Sun Life Expands Hoops + Health Program, Donates Basketball Equipment to 130 Schools

MANILA, PH – June 2025 – Sun Life Philippines has announced the expansion of its successful Hoops + Health program, reinforcing its commitment to promoting healthier and more active lifestyles among Filipinos. In celebration of its 130th anniversary in the Philippines, Sun Life is donating basketball equipment and training gear to 130 schools across Metro Manila.

Launched in collaboration with global sport-for-social-change organization Beyond Sport, Hoops + Health forms part of Sun Life’s broader advocacy to empower communities through wellness and sports. The program taps into the Philippines’ deep passion for basketball to encourage physical activity and healthy habits, particularly among the youth.

This year, the program scales up its impact by engaging 120 youth aged 7 to 16 in more than 200 hours of free, weekly basketball training over six months. From its initial rollout in Laguna in 2024, the initiative has now expanded to include Pasig City and Mandaluyong City in 2025.

In addition to the grassroots basketball training, Sun Life—through its Foundation and in partnership with AHA! Behavioral Design—has identified 130 schools to receive comprehensive basketball equipment packages. Each set includes basketballs, hoops, nets, and other essential training gear, aimed at breaking down barriers to participation and ensuring equitable access to sports.

The program also invested in the development of local sports leaders, conducting virtual coaching workshops with 51 Filipino basketball coaches. These coaches are now equipped to reach and inspire approximately 3,460 young people with lessons on wellness, teamwork, and resilience.

“We are thrilled to continue the Hoops + Health program as this embodies our mission to be a partner in the Filipinos’ journey towards a healthier life,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “Last year, we saw firsthand the enthusiasm and positive impact this initiative had on young people. By equipping more schools with quality basketball gear, we aim to inspire even more youth to embrace an active lifestyle, learn valuable life skills through sports, and build a healthier future for themselves.”

With Hoops + Health, Sun Life continues to invest in the next generation—on and off the court.