Sun Life Philippines has recently achieved remarkable recognition across various fronts, underscoring its commitment to excellence and positive impact within the industry and the community. From topping industry rankings to receiving accolades for its HR practices and philanthropic efforts, Sun Life continues to set a high standard.
Sun Life Tops MDRT Rankings
In a notable achievement, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. has secured the number one spot in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for having the highest number of financial advisors among its peers in the Philippines. With 540 MDRT members in 2023, Sun Life surpassed its nearest competitor by 172 advisors, solidifying its leadership position. Globally, Sun Life ranks 41st among the top 50 MDRT companies.
Alfonso Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life, commented, “Excellence is a cornerstone of Sun Life’s commitment to its clients and the Filipino nation as a whole.”
Benedict Sison, CEO & Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, added, “They not only bring to life our purpose but do so with such passion and dedication. They make us proud and remind us that going the extra mile to help Clients secure their future will always be a rewarding pursuit.”
HR Excellence Awards Finalist
Sun Life Philippines has also been recognized as a finalist in the HR Excellence Awards 2024 in two key categories: Excellence in Employee Engagement and Excellence in CSR Strategy. This acknowledgment highlights the company’s dedication to fostering an engaging workplace and its impactful community initiatives.
Michelle Garcia, Chief Human Resources Officer at Sun Life Philippines, expressed, “We strive to create a positive impact both internally and externally, and this will inspire us to continue building a sustainable future for our employees and the communities we serve.”
Legal Team’s Prestigious Recognition
Adding to its accolades, Sun Life’s legal team has been honored in the inaugural Legal 500 GC Powerlist, a prestigious roster of influential in-house legal teams in the Philippines. Sun Life is notably the only insurance company included in this elite list.
Atty. Ed Tordesillas, General Counsel of Sun Life Philippines, remarked, “My team and I are honored to be included in this prestigious list. We continuously strive for excellence, and this recognition will inspire us to further contribute to Sun Life’s mission.”
Benedict Sison further acknowledged, “We are truly grateful for their contributions as we continuously help clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”
Philanthropic Efforts: Clean Water Project in Palawan
In its philanthropic endeavors, the Sun Life Foundation has completed a significant project to improve access to clean water in remote areas of Palawan. Partnering with the Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. and the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, the initiative benefits 4,362 households and over 18,000 individuals across three barangays.
Kristine Millete, Executive Director of the Sun Life Foundation, stated, “We are delighted to see the completion of this project, knowing the benefits it will bring our community beneficiaries. This not only brings to life our health advocacy but likewise our sustainability priorities, as it supports biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation.”
Sun Life Philippines continues to set benchmarks for excellence in the financial services industry while making a meaningful impact on the communities it serves. Through its achievements in MDRT rankings, HR practices, legal prowess, and philanthropic efforts, Sun Life exemplifies a commitment to both professional excellence and social responsibility.
Running a small business comes with a unique set of financial challenges. Whether it’s managing cash flow, dealing with unexpected expenses, or facing difficulties in securing traditional financing, entrepreneurs often find themselves navigating uncertain waters. In these situations, credit cards can serve as lifelines, providing much-needed financial flexibility to keep your business on track.
The Financial Challenges Entrepreneurs Face
One of the most common challenges for entrepreneurs is managing cash flow. Revenue can be inconsistent, making it difficult to cover day-to-day expenses, pay suppliers, or invest in growth opportunities. Even a brief dip in income can cause significant strain on your business operations.
Unexpected expenses are another reality of entrepreneurship. Equipment may break down, inventory might run low at the worst possible time, or you could face an emergency situation that demands immediate financial attention. These unforeseen costs can disrupt your budget and hinder your progress.
Moreover, gaining access to traditional financing, such as bank loans, can be particularly challenging for small business owners. Without a strong credit history or collateral, you may find it difficult to secure the funds you need, especially during the early stages of your business.
How Credit Cards Can Help
Credit cards offer several benefits that can help you navigate these financial challenges. First and foremost, they provide access to immediate funds. Whether you need to purchase inventory, pay for marketing campaigns, or handle unexpected expenses, a credit card can be a quick and convenient way to cover these costs without waiting for loan approval.
Using a credit card responsibly can also help you build your business credit. Over time, a strong credit history can make it easier to secure larger financing options, such as business loans, that can further support your growth.
Credit cards also offer flexibility in managing your business expenses. You can track your spending, separate your personal and business finances, and use online tools to manage your budget more effectively. This level of control is crucial for making informed financial decisions and maintaining the health of your business.
How You Might Use a Credit Card for Your Business
Imagine a situation where you need to make a large purchase, such as new equipment or a bulk order of inventory. By using your credit card’s installment feature, you could convert this large expense into manageable monthly payments. This would allow you to invest in your business without putting undue strain on your cash flow.
Another scenario might involve taking advantage of discounts and rewards. For instance, you could use your credit card to purchase supplies from a vendor that offers exclusive discounts. Over time, these savings could significantly boost your bottom line, especially if you frequently make large purchases.
UnionBank Credit Cards for Entrepreneurs
UnionBank offers a range of credit cards designed to meet the specific needs of entrepreneurs like you. Here are some key benefits that could help you manage your business more effectively:
In-House Installment. If you need to make a significant purchase, you can convert your transactions into fixed monthly installments. This feature can help you manage large expenses without disrupting your budget.
