Pru Life UK supports international and local disaster recovery initiatives

Taguig City, 9 November 2024 – Pru Life UK recently took part in recovery efforts for communities affected by typhoons and flooding in the Philippines and Thailand.

In the Philippines, Pru Life UK extended support to children and their families recently affected by Typhoon Kristine by contributing Php 300,000 to Save the Children Philippines’ emergency response initiatives. The company also organised its in-kind donation drive for affected families in the Bicol Region, distributing essentials through the Project Banyuhay relief operations of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3820.

Pru Life UK also joined Prudence Foundation’s PRUVolunteers (PRUVols) Programme, bringing together employees from Prudential in Asia, Africa, and the United Kingdom to rebuild homes and restore infrastructure for communities affected by severe flooding in Sukhothai Province, Thailand.

Prudence Foundation, established in 2011 as the community investment arm in Asia and Africa of Prudential plc, is committed to create better futures through initiatives that achieve sustainable, real-world impact and long-term resilience in the communities we operate in.

Through programmes like PRUVols, Prudence Foundation mobilises resources to provide meaningful support to communities while fostering collaboration across its regional network. This year’s programme was in partnership with Prudential Thailand and the Foundation of Older Persons Development (FOPDEV).

Pru Life UK employees including Kenneth Leyco, Rodel Caricativo, and Jerome Martillano, worked with regional volunteers to construct new homes, prepare drainage systems, and rebuild sanitation facilities.

Volunteers also participated in cultural exchange activities with the local community, including basket-weaving and traditional cooking workshops at Yang Sai Elementary School.

The week-long initiative concluded with the turnover of houses, where beneficiaries received the keys to their newly rebuilt homes. Watch this to see more.

Kenneth Leyco, a Senior Training Specialist, described the experience as “life-changing, happy, and fulfilling.” He shared, “I learned so much, from carpentry techniques to cultural insights. It was humbling to work alongside people from diverse backgrounds, united by a common purpose. Seeing the beneficiaries’ joyful faces made every effort worthwhile.”

This sentiment was echoed by Senior Accounting Specialist Rodel Caricativo, saying, “Participating in this programme was a meaningful way to give back and connect with communities in need. It reinforced my belief that even small contributions can make a big difference.”

This year’s PRUVolunteers Programme in Thailand reflects the Prudence Foundation’s mission of strengthening communities by ensuring our support is both impactful and sustainable. It is a testament to its commitment in building community resilience and supporting vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, who are often disproportionately affected by such natural disasters and climate change.

For Pru Life UK, these efforts underscore its commitment to being a trusted partner in navigating life’s challenges and creating a better future for all.

“Community investment strengthens Pru Life UK’s commitment to sustainability,” shared Atty. Paul Mandal, SVP and Chief Legal, Government Relations and Sustainability Officer of Pru Life UK. “Through these initiatives, we not only extend our resources to support disaster recovery efforts but also demonstrate our long-term commitment to building stronger and more resilient communities.”

For more information about Pru Life UK’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.