Pru Life UK is advancing its dedication to sustainability by forging strategic partnerships aimed at addressing the adverse effects of climate change and enhancing community resilience amid escalating climate-related challenges.
As part of this commitment, Pru Life UK, in collaboration with CARE Philippines, is spearheading the Sustainable Health Interventions for Eradicating Leptospirosis and Dengue (SHIELD) Project in target communities in Malabon and Valenzuela City. The initiative is backed by a Php 10 million grant from the Climate and Health Resilience Fund (CHRF), established by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc across Asia and Africa.
Launch of the SHIELD Project
Introduced in March 2024, the CHRF is a USD 2 million initiative designed to support local programs that mitigate climate-related health risks while fostering resilience in vulnerable communities across Asia and Africa.
The SHIELD Project kicked off consultations with a site visit to Malabon, bringing together local health department officials and project team members. The collaboration will focus on:
- Raising awareness about preventive measures, such as the Department of Health’s 5S strategy (Search & Destroy, Self-Protection, Seek Early Consultation, Support Fogging, and Sustain Hydration);
- Training local health workers and community leaders to effectively manage and respond to disease outbreaks;
- Improving urban planning and infrastructure, such as drainage systems and eliminating mosquito breeding sites; and
- Distributing protective equipment, including insecticide-treated mosquito nets, alongside implementing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives.
A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Resilience
Beyond public health efforts, Pru Life UK is driving broader initiatives to promote environmental sustainability and encourage cross-sector collaboration.
“As we confront the growing challenges of climate change in the Philippines, it is critical to empower our communities. Through the Climate and Health Resilience Fund, Pru Life UK is addressing significant health risks while ensuring our interventions support all individuals, especially women and girls. SHIELD is a step toward a sustainable and equitable future,” said Reiza Dejito, Country Director of CARE Philippines.
Industry Collaboration and Advocacy
Pru Life UK also partnered with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) to host the “Finance in the Climate-Health Nexus: Adapting to Heat” dialogue. This event, organized with ECCP’s Special Committee on Open Finance and Financial Inclusion (SCOFFI), convened experts and industry leaders to explore strategies for protecting public health amidst climate change.
Discussions highlighted:
- The need for increased investments in addressing the climate-health nexus,
- Challenges in cross-sector collaboration among healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and financial sectors, and
- Opportunities for innovation and co-investment to mitigate public health risks.
“As part of our long-term sustainability efforts, we aim to help communities build resilience to climate change while promoting financial security as a critical adaptation measure,” shared Atty. Paul Mandal, Pru Life UK’s Senior Vice President and Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer.
A Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Through partnerships like the SHIELD Project and industry dialogues, Pru Life UK reaffirms its mission to create a lasting impact for Filipinos by fostering healthier, more sustainable communities.
For more information about Pru Life UK’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.
