Pru Life UK champions climate resilience with sustainability partnerships

Pru Life UK is stepping up its commitment to sustainability through strategic partnerships that help address the negative impacts of climate change and enhance community resilience amid worsening climate-related challenges.

Through the Climate and Health Resilience Fund (CHRF) that was set up by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc across Asia and Africa, a Php 10 million grant was awarded to CARE Philippines to work with Pru Life UK for the rollout of the Sustainable Health Interventions for Eradicating Leptospirosis and Dengue (SHIELD) Project in target communities in Malabon and Valenzuela City.

Launched in March 2024, the CHRF is a USD 2 million initiative that aims to support local programmes that mitigate climate-related health risks and build community resilience in Asia and Africa.

UnionBank and Jollibee Team Up to Serve Joy This Season!

Something delicious is cooking for UnionBank Credit Cardholders! UnionBank and Jollibee, two iconic brands loved by Filipinos, have joined forces to serve an irresistible treat: for a limited time, UnionBank credit cardholders can get a free 1 – pc. Chickenjoy w/ Rice Solo with a minimum spend of Php800 at participating Jollibee stores nationwide.

This exciting collaboration is all about spreading joy and creating unforgettable moments for customers of both brands. UnionBank Credit Cardholders, who have previously enjoyed special promos featuring Jollibee classics like Jolly Spaghetti, Peach Mango Pie, and Yumburger, can now delight in the iconic Chickenjoy as part of this limited time offer.

The Recipe For Success: Chef Tatung’s Business Tips From Sun Life’s Coffee & Play Event

Max Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs were in for a treat as renowned restaurateur and content creator Chef Tatung Sarthou graced Sun Life’s Coffee and Play event held at The Kitchen by Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in BGC last November 29, 2024.

While having a cooking demo, Chef Tatung shared his experiences and discussed the key ingredients of a successful food and restaurant business. Here are some of the key takeaways from his talk.

Sleigh the holidays with the perfect family car

When it comes to family life, space, comfort and convenience are our utmost priority when it comes to choosing a vehicle. Whether it’s weekend getaways or long out-of-town drives this holiday season, the right car can make all the difference. 

Today’s family-friendly vehicles come in all shapes and sizes to match your needs and lifestyle. Here are some options you can consider when choosing a car for your family.

Pru Life UK brings clean water and long-term community resilience to Bantayanons

In an uplifting effort to improve lives, Pru Life UK has launched the Ulan Alang sa Bantayan (Rain for Bantayan) programme, offering clean water and building long-term community resilience to residents of Bantayan Island, Cebu.

For years, families on the island have struggled with limited access to clean water, often walking long distances to fetch it. The Ulan Alang sa Bantayan programme has tackled this issue head-on by building two rainwater harvesting systems in Barangays Sulangan and Maricaban. Supplemented by the distribution of water containers such as pails and water jugs for each household, these systems will provide over 540 families with a 2,000-liter supply of clean water, eliminating the need for exhausting trips. Training for locals will also be conducted to ensure the facilities remain effective for years to come.

Sun Life Foundation Turns Over Four New Barangay Health Stations in Central Luzon

Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF) As part of its ongoing commitment to expand healthcare access, Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) recently turned over four new Barangay Health Stations (BHS) in Central Luzon.

A joint initiative with Health Futures Foundation, Inc. (HFI), the Sun Life Barangay Health Stations program aims to bring primary health services like regular health monitoring, prenatal checkups, and health education closer to remote communities. It also encourages residents to take part in managing their health through the Community-Based Health and Wellness Program (CBHWP), where a Community Health Nurse equips community members with knowledge and skills to serve as Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, and Cluster Leaders.

Sun Life Foundation enhances mangrove conservation in Samar and Biliran

Mangrove conservation in Eastern Visayas gets a boost as Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) and ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. (ABS-CBN Foundation) launch the Integrated Mangrove Citizen Science and Sustainable Livelihood Initiative.

Mangroves are vital ecosystems that act as carbon sinks, fish nurseries, livelihood sources, and natural breakwaters, yet they are rapidly disappearing. The project, made possible by funding from global financial services company Sun Life Canada, aims to improve mangrove conservation by supporting community-based social enterprises and equipping locals with tools and techniques for enhanced mangrove management.