Longer Credit Terms. You can enjoy up to 53 days of credit at 0% interest if you pay your full balance by the due date. This extended period gives you the flexibility to manage your cash flow more effectively.
Exclusive Discounts. You can take advantage of discounts, perks, and freebies at a wide range of establishments. These savings can add up, especially when making regular business-related purchases.
Worldwide Acceptance. Your UnionBank Visa or Mastercard credit card is accepted at over a million establishments worldwide. This is particularly beneficial if you do business internationally or frequently travel for work.
Credit Card Security & Protection. UnionBank provides robust security features to help you keep your transactions and personal information safe. This protection is essential in today’s digital age, where cybersecurity is a growing concern.
Credit cards can be powerful tools for entrepreneurs, offering the financial flexibility, security, and convenience needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. If you’re looking for a credit card that can support your business, consider exploring UnionBank’s options.
Don’t let financial challenges hold your business back. Apply for a UnionBank credit card today and start enjoying the benefits that can help you achieve your business goals with confidence.
For many Filipinos, the dream of earning a college degree while supporting themselves or their families feels just out of reach. The daily grind of balancing work and studies can be overwhelming, leading many to put their education on hold or abandon it altogether. With 1.60 million unemployed Filipinos as of December 2023, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority, and a workforce still struggling with a skills gap, the need for accessible education and meaningful job opportunities has never been more urgent.
Working students often face a unique set of challenges: long hours at work, financial pressures, and the constant juggle between academic and professional responsibilities. For these individuals, the traditional education model often falls short, failing to accommodate their complex lives. But a new partnership between Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC) and Concentrix is set to change that narrative, offering a beacon of hope for those striving to better their futures.
The MMDC-Concentrix Work & Study Program: A New Hope for Working Students
Recognizing the hurdles faced by working students, MMDC, a premier digital-first, fully online college in the Philippines, has teamed up with Concentrix, a global leader in customer experience solutions, to launch an innovative Work & Study Program. This collaboration is more than just a typical corporate-educational partnership; it’s a bold initiative designed to empower working students by providing them with the tools, resources, and flexibility they need to succeed both academically and professionally.
“Working students in the country have been underserved for years,” says Hazel Banas, Vice President for People Solutions at Concentrix. “The focus has been on basic education and traditional college models that we believe don’t serve the needs of our working students. We need more people in the workforce, and the way to produce that, to contribute to the economy and the country’s growth, is to produce more professionals.”
This partnership aims to do just that—produce more professionals who are not only academically equipped but also experienced and ready to contribute to the nation’s growth.
Addressing the Pain Points of Working Students: How the Program Works
One of the most significant barriers for working students is time—there’s simply not enough of it. The MMDC-Concentrix Work & Study Program directly addresses this issue by offering a part-time job with a flexible college schedule that allows students to manage their time effectively. Participants in the program will work 20-30 hours a week while taking 3-4 subjects per term at MMDC, ensuring they can balance work, school, and personal responsibilities.
Engr. Dennis Tablante, MMDC’s Executive Director, highlights the program’s focus on flexibility: “MMDC is here to support working students who want to take up a career in IT and Business and set them up for success. We offer flexible schedules to cater to those who have more than enough on their plate but want to step up their careers and current skill sets. We have top industry leaders to guide our students to become highly equipped professionals who can contribute to the country’s economic growth.”
Financial constraints are another major obstacle for working students. To ease this burden, the program includes a Salary Deduction Program and covers matriculation fees per term for eligible part-time employees. Additionally, MMDC offers the Asenso Scholarship, providing a 36% discount on tuition fees, and partners with BukasPH and GCash to offer further financial aid. These initiatives make higher education more accessible, allowing students to focus on their studies without the constant worry of financial strain.
The program also emphasizes holistic development. With a mentorship program in place, students receive guidance not just on academic subjects, but also on personal and professional growth. This ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also well-rounded, ready to tackle the challenges of the modern workforce.
The Bigger Picture: Empowering a Generation
The MMDC-Concentrix partnership isn’t just about helping individual students—it’s about fueling the growth of an entire generation of skilled professionals. With the IT-BPM Association of the Philippines aiming to create 2.5 million new jobs by 2028, programs like this are crucial in expanding the country’s talent pool. As more working students gain the qualifications and experience they need to succeed, the nation as a whole stands to benefit.
Tonichi Parekh, Concentrix’s Vice President for Client Success, encapsulates the program’s vision: “We are tech-led and human-empowered, so we decided to partner with MMDC so that we could also empower our employees, we call them game changers, so that they could also live up to their dream of finishing their school while they are working. It changes the dynamics a little bit when the employer offers to their employees that they can actually study and finish their college degrees.”
Empower Your Future
For working students, the path to achieving their dreams has always been steep, but with the MMDC-Concentrix Work & Study Program, that journey is becoming more manageable. This program is an opportunity to gain the skills and education needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market, all while maintaining a stable income.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and education, Concentrix invites you to apply for their Customer Service Advisor roles at their Ayala North Exchange, Makati, or Nuvali, Sta. Rosa offices. Once hired, you’ll have the chance to enroll in MMDC and become part of this transformative program. Employment begins on October 1, 2024, and the first term at MMDC starts on August 19, 2024, with enrollment closing on August 31, 2024.
Don’t let the challenges of being a working student hold you back. With MMDC and Concentrix by your side, you can achieve your goals and build a brighter future for yourself and your family. Apply now and take the first step toward unlocking your dreams.
