Pru Life UK’s educational comic book, “Maging Handa: A Story of Adaptation and Resilience Amid Climate Change,” explores the impact of climate change on the Philippines, a country highly vulnerable to extreme weather events. The comic book follows a classroom discussion on climate change, where a disaster response volunteer shares the impact of Super Typhoon Yolanda on her life and hometown. Climate change has been linked to increased rainfall and the intensity of recent typhoons, causing mental health issues like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The book aims to help young people stay prepared and adapt to climate change.
Through relatable stories and practical advice, “Maging Handa” highlights the importance of financial security, community support, and mental resilience in climate adaptation.n
To bring these lessons to life, Pru Life UK hosted a Climate Change and Mental Health learning session at Manila Central University (MCU), engaging Grade 5-7 students in an interactive discussion. “We are honored to be part of this initiative, which teaches our students how to stay prepared and resilient amid climate change,” said MCU Basic Education Principal Ms. Maria Eloisa C. Reyes.
Planetary health expert Dr. Ramon Lorenzo “Renzo”’ R. Guinto, Pru Life UK’s climate and health advocacy partner since 2020, emphasized the importance of early intervention. “Children are among the most vulnerable to climate-related illnesses and the toll on their mental well-being cannot be overlooked. Beyond the science of climate change, we’re empowering students to safeguard their health, build mental resilience, and understand the role of financial preparedness in navigating an uncertain future.”
Pru Life UK plans to distribute the comics in schools and communities nationwide and host more learning sessions to educate and empower Filipino youth and adults.
“The ‘Maging Handa’ comic book is the latest in our continuing efforts to help Filipinos understand the impacts of climate change on healthy well-being and financial security. Insurance and other forms of financial protection can help reduce financial vulnerability amid the worsening climate crisis. This is part of our larger commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, with more initiatives readied as we continue working toward a more secure and sustainable future,” shares Maricel E. Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Vice President for Government Relations & Sustainability.
As part of its long-term sustainability agenda, Pru Life UK has consistently led efforts to address the impacts of climate change on Filipinos. In 2021, the company conducted the pioneering study “How Climate Change Will Impact Filipino Health in the Next Decade”. Led by Dr. Guinto, it highlights actionable measures to mitigate climate change’s impact on Filipinos’ health while advocating for financial security and mental health interventions as vital adaptations to a changing environment.
Since then, the company has been engaging in a series of climate and health sessions through collaborations with various government units, non-profit organizations, and local communities.
Recently, Pru Life UK, through Prudential’s Climate and Health Resilience Fund (CHRF), awarded a Php 10 million grant to CARE Philippines for the rollout of the Sustainable Health Interventions for Eradicating Leptospirosis and Dengue (SHIELD) Project in target communities in Malabon and Valenzuela City.
To download a copy of “Maging Handa”, click here.
