healthier lives – Jellybeans in the City

Sun Life, a leading financial services company, is set to breathe new life into basketball courts and inspire healthier lifestyles among marginalized youth in communities across Asia with a generous donation of PHP 40 million. This philanthropic initiative, undertaken in partnership with Beyond Sport, a global sport-for-social-change foundation, aims to tackle the alarming rates of physical inactivity and sedentary behavior among children and adolescents in the region.

Answering the Call: Sun Life’s Response to Alarming Health Trends

The drive behind this inspiring endeavor stems from the findings of the 2022 Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance report, sponsored by Sun Life. This comprehensive study shed light on the troubling rise of physical inactivity among Asian youth, contributing to a slew of health issues including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, mental health challenges, and more.

According to the report, several Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, scored dismally in terms of overall physical activity, with Hong Kong and Malaysia receiving a grade of ‘D,’ and Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam falling into the ‘F’ category. This means that fewer than 20% of children ages 6 to 17 are achieving an average of at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout the week.

Sun Life Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer, Carla Gonzalez-Chong, remarked, “Promoting movement is an important aspect of Sun Life’s health and wellness advocacy. We constantly explore fun and engaging ways to promote it among Filipinos, especially the youth. For this particular initiative, we took inspiration in our country’s love for basketball so we can encourage everyone to make physical activity a part of their lifestyle.”

Beyond Sport: A Collaborative Approach for Positive Change

Beyond Sport Executive Director, Fred Turner, emphasized that young people worldwide face barriers to accessing sports and the multitude of benefits it offers. Often, these barriers boil down to having a safe space to move and play. “We are proud to partner with Sun Life to improve physical and mental wellbeing outcomes for marginalized youth. We hope this program, built with community and sustainability in mind, will help them develop life-long habits that will allow them to thrive.”

#MovementMatters Gains Momentum

The ambitious initiative aligns seamlessly with Sun Life’s #MovementMatters campaign, which champions physical activity as a pivotal component of healthier living.

The campaign was launched with great enthusiasm through a 3×3 charity event held simultaneously in Manila and Jakarta, Indonesia, from August 18 to 20. In Manila, the “Sun Life 3×3 Charity Challenge” took place at SM Megamall, boasting a participation of 349 individuals, including celebrities and basketball influencers such as Gab Banal, Ael Banal, Brent Javier, Jollo Go, Andre Felix, Thor Gomez, Brent Paraiso, John Custodio, Axel Torres, Pat Sugui, Kirst Viray, Ralph Molina Martin Reyes, Miguel Aytona, Hendrix Jim, and Martin Javier.

Sun Life’s commitment to the cause was evident as they pledged PHP 4,000 for every participant in both Manila and Jakarta. Moreover, for every like, share, comment, and post on social media with the hashtag #MovementMatters, they contributed to a cumulative donation of PHP 40 million.

The event also dovetailed with the participation of Team Canada and its top players in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup taking place in Manila, with Sun Life serving as the Official Health & Wellness Partner of Canada Basketball.

“We’re thrilled about the momentum we’ve set for the #MovementMatters campaign and look forward to everyone’s continued support,” exclaimed Gonzalez-Chong. “With our concerted efforts, we can certainly help more people live healthier lives.”

Sun Life’s substantial contribution and dedication to fostering healthier futures for Asia’s marginalized youth exemplify the positive impact that corporate social responsibility can have on communities across the continent.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

In celebration of the Philippines’ independence this June, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. has unveiled its sustainability agenda, reaffirming its commitment to helping Filipinos achieve financial freedom and brighter lives.

Sun Life’s Long-standing Commitment to Sustainability

For over 128 years, Sun Life has prioritized sustainability not only within its Philippine office but also as part of the global organization. Benedict Sison, CEO & Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, emphasized the company’s alignment with sustainability goals and its engagement in philanthropic and environmental initiatives. He stated, “As a life insurance and asset management business, we are naturally aligned with sustainability goals apart from pursuing philanthropic and environmental projects.”

Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Sun Life’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through initiatives that support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The company focuses on areas where it can have the most positive social and environmental impact, including Increasing Financial Security, Fostering Healthier Lives, Advancing Sustainable Investing, Operating as a Trusted and Responsible Business, and Uplifting Communities. Sun Life’s sustained advocacy for these causes is showcased on their sustainability journey page, available at www.sunlife.co/SustainabilityPH.

Sison highlighted Sun Life’s dedication to creating a positive impact and empowering Filipinos to achieve financial security and healthier living for future generations. He said, “We aspire for our people and our solutions to make a difference in Filipino lives, empowering them to achieve financial security and healthier living for generations to come.”

Financial Independence Month: Empowering Filipinos

Continuing its mission to enhance financial security among Filipinos, Sun Life is once again celebrating June as Financial Independence Month. The company aims to empower individuals through relevant and engaging content that conveys the message, “Freedom starts with a choice. Kaya mo ‘yan!” (You can do it!)

Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life, emphasized the significance of Financial Independence Month, stating, “Our rallying cry for this year shows our confidence in the Filipinos’ power to bring their goals to life.” She expressed Sun Life’s commitment to support individuals on their journey towards financial freedom and the vision of helping Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security.

Inspiring Short Films and Learning Modules

To inspire and motivate individuals, Sun Life has produced four short films created by its in-house team of young creatives. These films share heartwarming stories of Filipinos who made the choice to take control of their future and realize their goals:

“Sinag” by Mei Solis tells the story of a daughter struggling to connect with her Overseas Filipino mother until they discover a shared goal of being together for good.
“Kulay” by Casey Borja explores the world of a child on the autism spectrum who brings hope to his business-owner father during a crucial time.
“Ngayon at Bukas” by JC Manzano depicts the struggle of a son in search of his path, which unexpectedly leads him to his father’s humble barber shop.
“Para Sa Akin” by Bea Aguilera humorously portrays how a string of bad luck can ironically lead to finding a bright partner.

Starting from June 19, these films will be available on www.sunlife.co/KayaMoYan. Complementing the films, Sun Life is offering free learning modules for individuals seeking to build their financial portfolio. The message will be further amplified through content on Sun Life’s social platforms, including @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Sustaining a More Sustainable Future

Sison affirmed Sun Life’s commitment as a partner in achieving a more sustainable future for Filipinos. He expressed appreciation for the progress made thus far and eagerly anticipated future milestones, with the goal of enabling more individuals to experience the freedom of living brighter.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Header image by Freepik