Lighting the Way: Sun Life at 130

As Sun Life celebrates 130 years of service in the Philippines, the country’s oldest life insurance company is choosing to mark the milestone not with fanfare, but with purpose. This anniversary is anchored in a deeper mission: to empower Filipinos toward lifetime financial security and healthier lives through a new wave of sustainability-focused initiatives.

At the core of the celebration is the Circle of Light program, a unique collaboration with Liter of Light, the National Museum of the Philippines, and local pottery studio Odangputik Art Space. Together with its Clients, advisors, and employees, Sun Life is set to build at least 3,500 solar-powered lamps—combining creativity, clean energy, and community.

These handmade lamps will first be displayed in an art installation at the National Museum, where the fusion of light and local artistry will be on full display. More than a visual spectacle, the exhibit will also aim for a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title—the largest display of solar-powered lamps, placing the Philippines on the global sustainability map.

The celebration doesn’t end in the museum. In partnership with the Department of Education, Sun Life will donate the solar lamps to communities that live without electricity. For students in these areas, the lamps represent more than light—they represent access to education, safety, and hope.

“Our 130th year is not just a celebration of longevity, but a recommitment to our values,” said Benedict Sison, CEO & Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “Circle of Light reflects our desire to bring illumination, literally and figuratively, to Filipino lives.”

On the financial literacy front, Sun Life continues its Coffee and Play series, where learning about money becomes engaging through a custom board game called Play for Life: A Game of Choices. Hosted in coffee shops nationwide, these sessions make financial planning more approachable and enjoyable.

Furthering its advocacy, the company’s Sun Pera-Aralan program—launched in 2018—continues to grow. Designed to help public school teachers manage their finances, it provides structured lessons and budgeting tools. By 2025, the program aims to reach 130,000 teachers, leaving a lasting impact on the education sector.

Health and well-being are also in focus. Sun Life recently rolled out OFW Health Protect, a tailor-made plan to safeguard Overseas Filipino Workers in times of medical emergency, providing peace of mind for those building futures abroad.

In schools across Metro Manila, the Hoops + Health program will expand, bringing sports equipment and wellness workshops to 130 schools—promoting not only physical health but also the joy of movement and play.

“Through these efforts,” Sison said, “we shine our light forward. We’re not just looking back at 130 years—we’re lighting the path ahead for generations to come.”