EastWest Recognized in PDI-Statista Best Employers Awards

EastWest’s empowerment starts from within. In line with its 30th anniversary, the EastWest community comes together to celebrate the Bank’s inclusion in the PDI-Statista Best Employers list. This recognition is the culmination of EastWest’s continued passion for fostering an inclusive, dynamic workplace culture that empowers its people and strengthens its connection to the Filipino community, proving its shared promise of going “Further for You.” 

EastWest has been named one of the Philippines' Best Employers by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista, a global leader in data analytics and market research. This recognition comes as the Bank celebrates its 30th Anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to fostering an engaging and empowering workplace for its employees.

Spend Smart, Stress Less: Simplify your holiday spending

The holidays are a time to celebrate and give, but they can also get expensive and stressful if we’re not careful. To keep the season joyful (and budget-friendly), a few smart spending habits can go a long way. From setting a holiday budget and organizing your gift list, there’s a way to make the most of the season hassle-free while staying on top of your finances.

Set a budget (and your gift list!)

Setting a holiday budget can feel overwhelming—juggling gift lists, party expenses, and everything in between. The best place to start is knowing who you’re shopping for. Make a list of everyone you’d like to give a gift to and jot down a few budget-friendly ideas for each. Having a clear plan helps you avoid impulse buys and prioritize meaningful presents.

If you’re worried about sticking to your budget, PSBank Mobile app’s fund transfer fea

Avia Estate Brings Holiday Cheer to Sarangani with the Launch of its Christmas Village

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation’s (Alsons Dev) has introduced a new holiday tradition at its master-planned township in Alabel, Sarangani with the unveiling of the Paskuhan sa Avia Estate—a vibrant destination offering festive activities and programs that bring the community together.

The Paskuhan sa Avia Estate Welcome Arc, adorned with vibrant local Pinoy materials, welcomes visitors into the wonderful holiday experience.

The Paskuhan sa Avia Estate, which celebrates the charm of Paskong Pinoy with traditional Filipino Christmas motifs, was formally launched last November 29. The grand event featured an exciting countdown to the lighting ceremony, followed by a guided walkthrough of the Model Village. Guests enjoyed a heartwarming choral performance by the General Santos Youth Orchestra and Choir, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Visa empowers OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners with seamless remittance solutions

As holiday remittances peak, Visa enhances its commitment to simplifying and securing digital money transfers for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners worldwide.

Remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), digital workers, and SME owners surge during the holiday season, as many Filipinos abroad send extra funds to support family celebrations, year-end expenses, and business investments. In December 2023, remittances hit a record $3.6 billion, a 3.9% increase from the previous year. This seasonal boost provides essential financial support for Filipino households and local businesses, covering holiday needs and fueling consumer spending.

Digital money movement solutions are making it easier than ever for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners to send money home. This has driven a surge in remittance volumes, especially during the holiday season. With 75% of Filipino senders using digital apps in 2023, according to Visa's Money Travels: 2024 Annual Remittances Adoption report, they can transfer funds with greater convenience, speed, and security.

Unwrap the Season's Best Shopping Deals with GCash

Bookmark this Merry GCash Guide to the Best Deals & Get the Chance to Win PHP 10K! 

The countdown to Christmas is in full swing, and everybody’s busy rushing to the malls and checking out their carts with only a few days left. If you’re still working through your gifting list for the year, there are tons of deals worth checking out right now thanks to GCash!

This year’s Merry GCash celebration is the biggest one yet. Whether you’re paying online at your go-to brands or scanning to pay in-store, GCash has tons of incredible deals and offers for you to enjoy and make every experience more rewarding. 

From food and dining promos perfect for reunions, essentials for a festive Noche Buena at home, and even brand new gadgets for gifting your family or yourself - there are so many deals to guarantee Lahat ay Merry this year. Now, there’s no reason to put off your shopping any longer!