Filipino entrepreneurs have long been the backbone of the country’s economy, driving growth and innovation in every corner of the nation. Yet, the road to success for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is often fraught with challenges that can be difficult to overcome. To address these hurdles, Sun Life Philippines and Go Negosyo have joined forces in a strategic partnership aimed at empowering Filipino entrepreneurs and securing their future.
Tackling Entrepreneurial Challenges Head-On
Running a small business in the Philippines comes with a unique set of challenges. Access to capital is one of the biggest obstacles, with many entrepreneurs struggling to secure the funds they need to start or expand their businesses. Traditional financing options often come with stringent requirements that MSMEs find hard to meet.
Another major challenge is financial literacy. Many entrepreneurs lack the knowledge and skills needed to manage their finances effectively, leading to issues like poor cash flow management, inadequate savings, and difficulty in making informed financial decisions. This gap in financial knowledge can severely limit the growth potential of their businesses.
Risk management is also a critical concern. Small business owners often overlook the importance of insurance, leaving their businesses vulnerable to unexpected events such as natural disasters, health emergencies, or economic downturns. Without adequate protection, these unforeseen challenges can threaten the survival of their enterprises.
The partnership between Sun Life and Go Negosyo aims to address these challenges by providing comprehensive support to MSMEs. Through this collaboration, Sun Life will offer tailored financial solutions that are designed to meet the specific needs of small business owners. These solutions include easier access to capital, insurance protection, and expert financial planning services that can help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of managing their businesses.
Thermina Akram, Go Negosyo Executive Director; Joey Concepcion, Go Negosyo Founder, Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Sun Life Philippines Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer; and Cary Casipit, Sun Life Philippines Head of Client Segments Marketing
A Strategic Alliance for a Brighter Future
Sun Life Philippines, a leader in life insurance, and Go Negosyo, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, have come together with a shared vision: to create a thriving ecosystem where Filipino entrepreneurs can succeed and reach their full potential.
As part of this collaboration, Sun Life will play an active role in Go Negosyo’s 3M on Wheels program—a mobile entrepreneurship caravan that travels across the country to bring business support services directly to MSMEs. At these events, Sun Life financial advisors will be on hand to offer financial consultations, helping entrepreneurs to future-proof their businesses and align their personal financial goals with their entrepreneurial ambitions.
Additionally, the partnership includes the introduction of innovative tools such as the “Play for Life: A Game of Choices” board game, which Sun Life presented to Go Negosyo. This game can help business owners by imparting valuable financial literacy lessons in a fun and engaging way. By gamifying the learning process, Sun Life hopes to make financial education more accessible and relatable for entrepreneurs.
Sun Life Play for Life: A Game of Choices Board Game
Empowering Entrepreneurs to Thrive
Through this partnership, Sun Life and Go Negosyo are not just addressing the immediate needs of Filipino MSMEs but are also laying the foundation for their long-term success. By offering access to capital, enhancing financial literacy, and providing robust risk management solutions, the collaboration is set to empower entrepreneurs to overcome the challenges they face and build sustainable, resilient businesses.
The partnership underscores a commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in the Philippines. With the combined resources and expertise of Sun Life and Go Negosyo, Filipino entrepreneurs are better equipped to navigate the complexities of business, secure their future, and ultimately contribute to the growth of the nation’s economy.
For Filipino entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to the next level, the partnership between Sun Life and Go Negosyo offers a beacon of hope and a pathway to success. By leveraging the support and resources provided through this collaboration, MSMEs can look forward to a brighter, more prosperous future.
To know more about Sun Life’s products and services for business owners, visit sunlife.co/entrepfinancialplan or talk to a Sun Life Financial Advisor today.
Diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords; they are critical components of a successful workplace. Embracing these values leads to a richer, more innovative environment where all employees feel valued and respected. The Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) recently highlighted these themes at its recent general membership meeting with the theme, “Speak Out, Stand Out: Championing Diversity in Workplace Communication.”
The event was held at the DivinaLaw offices in Makati City and featured key speakers from MullenLowe TREYNA, the agency that won last year’s Grand Anvil Award for the Quezon City Gender and Development Council’s Right to Care Card.
Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential for fostering innovation, improving employee satisfaction, and enhancing overall organizational success. Here’s a guide to help you champion diversity and foster an inclusive environment based on insights from the event’s speakers.
Encourage Empathy and Understanding
One of the foundational steps in fostering an inclusive environment is promoting empathy and understanding among employees. Atty. Joshy Aguilar from DivinaLaw emphasized the need for empathy, stating, “Just because you don’t experience the same struggle does not mean that it does not exist or that it’s not real.” By understanding and acknowledging the diverse experiences of colleagues, workplaces can create a more supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
Create Supportive Policies
Developing initiatives that support diversity is key to fostering an inclusive workplace. The “Right to Care Card” initiative, which grants medical-decision making rights to queer couples, serves as an excellent example. This initiative underscores the importance of creating policies that recognize and support the diverse needs of employees.
Use Authentic Storytelling
Authentic storytelling is a powerful tool in effective communication. Gerald Lim, PR Head of Accounts at MullenLowe TREYNA, explained, “The support and recognition it (the “Right to Care Card” campaign) had been getting may be attributed to simple, authentic, and heartfelt storytelling.” Sharing genuine stories that resonate with people’s experiences can help build a stronger connection and understanding among employees.
