Sun Life Grows Hoops + Health: More Schools, More Youth, More Impact

Sun Life Philippines is stepping up its commitment to health and sports with the expansion of its Hoops + Health program, an initiative designed to promote active lifestyles among Filipino youth. In celebration of its 130th year in the country, Sun Life is donating basketball equipment to 130 schools across Metro Manila, helping more students embrace the joy of movement through the nation’s favorite sport.

Building on the success of last year’s program, Sun Life is partnering again with Beyond Sport, a global organization that champions sports for social change. Together, they aim to strengthen grassroots basketball by equipping schools with the tools needed to spark students’ interest in sports and encourage them to stay active. Each participating school will receive basketball essentials such as hoops, nets, balls, and training gear—removing barriers and creating opportunities for more kids to play.

But the initiative doesn’t stop with equipment. This year, Hoops + Health is expanding its reach, offering six months of free weekly basketball sessions for over 120 youth, aged 7 to 16, across Laguna, Pasig City, and Mandaluyong City. These training sessions are designed not only to develop basketball skills but also to promote fitness, discipline, and teamwork among young participants.

To further deepen its community impact, Sun Life also conducted virtual coaching workshops for 51 Filipino basketball coaches. These coaches are now equipped to mentor and guide an estimated 3,460 young people, teaching them about health, wellness, and the positive life lessons that sports can bring.

Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines, emphasized the importance of the program: “Hoops + Health reflects our mission to be a lifelong partner in helping Filipinos live healthier lives. We’ve seen how this program can energize young people and communities, and we’re excited to expand our reach this year.”

By empowering schools and communities through basketball, Sun Life continues to make health and wellness more accessible and enjoyable for Filipino youth. As the program grows, it aims to inspire the next generation to lead active, healthy lives—on and off the court.