Here’s what you need to know about these deals: 

Kickstart Your 2025 Financial Goals with Smart New Year Financial Tips

As the new year approaches, it's the perfect time to set robust financial goals for a prosperous future. The beginning of a new year symbolizes a fresh start, making it an ideal moment to reassess your financial situation and plan for the future. Whether it’s managing debt, saving for a significant purchase, or simply budgeting more effectively, taking proactive steps now can set the tone for a financially successful year ahead. Mocasa, the Philippines’ first virtual credit wallet, is here to support you with practical tips designed to help you achieve your financial resolutions with ease and confidence.

Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines Recognized for Excellence in Workplace Culture and DEI&B

Sun Life Global Solutions (SLGS) Philippines, the Global Capability Centre and microcosm of the global insurance and asset management leader Sun Life, has recently received several prestigious awards. As an exemplary employer, the organization has been certified as a Great Place to Work and cited as one of Prosple’s Top Employers for Fresh Graduates. Its commitment to diversity and inclusion has been recognized at the Bahaghari Awards by the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) and the Asia CEO Awards.

SLGS Philippines Team in one of the Leaders’ Moment sessions 

Based on an independent employee survey, SLGS Philippines has earned the Great Place to Work (GPTW) certification for the fifth time in a row. They achieved outstanding scores in areas such as workplace safety, fairness regardless of sexual orientation, race, or gender, and providing resources to help employees succeed.

Pru Life UK wins grand award at the 2024 UN Women WEPs for inclusive family support

Pru Life UK was recognized as the grand winner of the 2024 United Nations (UN) Women Philippines Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards in the Gender-Responsive Marketplace category.

This award highlights our dedication to creating products and services that prioritise inclusion, diversity, and equality.

Central to this recognition is PRUHealth FamLove, an insurance product crafted to address the needs of today’s diverse families.  

From single parents to multi-generational households and same-sex partnerships, PRUHealth FamLove provides tailored protection to ensure that all families feel supported and empowered. Know more about this product here

Pru Life UK embarks on Takaful education roadshow, starts with Davao and Cagayan de Oro

Atty. Mehol Sadain, Senior Professorial Lecturer at the Institute of Islamic Studies, University of the Philippines in Diliman, shared about Islamic finance and Shari’ah principles.

Pru Life UK, the first insurer in the Philippines to receive a Takaful or Islamic insurance license from the Insurance Commission, has embarked on a Takaful education roadshow. This aims to educate and engage key stakeholders—including select agents, the media, and local communities—on Shari’ah and Takaful. Pilot Takaful education sessions were conducted in both Davao City and Cagayan de Oro, enhancing understanding of Islamic insurance principles and fostering dialogues and collaboration with stakeholders.

Maximize Your Holiday Bonus This Festive Season

The Christmas spirit is upon us—a season of connection, gratitude, love, and joy. It is also a time for giving, but equally important, it is an opportunity to prioritize your well-being and financial future. With year-end bonuses coming in, the temptation to splurge on gifts and celebrations is strong. However, making thoughtful decisions can help nurture both your financial and personal well-being.

Here are some practical tips to help you spend your bonus wisely:

1. Save First, Spend Later

Start by setting aside a portion of your bonus for savings. Building an emergency fund or adding to your nest egg ensures you are prepared for life’s uncertainties while fostering peace of mind.

Reimagining Payments with Visa: Key Trends Shaping the Future of 2025

Innovations and consumer-driven shifts redefining the payments landscape—empowering seamless, secure, and smarter transactions in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Payments are undergoing a significant evolution, driven by advancements in technology and evolving consumer behaviors. In 2025, the payment landscape globally and in the Philippines is set to become more seamless, secure, and interconnected, according to Visa, a global leader in payments technology. These changes reflect a broader movement toward efficiency and inclusivity, reshaping how individuals and businesses engage with digital transactions. 

This shift unlocks diverse purchasing opportunities and fosters greater confidence in embracing global e-commerce. At the same time, businesses harness innovative tools to optimize operations, elevate customer experiences, and maintain a competitive edge in a tech-driven market. With the expansion of cross-border e-commerce and the adoption of dynamic security frameworks, here’s a closer look at the trends redefining how Filipinos pay, shop, and do business in 2025.

