Sun Life of Canada (Philippines) Inc. has reaffirmed its commitment to helping overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) achieve long-term financial security, bringing together government agencies, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups for a two-leg Overseas Filipinos Health and Financial Wellness Expo in Cebu and Iloilo.
The initiative, organized with the Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute and the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), drew migrant workers, seafarers, their families, and other stakeholders for a day of health services, financial education, and community engagement.
The expos reflected a growing recognition that preparing Filipinos working abroad for life after employment requires more than financial planning. Access to healthcare, government support, and mental wellness services has become an equally important part of ensuring they can eventually return home with financial stability.
Several government agencies participated in the events, including the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund, and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). Participants received on-site assistance and information on benefits, social protection, and government programs available to overseas Filipinos.
Healthcare services were provided by Physicians Diagnostic Services Center Inc., which conducted physical examinations and blood sugar tests while delivering a wellness lecture focused on the health challenges commonly faced by seafarers and migrant workers.
Sun Life also highlighted its “Live Bright Now” campaign, which encourages overseas Filipinos to prioritize both their current well-being and long-term financial security. The campaign promotes proactive financial planning and retirement preparation to help OFWs achieve their goal of eventually “coming home for good.”
To reinforce those messages, participants joined interactive activities designed to simulate real-life financial decisions. The “Home for Good” simulation challenged families to navigate an airplane through obstacles representing the uncertainties faced by overseas workers, while the “Play for Life” board game illustrated the importance of preparing for unexpected risks, building financial resilience, and planning for retirement.
The program also featured discussions led by medical professionals and industry experts. Speakers included Dr. Teodosio Alcantara, Dr. Ryan Ed Comuelo, Dr. Douglas Aurelio, and Blas F. Ople Policy Center senior consultant Luther Calderon, who shared insights on issues affecting migrant workers and seafarers.
Dr. Eris John Tibay and Dr. Melanie De Vera-Padura provided practical advice on maintaining physical and mental health while working at sea. Mental wellness was further highlighted during a session facilitated by Vertical Parallel Asia, with Anne Margarette Estacio, RPm, MSPsy, leading discussions on emotional resilience and coping with the psychological demands of working away from home.
Beyond the educational sessions, participants took part in games and activities at the “OF Play” area, where prizes were awarded through interactive challenges. In Iloilo, AMOSUP also organized a pickleball tournament that promoted physical activity while encouraging camaraderie among participants.
Sun Life and its partner organizations distributed giveaways and merchandise throughout the events, while two participants—one from each venue—won travel vouchers worth ₱5,000 in the major raffle draw.
The expos underscored the value of collaboration among the private sector, government agencies, and civil society organisations in addressing the evolving needs of overseas Filipinos.
By combining financial literacy, healthcare access, and community support under one program, Sun Life said it continues to strengthen its advocacy of helping OFWs build financial security, prepare for retirement, and ultimately realize their dream of coming home for good.
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