Choose the Right Words
Choosing the right words is essential in communicating concepts related to diversity and inclusion. Jam Pascual, a seasoned copywriter at MullenLowe TREYNA, attributes the success of the “Right to Care Card” campaign partly to its relatable language. “Our team wanted to get the idea across that the ‘Right to Care’ card relates deeply to ideas and experiences that the average Filipino can understand,” he said. Using language that is accessible and relatable helps convey important messages effectively.
Secure Support from Leadership
Leadership plays a crucial role in promoting diversity and inclusion. Krystel Ybañez, a Senior Art Director at MullenLowe TREYNA, shared, “We have brave and supportive leaders in the office who encouraged us to make this happen. That’s why diversity, equality, and inclusion are very important in workplace communication.” Leaders should actively support and encourage initiatives that promote these values, setting a positive example for the entire organization.
Engage the Community
Involving the broader community is crucial for the success of diversity and inclusion efforts. Gerald Lim highlighted the importance of community support, stating, “Communications can only do so much! We also need the support of the community for diversity and inclusivity to flourish.” Engaging with the community helps build a broader base of support and reinforces the organization’s commitment to these values.
Promote Continuous Learning
Continuous education on diversity and inclusion is essential for maintaining an inclusive workplace. PRSP’s ongoing efforts, as part of its #PRforAll theme, encourage communication practitioners to champion these values. Regular training and educational events can help keep diversity and inclusion at the forefront of workplace culture.
Championing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment require ongoing effort and commitment. For more information and resources, consider joining the Public Relations Society of the Philippines and participating in its events.
For more information about PRSP and to register for upcoming events, visit PRSP. Not yet a PRSP member? Join the country’s premier PR organization and apply via secretariat@prsp.ph.
It’s never easy to start a business, but it’s another challenge entirely to manage what may eventually seem like a never-ending list of expenses. On top of trying to gain a profit as soon as possible, you’ll have to worry about your daily operational expenses, how to purchase supplies, and a whole lot more from day one. It may also become apparent that you’ll need a generous cash flow to invest back into your business to develop new products, allowing it to grow and thrive further.
One viable option is for you to take out a business banking loan to give your business a significant financial boost. But having that extra money doesn’t mean you can consider your business financially sound already. Here are some tips on how business owners like you can stay financially healthy after receiving your loan:
1) Plan Your Use for Your Loan
Suddenly receiving a huge sum thanks to your loan can feel empowering for you at first, but from hereon, you should take firm initiative to exercise financial discipline. This starts with a sense of purpose for your loan.
Even before you take out the loan, come up with a clear picture of how the money will be spent. Since you probably know beforehand how much your loan amount will be, create a detailed plan of your expenditures. How much will be allocated to paying off other outstanding debts, if there are any, and how much will be invested to improve your current operations? Making clear plans ensures that the loan money will be put to good use.
2) Review Your Loan Terms Thoroughly
Taking out a loan means also taking on the responsibility of paying it off according to the terms set in the loan agreement. Failure to do so may incur additional costs, which would then just damage your business’s financial health further. After all, even the smallest additional charges due to late payments can be critical to your cash flow when they start piling up.
When it comes to taking out a loan, you probably want to look out for a program that has an easy application process and borrower-friendly fees. Fortunately, if you’re based in the Philippines, digital banks like Maya can offer you that convenience. Maya Flexi Loan, for example, provides businesses a quick way to apply for loans with terms that suit their needs. Finding the right loan provider can also be critical in ensuring that you get the amount you need and under terms that make it feasible for you to pay your loan back.
3) Shop for Better Deals from Your Suppliers
Your choice of suppliers is also crucial to the financial health of your business. If you’re stuck with a supplier who charges too high or fails to deliver in a timely manner, then your business operations—and in turn, your earnings—may be jeopardized.
Hence, despite having new capital thanks to your loan, take this as an opportunity to reevaluate your current suppliers. Your current suppliers may be offering rates that are too steep for you, which is sure to eat into your financial health in the long run. Shop around for better deals, and don’t be afraid to negotiate with current suppliers for better prices.
4) Invest Smartly
After taking out your business loan, make sure you invest part of the money into something that will profit your business. Perhaps this could be new equipment to help increase your current production, or an effort to expand your offerings. The important thing is to always evaluate if the returns are worth your investment.
One way to ensure that you’ll invest your loan money somewhere worthwhile is to do market research first. Tap into your existing customer base using your business’s social media page to ask what they’d like to see more of from you. For example, if you run a restaurant, you can put up a survey on your business’s Facebook page asking customers what they think of your current offerings and what they might want to see in the future. Check the popular responses to gauge where to invest your loan money in, knowing that there’s interest for the said idea already.
5) Improve Your Current Marketing Strategy
Being financially healthy relies on being able to fulfill a consistent stream of orders, which won’t happen if people aren’t aware of your business. So don’t forget to review your current marketing strategy and see if there’s anything you can improve upon.
This may mean being more active on your business social media accounts, considering tie-ups with online influencers to promote your product, or offering a rewards program to better incentivize customer loyalty. Drumming up interest for your business will surely bring in new customers, which will make good on your loan.
If you make the right choices, your business loan will do a lot to improve your financial health instead of putting you in a position of financial uncertainty. Look to the tips above to make the most of your loan program and strengthen your business’s financial position.
Sun Life Philippines celebrates dual achievements in marketing excellence and community development.
Sun Life Philippines, the leading life insurance provider in the country, has garnered significant recognition at the prestigious Gold Quill Awards for its exemplary marketing campaigns. Simultaneously, its philanthropic arm, Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), continues to make strides in promoting food security and livelihood sustainability in remote areas.