Sun Life Survey Reveals Hidden Financial and Mental Health Impacts of Type 2 Diabetes

Over half (51%) of those living with diabetes in the Philippines report a ‘severe’ or significant’ financial impact on their lives, with 89% unable to consistently afford the right care. 

81% of non-diabetics are either ‘very concerned’ or ‘concerned’ about the financial burden that would result from a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

69% of diabetics report a negative impact on their mental health.

Yet 40% of the population have never had blood sugar screening.

New research by Sun Life Asia reveals the hidden cost of living with type 2 diabetes and the condition’s financial and mental health impacts, highlighting an urgent need for education, prevention, and access to care.

Sun Life’s survey, titled Healthy Habits, Healthier Futures: Preventing Diabetes in Asia, interviewed 3,647 people across Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, about their awareness of diabetes risk factors, treatment and prevention. The survey included 600 people currently living with type 2 diabetes, providing an insight into life with the condition.

May pantawid ka na, may extra ka pa: GCash gives away cashback for supermarket and bills payment

Get up to PHP 50 in cashback when you use GCredit as your pantawid for bills payment and supermarket transactions. Subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply.

The ‘Ber months can be exciting yet financially challenging with unexpected expenses and looming deadlines. However, looking forward to the joy of celebrating with loved ones makes it all worthwhile. And with extra perks, the financial burden can be eased.

To help Filipinos get through gipit moments, finance super app GCash offers GCredit, powered by CIMB, an always-ready credit line of up to PHP 50,000. If you’re eligible, you can use GCredit when you need to borrow for your essentials. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

Sun Life lights up the holidays with festive celebrations

Sun Life, the no. 1 life insurance company in the Philippines, is illuminating the holiday season with exciting events. From the magical world of Holiday at Play at Ayala Malls Vermosa to the New Year’s Eve celebration at Ayala Avenue, Sun Life is giving Filipinos a bright and cheerful way to end their year as they plan their goals for 2025.

Experience a Magical Christmas at Holiday at Play

Sun Life is sponsoring this year’s Holiday at Play, a Christmas wonderland located at Ayala Malls Vermosa, Cavite. There are bright installations and fun activities for people of all ages to come and enjoy. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily, visitors can witness a captivating lights-and-sounds show that will transport them to a magical realm. The Holiday at Play installation will be up until January 12, 2025.

Sun Life Investment Management bags three wins in the Asset Benchmark Research Awards

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (Sun Life Investment Management) celebrates its outstanding performance at the Asset Benchmark Research Awards, solidifying its position as a leading force in the investment industry. 

The prestigious recognition program, hosted by The Asset, a leading financial information provider, honored Sun Life Investment Management as among the Top Investment House under the Local Currency Bond. Meanwhile, its Fixed Income Portfolio Manager, Chelsea Vanessa Lim, was awarded the top two spot as the Most Astute Investor for Local Currency Bonds and the number one for G3 Bonds. The awarding ceremony was held on November 7, 2024 at The Four Seasons Singapore.  

“We are grateful to accept these prestigious recognitions that show our strong entry into the industry,” says Michael Enriquez, President of Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “With the dedication and commitment of our people, we are confident that we will grow exponentially, serve even more Clients, and contribute to the dynamic Philippine investment landscape.” 

Know more about SLIMTC and its products and services by visiting www.sunlife.co/SLIMTC. 

75 Years Strong: Pacific Cross Celebrates a Legacy of Service and Innovation in Medical and Travel Insurance

This year marks the 75th anniversary of Pacific Cross, a leading provider of medical and travel insurance in the Philippines. As Pacific Cross celebrates this significant milestone, it reflects on its journey and renews its promise to be #HereForYou, helping customers achieve peace of mind through reliable, comprehensive, and accessible insurance solutions.

"As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, employees, sales partners, partner providers, and vendors who have been instrumental to our success," said Robert Wyld, President and CEO of Pacific Cross. "Your trust and support have allowed us to grow over the years. We look forward to continuing this journey together – delivering the exceptional service and peace of mind that Pacific Cross is known for. We are, and always will be, #HereForYou."