MANILA, PH – (September 2026) – Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) and Children of Asia have recently renewed their collaboration for Project SUNRISE. As partners, they continue to help Cebu youth stay in school, prepare for future careers, and build brighter futures.
Helping 125 Cebu scholars stay in school
Through Project SUNRISE, 125 high school and college students receive financial assistance. They live in Cebu City and in the municipalities of Alegria, Daanbantayan, Medellin, and Minglanilla. The aid covers expenses such as miscellaneous fees, uniforms, and school supplies. Sun Life Foundation and Children of Asia also renew the program every year, and it will continue until all the scholars graduate from college.
Project SUNRISE launched in 2020. It aims to help address a persistent challenge in the Philippines, where one in four youth is out of school.
The program also supports the students’ holistic development. Scholars take additional courses, join career development orientations, and attend soft skills training to strengthen their future employability. Meanwhile, their families receive post-disaster support, individualized aid, and parent learning sessions on child development and quality family life.
Renewal signed in Cebu City
The two organizations held a MOA signing ceremony in Cebu City to mark the continuation of the collaboration. Sun Life Philippines Country Head and CEO JJ Moreno attended, as well as Sun Life Foundation leaders: President Joy Castillo, Vice President Aleister Cruz, and Executive Director Kristine Millete. Children of Asia was also represented by its Country Director, Barbie Romeo-Guardiario, and Deputy Country Director, Andre Frossard.
“We believe that education is one of the most powerful foundations for a brighter future,” said Castillo. “With Project SUNRISE, our aim is to empower Filipino youth and enable them to remain in school, feel supported, and build a future filled with possibilities not just for themselves, but also their families and communities.”
“Project SUNRISE is about giving students from underprivileged backgrounds the support and confidence to keep moving forward, even when circumstances are difficult. This year, with the earthquake and typhoon affecting Cebu, that support has been especially meaningful,” said Romeo-Guardiario. “By helping our scholars stay in school and develop their potential, we hope they will build a better future for themselves and have the confidence and sense of responsibility to give back to their families and communities.”
Sun Life Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, the country’s first and longest-standing life insurance company. As such, it supports initiatives that expand access to education, promote health and well-being, and promote environmental sustainability in communities across the country.