Excellence in Communication: Gold Quill Awards Triumph
Sun Life Philippines was honored at the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Gold Quill Awards, securing three distinguished awards for its innovative marketing initiatives. The company received an Award of Excellence for its Brand Health Journey and an Award of Merit for its Freedom to Live Brighter campaign. Additionally, Sun Life’s Client Experience & Marketing Departments were bestowed with the Team of the Year Special Award.
The Brand Health Journey aimed to maintain Sun Life’s status as a top-of-mind brand in the Philippines by deploying comprehensive digital and traditional advertising campaigns. These efforts ensured a wider reach, encouraging more Filipinos to secure their health and wealth.
The Freedom to Live Brighter campaign, a refreshed financial literacy advocacy, targeted younger audiences through engaging digital films created by Sun Life’s Gen Z multimedia artists. This campaign successfully boosted financial literacy awareness among the younger demographic, significantly enhancing the company’s appeal to this age group.
Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience & Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We share this achievement with our clients, who inspire us to be innovative. We will continue striving for excellence in communication to help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and healthier lives.”
Promoting Food Security and Sustainability in Surigao del Norte
Parallel to its marketing success, Sun Life Foundation has made significant contributions to community development through its Food Shed Farming Enterprise project in Surigao del Norte. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines, aims to enhance food security and provide sustainable agriculture-based livelihoods to the barangays of Caub and Halian in Del Carmen.
The remote locations of these barangays have historically faced challenges in food supply due to their reliance on the main Siargao island and Surigao City. The new food sheds, equipped with sustainable technologies, are designed to mitigate these challenges. They ensure access to safe and quality food, reduce dependency on external supplies, and boost local income by facilitating market linkages.
Furthermore, the project incorporates climate-adaptive farming techniques and financial education to ensure long-term sustainability. The food sheds directly benefit 250 individuals and indirectly improve the lives of 2,943 barangay residents by providing fresh, locally-produced, nutrient-rich food.
Sun Life Foundation’s commitment to health, education, and environmental sustainability underscores its mission to uplift the lives of marginalized Filipinos. Through initiatives like the Food Shed Farming Enterprise, the Foundation aims to build a brighter future for all.
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2023, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.37 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.
Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
For a country with such an intense appreciation (and appetite!) for food, it seems like the Philippines has not given enough priority to the people who grow it.
Clearly, the plight of Filipino farmers needs to be addressed.
Dire outlook for agricultural sector
According to 2021 data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), farmers and fisherfolk remain the poorest among the population. Belonging to the bottom 50% earners in the country, many farmers number among the nearly 20 million Filipinos living in extreme poverty.
And they are dwindling.
A separate report shows that the average age of Filipino farmers is now 57, up from 44 in 1971. Pretty soon, they will age out of the occupation with no one to take their place, not even their children. Rice farmers discourage their kids from pursuing farming as a career, holding the opinion that rice farming is physically tiring and not economically rewarding.
To counter these dire outlooks, the farming sector needs to be fully supported and empowered, equipped with knowledge and resources to survive and thrive amidst the challenges it continues to face.
Respect-driven initiatives for Filipino farmers
Lingap LEADS Foundation, Inc., the social development arm of the Leads Group of Companies, serves as the country’s premier advocate for the occupational health and safety for farmers. It seeks to rekindle the recognition of the crucial role that farmers play and to invest in their overall well-being.
The ten-person Lingap LEADS team led by Executive Director Dr. Angelique Malveda seeks to redefine Filipino farmers are visionary leaders. It shifted its initiatives from being based on charity and dole-outs to being rooted in respect, through initiatives that empower farmers and provide them with sustainable support.
To address the multi-faceted needs of farmers, Lingap LEADS focuses its efforts towards the following:
Lingap-Kasaka: Programs that promote the livelihood, health and welfare of farmers
Lingap Kapatid: Programs that assist people in need through collaborations with other foundations
Lingap Kapamilya: Programs in conjunction with the workforce and affiliated entities of its parent company
Stepping into farmers’ shoes
The hardships of rice planting are immortalized in the folk song “Magtanim ay ‘di Biro,” citing how farmers spend the day doing back-breaking work with almost no rest.
During its recent launch event for Harvesting Reverence, the foundation facilitated a unique and memorable way for my fellow bloggers and myself to truly appreciate the travails of local farmers: a hands-on rice planting experience!
Me with my fellow bloggers
On my way to my hands-on rice planting experience
“Magtanim ay di’biro!”
Yep, I rolled up my sleeves, got down to the field and planted rice stalks on the muddy ground. Definitely, my ten minutes of stomping in the mud – equipped with my salakot and protective gear – are nothing compared to the long and exhausting hours that farmers expend in growing food.
It was quite a humbling and eye-opening experience and it brought to mind the need to support and uplift Filipino farmers.
Paving the way towards sustainability
Lingap LEADS also introduced its programs geared towards supporting four priorityamong the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) espoused by the United Nations (UN):
SDG#3 Good Health and Well-being (Lingap Kalusugan). Programs on health education, health care and health financing to promote farm occupational health and safety such as Lingap Lakbay Kalusugan that delivers free diagnostic test packages to underserved communities.
SDG#4 Quality Education (Lingap Kinabukasan). Programs that fuel the pursuit of knowledge that leads to a brighter future such as the Angat Pinoy Scholarship Program that helps farmers’ children and other students to continue their education.
