MANILA, PHILIPPINES — April 2025 — Over 20,000 residents of Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa, are set to benefit from a new initiative targeting malnutrition and promoting early childhood development. The program, SUNBRIGHT+RCEL (Supporting Nanay in Exclusive Breastfeeding and Infant/Child Feeding for Growing Healthy Tsikiting + Responsive Caregiving and Early Learning), was officially launched through a partnership between Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. and Save the Children Philippines.

Building on the success of the original SUNBRIGHT program, the enhanced SUNBRIGHT+ initiative goes beyond nutrition by incorporating training on responsive caregiving and early learning. These approaches aim to improve child development outcomes by encouraging nurturing and consistent interactions between caregivers and children.

Recognizing the importance of inclusive caregiving, the program also promotes the active participation of male partners and caregivers—an effort supported by research showing that involved fathers contribute to better child health and development.

Approximately 600 individuals—including pregnant and lactating women, young children, parents, caregivers, community health workers, and support group members—will directly benefit from the program. Additionally, over 20,000 residents who access services from the Alabang Health Center will benefit indirectly through strengthened community-based health and nutrition support.

A ceremonial turnover marked the launch of the program, with key attendees including Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines and Chairman of the Sun Life Foundation; Aleister Cruz, Chief Strategy and Enablement Officer and Foundation Vice President; and Kristine Millete, Executive Director of Sun Life Foundation. From Save the Children Philippines, CEO Atty. Alberto Muyot and program officers were also present.

“SUNBRIGHT+ reflects our deepened commitment to community health and development,” said Sison. “With every family we reach and every child we help thrive, we are building a brighter and healthier future.”

Atty. Muyot emphasized the value of responsive caregiving, noting that “children who feel supported and safe in their early years are more likely to succeed in learning and in life.”

Sun Life Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, continues its mission to build a brighter future for Filipinos through sustainable programs focused on health, education, and the environment.