -Ever Make A Difference Awards On Friday, March 7 th , FICOH hosted its first-ever Make A Difference Awards ceremony, with Janis Kushimi (HR) bringing high energy (and impressive dance moves) as the emcee. During the event, we honored four deserving associates who go above and beyond in their roles, embodying our core values and inspiring others to do the same. Congratulations to:

Yuki Yehambaram Legal

June Fong Claims

Jason Agonoy Personal Lines Underwriting

Noelani Luu Claims

Each winner took home a trophy, $1,000, and most importantly, bragging rights for life! Later that morning, FICOH treated associates to sandwiches from Kalapawai Café and cookies from Cookie Corner in honor of National Employee Appreciation Day.

Check out a recap of all the fun we had HERE.

New Hire

Retirement

Transitions

Daniel Patterson

Manager to Senior Manager Claims Management

Danny Taniguchi

Flood Underwriter to Senior Flood Underwriter FiRMS

Brittany Osurman

Associate III to Senior Associate Workers Comp

Brent Kitsutani Captive Insurance Consultant, FiRMS to Sr. Financial Analyst, Strategic & Financial Analytics

Jun Wada

Sriweepa Seronio

Manager Strategic Planning

Sr. Support Operations

Connecting to Culture and Nature

On Saturday, March 8th, our associates, friends, and family gathered at the University of Hawaii Mānoa campus to volunteer at Ka Papa Lo ʻ i o Kānewai. It was a day filled with hands-on work, like picking leaves for fertilizer, pressing mud in the lo ʻ i patch, harvesting kalo, and maintaining irrigation canals. The highlight of the day was the opportunity to learn about Hawaiian traditions and beliefs. We learned Hawaiian stories, proverbs, and valuable lessons about the ahupua ʻ a system that deepened our connection to the land and its cultural significance. Under the warm sunshine, we worked alongside our friends from the International Business Organization (IBO) from the university. Mahalo to everyone who participated in this effort to mālama ʻ āina.

Share something you learned. That they are desperate for people to take some mango off their hands! Within reason and with respect of course – fruit aside, we learned quite a bit of the area’s history and how the lo`i started as a dumping ground (!!) Unfortunate start but only goes to show what resilience and a connection to the land can produce.

Why did you sign up for this event? We’re not just a company that sells insurance and through service events like this one, FICOH shows commitment to insuring the future and well-being of our people. I absolutely love being a part of this effort; plus, anything that grounds me and brings me back to nature at the end of a week is very welcome.

What surprised you about the experience? How many people showed up! I thought ‘moderate to difficult’ physical work would have deterred a lot of people, but we had plenty of hands to make light of the work. It was a different (but soothing) kind of tired at the end of the day.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT

Kate Mulalap (Customer Service)

1160 Maunakea St., Honolulu, HI 96817 Pho Que Huong

(808) 528-3663 Mon-Sun: 8am-8pm

FICOH associates are encouraged to patronize our restaurant insureds.

I n recent years, Honolulu’s Chinatown has emerged as a must -visit destination for both tourists and locals, thanks in large part to its vibrant food scene. At the top of the list of standout eateries is Pho Que Huong. This popular Vietnamese restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring sandwiches, noodles, and a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Owner Chucly Vu moved to Honolulu from Vietnam with her young children, bringing with her a valuable skill —sewing. Though she didn’t speak English, she spent years making aloha shirts for a local designer. After saving for two decades, Chucly fulfilled her childhood dream of opening her own restaurant, allowing her to do what she loves while raising her family in Hawaii. One of the highlights at Pho Que Huong is the bánh xèo, a Vietnamese crepe filled with shrimp, pork belly, mung beans, bean sprouts, and white onions. The crepe is large, crispy, and light on the outside, while the fillings offer a balance of textures and flavors. Both newcomers and regular patrons agree that it's a must-try dish. Another favorite is the bánh mì, which features a variety of fillings. Classic options like lemongrass chicken are always popular, but the restaurant also offers a specialty sandwich with Vietnamese ham, jambon, and bologna sausage. For those seeking something different, the sunny- side-up egg sandwich is a satisfying alternative. No visit to Pho Que Huong would be complete without trying their pop ular pho. The broth is light yet flavorful, made from simmering beef bones to perfection. You can choose from a variety of beef options, including steak, brisket, flank, meatballs, or tendon. Each bowl is served with fresh rice noodles and a side of garnishes like bean sprouts, basil, cilantro, lime, and jalapeños, allowing you to customize your pho to your liking. If you decide to explore Chinatown’s food scene, make sure to add Pho Que Huong to your list. While they offer delivery through food apps, you’ll want to enjoy the experience in person, so keep an eye out for good street parking. If online reviews are to be believed, it’s definitely worth the “pho” -nomenal trip.

Support Our Insureds

Don’t know what to eat for dinner tonight? Patronize our insureds and support local! Click here for a partial list of our restaurant insureds.