SDG#8 Decent Work and Economic Growth (Lingap Kabuhayan). Programs that empower farmers through sustainable livelihood opportunities through respect-driven initiatives that uplift their economic well-being for long term prosperity. This includes Social EnterRICE which provides independent rice farmers with free access to Leads Agriventure’s premium Jackpot rice seeds, buys the harvest at above market price and funnels profits from sales of Jackpot rice into more programs that elevates the farmers.
SDG#13 Climate Action (Lingap Kalikasan). Programs that promote the best environmental conservation practices in the Leads Group worksites and the communities it serves. These include Planet CPR‘s sustainable plastic waste management drive that upcycles plastic bottles.
Lingap LEADS Executive Director Dr Angelique Malveda
Lingap LEADS Marketing Director Connie Valera
Mother Earth Foundation PH Executive Director Germaine de Runa introduces priority Social Development Goals (SDGs)
Radyo CSR Executive Producer and Co-Anchor Max Ventura lauded the LEADS Group for its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives
We depend so much on Filipino farmers to keep our citizens fed while still ensuring that our natural resources are maintained and cultivated for future generations.
It’s about time that they receive – not just our support and appreciation- but also our respect in return, right?
Thank you to Lingap LEADS Foundation for inviting me to its launch event!
For more information on Lingap LEADS Foundation and how you can support its programs, follow it on Facebook, call +63 917 1546247 or email partnership@lingapleads.org.
As we progress through life’s stages, we encounter various financial challenges, from securing our loved ones’ futures to achieving our own goals. In a world where financial stability is the key to securing a brighter future, having a trusted partner on your side to navigate the complex world of finance is invaluable. This is where Sun Life Financial Advisors step in, helping individuals and families make the right financial decisions at every turn.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career that allows you to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, becoming a Sun Life Financial Advisor could be your calling.
Together with fellow blogger Mommy Sigrid, I recently spent a week with the members of the Macaulay Club – the creme de la creme of Sun Life’s Financial Advisors – during their incentive trip to Nagoya, Japan where I was able to hear inspiring stories of their personal journeys while immersing ourselves in the beauty and culture of Japan.
If you want to explore this remarkable profession, here are six facts you need to know.
Fact 1: It is much more than simply selling insurance policies
Being a Sun Life Financial Advisor is about guiding individuals towards financial security and helping them achieve their goals. Sun Life Advisors assist clients in selecting the perfect mix of investment and insurance products to match their unique financial objectives: whether they are just starting out, moving up in life, planning for retirement or aiming to leave a lasting legacy to their families.
Beyond that, they also play a crucial role in promoting wellness programs and innovative health solutions, aiding clients in leading healthier, more prosperous lives in every life stage.
Fact 2: Sun Life Financial Advisors are in the business of helping people
The role of a Sun Life Financial Advisor is multi-faceted. It’s about cultivating relationships, providing tailored financial advice, and ensuring that clients are equipped to protect their financial future.
Advisors usually connect with prospects within their networks and communities, or build new ones from scratch. They review their clients’ goals, and offer trusted advice on life and health insurance products to mitigate risks.
Jennelyn Badile started as a working student. She also pursues Tiktok affiliate marketing.
Robert Chua keeps his head on fulfilling and overshooting his targets to sustain his tip-top performance.
Though retired, Lito dela Cruz, still brings in the sales from his extensive networks
Jennie Laurelles started her Tiktok page – @prettyfinancial – as a creative challenge to herself in spreading information on financial literacy during the pandemic.
They also grow with their clientele, providing personalized, ongoing financial solutions that help clients work toward their long-term investment and retirement goals.
By building a network of satisfied clients, Financial Advisors ensure their businesses continue to grow through referrals.
Fact 3: It requires rigorous training, certification and the right set of skills
Becoming a certified Sun Life Financial Advisor is not a simple task; it requires dedication and a commitment to lifelong learning. The process is composed of five steps, ensuring that all Sun Life Financial Advisors are well-prepared to spread the message of financial literacy:
Join a #LiveBrighter Forum to learn more about the world of Sun Life Financial Advisors.
Attend interviews or take the Personality Orientation Profile (POP) Screen Test to assess your compatibility with the field.
Complete the Sun Life Training Course, which covers insurance concepts, ethical standards, and product discussions.
Take the Licensing Exam at the Insurance Commission with Sun Life’s assistance.
Finalize the contracting and coding process to establish expectations for a successful business or career.
But it’s not just about completing these steps; it’s about possessing the right qualities and skills that are essential for success in this role. To shine as a Sun Life Financial Advisor, you should be:
Self-motivated, highly driven, and entrepreneurial: This career demands a proactive approach, where you take the initiative to build your business and help clients achieve their financial goals.
Goal-oriented with a strong work ethic: Setting and achieving goals is fundamental in this profession. A robust work ethic ensures you provide the best service to your clients.
Continuous learner with a deep interest in client needs: Staying informed about financial trends and being genuinely interested in your clients’ needs is essential for providing relevant advice.
Ability to develop and maintain relationships: Building strong, lasting relationships with your clients is at the heart of this role. Trust and rapport are the foundations of successful financial advising.
Excellent communication skills: Clear and effective communication is key to explaining complex financial concepts to your clients and helping them make informed decisions.
Persuasive, able to motivate others to action: Encouraging your clients to take action and make the right financial choices is a crucial part of your role.
