Village Connect
In the heart of Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa, a new initiative is set to transform the lives of thousands. The Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) and Save the Children Philippines have launched SUNBRIGHT+, a program designed to combat malnutrition and promote healthy child development in the community.
With over 20,000 residents standing to benefit, SUNBRIGHT+ takes a holistic approach to child nutrition and caregiving. It provides training on Responsive Caregiving and Early Learning, a method that enhances child development through nurturing and consistent parent-child interactions. Recognizing the vital role of fathers and male caregivers, the program also aims to foster greater involvement from them, acknowledging research that links their participation to improved health outcomes for children.
At the core of SUNBRIGHT+ are 600 direct beneficiaries, including pregnant and lactating mothers, children, parents, caregivers, health workers, and support group members. Indirectly, the entire community, especially those who rely on the Alabang Health Center, will gain from the strengthened healthcare and nutrition services that the program will help establish.
To mark the initiative’s official launch, a ceremonial turnover took place, attended by key leaders such as Sun Life Philippines CEO and Country Head Benedict Sison, Sun Life Philippines Chief Strategy and Enablement Officer Aleister Cruz, Sun Life Foundation Executive Director Kristine Millete, and Save the Children CEO Atty. Alberto Muyot, along with other representatives from both organizations.
SUNBRIGHT+ builds upon the success of its predecessor, SUNBRIGHT, which significantly improved breastfeeding rates and complementary feeding practices in 2023 through education and community-driven interventions.
“At Sun Life, we strive to help Filipinos live healthier, brighter lives,” said Benedict Sison. “SUNBRIGHT+ represents our continued dedication to empowering communities through health initiatives. Every step forward is a step toward a brighter future.”
Echoing this commitment, Atty. Alberto Muyot emphasized the importance of caregiving in early childhood: “Save the Children believes that responsive caregiving and early learning are crucial in shaping a child’s future, ensuring they grow in a safe and supportive environment.”
As the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, the country’s longest-standing life insurance company, the Sun Life Foundation remains committed to sustainable initiatives in education, health, and the environment—helping pave the way for a healthier and brighter future for all Filipinos.
