In celebration of its 130th anniversary in the Philippines, Sun Life Philippines hosted a solar lamp-making workshop Wednesday in partnership with Liter of Light and Odangputik Art Space.
Held at the Burnt Bean in Bonifacio High Street Central, Taguig, the workshop aimed to promote sustainability, community engagement and Filipino cultural heritage.
The event, titled Circle of Light, brought together volunteers, artists, and advocates for hands-on experience in assembling solar-powered lamps using open-source, repairable parts — an effort to provide energy solutions to off-grid communities across the country.
“At Sun Life, our mission has always been to help Filipinos achieve a brighter future — not just financially, but in every sense of the word,” said Don Aaron Peji, head of brand strategy and management at Sun Life Philippines. “The Circle of Light workshop is a manifestation of that commitment.”
Peji emphasized that each solar lamp built is symbolic of Sun Life’s broader mission. “It’s a beacon of hope, a symbol of collaboration, and proof that when we come together, we can do something truly powerful.”
Peji. (SHARED PHOTO)
He added that the initiative reflects the company’s ongoing investment in sustainable development. “We’re proud to work alongside Liter of Light and Odangputik Art Space — two groups that embody innovation and cultural pride. Together, we’re not just celebrating the past 130 years, we’re building a better future.”
Sun Life also noted its broader sustainability goals, including its flagship Sun Life Centre in Bonifacio Global City, which is certified as a green building.
The solar lamp-making session was led by Illac Diaz, founder of Liter of Light, a globally recognized nonprofit that provides low-cost solar lighting to communities without electricity. Diaz praised the partnership with Sun Life, calling it “one of the largest climate acts in the world — measurable, sustainable and scalable.”
“People ask, what happens after the big event? Does anything really change?” Diaz said. “With Liter of Light, the answer is yes.”
Participants spent 30 minutes assembling hand-built solar lamps designed to last up to five years with minimal charging. The lights rely on common parts such as motorcycle LED bulbs and radio components — intentionally simple so they can be repaired by anyone, anywhere.
Participants assemble their solar lamps built to last up to five years with minimal recharging. (SHARED PHOTO)
“There’s no patented tech here,” Diaz said. “What you build today should be fixable with just a screwdriver. That’s how we solve energy poverty sustainably.”
Diaz also highlighted the integration of pottery into the project — not just for aesthetics but to support local artisans and promote green jobs.
“This isn’t just about light,” he said. “It’s about skills. It’s about reviving crafts. One day, people will say, ‘Someone taught us how to make solar lights by hand — and it changed our lives forever.’”
Representatives from Odangputik Art Space used the occasion to raise awareness about the struggles faced by traditional potters in the Philippines.
“During the pre-colonial period, ceramics were used for survival,” said an Odangputik representative. “Later, they took on ceremonial and artistic significance. But today, we’re losing that connection.”
The representative noted several barriers to reviving the industry: limited access to raw materials, a lack of training centers, and minimal livelihood support for artisans.
“There’s little cultural appreciation for pottery in our fast-paced world,” the spokesperson said. “Many young people would rather work in offices. There’s also unhealthy competition within communities, and no guarantee of income.”
To address these challenges, the group called for cross-sector collaboration involving artists, scientists, economists, and private companies like Sun Life.
“This workshop makes our efforts visible,” they said. “It’s about unity — people from different fields coming together to create something that matters.”
Lennie Arboleda, head of public relations and corporate communications at Sun Life, said that they’re not just lighting up communities but also putting a spotlight on Filipino heritage, sustainability, and livelihoods.
The Circle of Light workshop exemplifies how business, culture and grassroots innovation can converge to deliver meaningful change. More than a company event, the initiative shows what communities can achieve when they unite — brighter, together.