Business development and prospecting skills: To grow your client base, you must be adept at identifying potential clients and expanding your network.
A passion for putting clients first: Ultimately, your success as a Sun Life Financial Advisor is measured by your clients’ success. Putting their interests first and being able to close deals is vital.
When Yogie Legaspi, now a Branch Manager, received her first Sun Life check, she realized she could send her son to a top-tier school as well as fulfill other big dreams
Branch Manager Ciony Repospolo, here with her husband Art, dreamed of having a job without having to return to being an OFW which she achieved through Sun Life.
Sun Life helped Unit Manager Kristine Leechiu-Tan‘s family recover from major financial difficulties, which prompted her and two of her siblings to join the insurance industry and help other families avoid similar circumstances.
Cluster Head Ging de Venecia, appreciates her new role which gives her more opportunities to stay engaged with the agency force.
Fact 4: Sun Life provides ongoing training and sound support systems for Financial Advisors
Sun Life places a strong emphasis on the continuous learning and self-development of its Financial Advisors. It offers various training modules, including basic training, rookie development programs, financial planning, estate planning, personality development, management development, and advisor development courses. These resources ensure that advisors have the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles and provide quality advice to their clients.
To empower its Financial Advisors for success, Sun Life goes the extra mile by offering comprehensive support systems. These go beyond basic training and cover a wide spectrum of essential aspects:
Dedicated leadership support and head office specialists: At Sun Life, you’re not alone on your journey. You have access to dedicated leaders and specialized head office professionals who are there to guide and support you throughout your career. Their experience and expertise can make a significant difference in your success.
Great peer-to-peer networking, educational, and training opportunities: Learning and growing are central to a successful career as a Financial Advisor, and Sun Life facilitates this through peer-to-peer networking and a wealth of educational and training opportunities. You can connect with fellow advisors, learn from their experiences, and access ongoing education to stay at the forefront of the industry.
Industry-leading technology and business services: Sun Life provides access to cutting-edge technology and business services that streamline your operations and help you serve your clients more effectively. This ensures you have the tools and resources to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
National advertising and personalized marketing collateral: Sun Life recognizes the importance of branding and marketing in today’s competitive environment. As a Financial Advisor, you benefit from national advertising efforts and receive personalized marketing collateral to promote your services, enhancing your reach and impact in the market.
Chief Distribution Officer Al Quitangon challenges the Macaulay Club members to pass on their legacy of excellence to new Financial Advisors
President Alex Narciso instituted the ASN Awards – rewarding Sun Lifers who insured 37 lives within the last quarter of 2023.
CEO and Country Head Benedict Sison joins the Macaulay Club during their Nagoya Trip
Sun Life Leadership Team signals the start of the Macaulay Club’s Gala Night by breaking the seal of the sake barrels
Becoming a Sun Life Financial Advisor is not just a one-dimensional journey. It opens up a career path with a multitude of opportunities for personal and professional growth. As you embark on this path, you can expect to evolve through several key roles:
Advisor: Your journey begins as an Advisor, where you provide financial and insurance advice to clients, helping them navigate the complex world of finance.
Unit Manager: For those with leadership potential, the next step is becoming a Unit Manager. In this role, you recruit and manage a group of Advisors, guiding them on their own journeys to success.
Sales Manager: Transitioning to a Sales Manager marks your preparation for establishing your own New Business Office (NBO). As a Sales Manager, you manage several Unit Managers and Advisors, honing your leadership skills and expanding your influence.
New Business Manager: This is the pinnacle of the career path. As the head of a New Business Office, you oversee Sales Managers, Unit Managers, and Advisors, leading a dynamic team to greater heights.
Sun Life empowers you to explore these career opportunities, ensuring that your journey is not just fulfilling but also marked by continuous growth and advancement.
Fact 5: Sun Life Financial Advisors enjoy amazing rewards and benefits
The work of a Sun Life Financial Advisor may be demanding but it is a highly rewarding career. Advisors have the opportunity to write their own paycheck with unlimited income potential. They earn commissions for up to 10 years per paying client, which provides a unique source of passive income. Sun Life also offers monthly bonuses, incentives, free group insurance, subsidized health insurance, and both local and international travel incentives. After just two years of tenure, advisors can participate in a retirement plan. They also have access to free training and seminars to further enhance their skills.
There is little wonder then, that having seen the perks enjoyed by Sun Life Financial Advisors, family members soon find themselves joining in the business and becoming Sun Lifers themselves.
Fact 6: Top-Performing Financial Advisors enjoy even more rewards
The Macaulay Club, a community of Sun Life Advisors inspired by company luminaries Robertson and Thomas Macaulay, are comprised of Sun Life’s top-performing Financial Advisors. The Club is a testament to the exceptional rewards this career path can offer with qualifying club members getting to enjoy incentives like this year’s domestic trip to Boracay in Aklan and international trip to Nagoya, Japan, where they not only enjoyed the perks of being a Sun Lifer but also stepped outside their comfort zones to learn more about themselves and their peers.
However, the Macaulay Club goes beyond personal rewards; it’s a community of people who are committed to giving back. The club spearheads initiatives that support marginalized Filipino communities through donations and volunteerism with education-oriented projects, such as the Yellow School Boat Project, Children of Asia, Agusan Marshlands Floating Daycare Center, and Children of Asian and World Vision.
This year, the Macaulay Club seeks to extend its reach by providing light and other resources to last-mile schools in far-flung mountains and isolated islands in the Sarangani Province. These schools often have makeshift furnishings, very few textbooks, intermittent electricity, multi-grade classes, and cater to less than 100 learners, mostly from indigenous communities. Teachers must travel for hours on challenging terrain, and the schools lack electricity, making mentoring and monitoring difficult. The Club’s project will introduce solar-powered printing and lighting systems to help these schools cope with the demands of full face-to-face classes post-COVID, benefiting indigenous children and youth in disadvantaged communities, while improving the safety, efficiency and productivity of teachers serving the communities.
Having spent quite some time with this bunch of happy and inspiring people, I can see that being a Sun Life Financial Advisor is a career path that not only promises financial success but also the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. By providing essential financial advice and guidance, you’ll help individuals and families secure their financial futures and build a brighter life.
If you’re ready to embark on this rewarding journey, why don’t you take the first step towards becoming a Sun Life Financial Advisor by visiting Sun Life’s advisor application page. Join the ranks of successful advisors at Sun Life, and start making a positive impact on the world of finance and the lives of the people you’ll serve.
Many thanks to the Macaulay Club Sun Lifers who shared their stories with me and Mommy Sigrid!
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2022, Sun Life had total assets under management of CAD 1.33 trillion. For more information, please visit http://www.sunlife.com.
Disclosure: Together with Mommy Sigrid, I was awarded an all-expense paid trip to Nagoya, Japan, joining the international trip qualifiers of the Macaulay Club, after winning the first Sun Talks Digital Media Edition contest for bloggers. We were under no obligation to write about the experience but we wanted to share stories and useful information to people who might be interested in pursuing this career.
For the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), the dream of having a permanent home was a vision nurtured for 75 long years. Founded by Purita Kalaw Ledesma in 1948, AAP began as a social group with a mission to support and elevate the Filipino art scene.
Over the years, it grew into the largest and oldest umbrella organization for artists in the Philippines, boasting a membership of 12,000 individuals, including national artists and international luminaries like Vicente Manansala, Jose Joya, Ang Kiukok, Jerry Navarro, Frederico Aguilar Alcuaz, Botong Francisco, and the living legend BenCab.
But despite its illustrious history and the significant role it played in shaping the Filipino art landscape, AAP remained homeless for the better part of its existence. That was until recently when a group of dedicated officers, led by master visual artist Fidel Sarmiento, decided to make the dream of a permanent home for AAP a reality.
A 75-Year Journey
AAP’s journey began as a social group, but the dream of having a dedicated space for artists was always at the core of its mission. The idea was to create not just an office or a gallery but an all-encompassing educational center where artists could thrive and evolve.
The dream of a permanent home for AAP was not just about owning a piece of property; it was about creating a sanctuary for artists, a place where creativity could flourish unencumbered. It was about having a space that would also serve as a base of operations for the organization, an office, a gallery to showcase notable works, and an educational center all in one.
Realizing the dream of AAP’s Tahanan ng Sining required a formidable financial effort. The AAP officers, alongside a vast network of artists and friends, undertook a massive fundraising campaign to gather the necessary funds. Their determination was unwavering as they orchestrated various events and initiatives to generate financial support. Artists generously donated their works for a one-night auction in December 2019, where the AAP raised an impressive 4.5 million pesos.
The AAP team scoured Metro Manila and beyond, seeking opportunities and partnerships to secure funds. These efforts included exhibits at premier venues like The Podium and Aura, orchestrated in collaboration with SM, yielding close to a million pesos. Students from Sunshine Place in Jupiter, Makati, where Fidel Sarmiento imparts his painting expertise, also stepped up, contributing both in cash and kind. Pro bono work and in-kind donations from dedicated individuals, contractors, engineers, and artists further fueled this ambitious undertaking.
Despite the financial hurdles, the determination to give AAP a permanent home remained steadfast, epitomizing the spirit of unity and resilience within the Filipino art community.
The Inauguration of the AAP Tahanan ng Sining
The culmination of years of hard work and dedication came to fruition with the inauguration of the AAP Tahanan ng Sining. This impressive two-story structure, located on a 200-square-meter lot in Silang, Cavite, in Metro Tagaytay, is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the resilience and unwavering commitment of AAP to the Filipino art community.
AAP’s new home is not merely a physical space; it is a manifestation of a dream and a promise of what’s to come. It aspires to serve as a central office for artists from all corners of the Philippines, bridging the gap between Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It is a gallery where artists can exhibit their works, especially those from outside Metro Manila, who may not have the resources to secure exhibition spaces. Furthermore, it is an educational center where high school students can participate in regular workshops, nurturing the next generation of Filipino artists.
The journey of AAP towards realizing its dream of a permanent home has been long and challenging, but it stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Filipino artists. With AAP’s Tahanan ng Sining, AAP now has a place to call its own, a sanctuary where creativity can flourish, and where the legacy of Filipino art can continue to grow.
As the AAP Tahanan ng Sining opens its doors to artists and art enthusiasts alike, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the rich history of the Art Association of the Philippines. It is a chapter filled with promise, where the dreams of the past meet the possibilities of the future.
The AAP Tahanan ng Sining is located at Lot 4, Purok 5, San Isidro Labrador Residences, Barangay Ulat, Metro Tagaytay, Silang Cavite.
Know more about the Art Association of the Philippines and its initiatives by joining its Facebook Group.
![[KV 1] Right to Care](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53847744168_19b74b290e_c.jpg)
Jellybeans in the City 