In a world where access to livelihood often shapes one’s path, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) continues to open doors. In partnership with The Manila Golf and Country Club (MGCC) Foundation, Inc., we recently celebrated the graduation of 29 scholars from the Baking, Cookery, and Hilot (Wellness Massage) NCII training program—our latest batch of empowered individuals under Scholars Batch 2024.
Held on May 28, 2025, at the Manila Golf and Country Club, the ceremony marked the culmination of a transformative journey—and the beginning of many more.
Launched to address the growing need for accessible and dignified livelihood opportunities, the program was designed to equip individuals with marketable, in-demand skills in baking, cookery, and traditional Filipino therapeutic massage (hilot). These are more than just technical skills—they’re tools for economic independence, self-confidence, and community service.
Since its inception in 2017, the MGCCFI-PSFI program has helped train and uplift dozens of individuals, including MGCC caddies and residents from nearby communities—many of whom are women, single parents, and youth seeking to build a better future.
“Isa ako sa magpapatunay na hindi nasayang ang ilang araw ko sa pag-aaral ng baking. Dati kasi, isa sa goal ko ang matutunan ang pagbe-bake dahil ang baby ko po ay mahilig sa pandesal. Bukod doon, gusto ko rin po talaga matutunan ang paggawa ng cake.”
Jonalyn Solsona
Bread and Pastry Production Graduate
Before receiving their certificates, scholars completed 4 to 12 weeks of intensive, hands-on training delivered by our partners—PSAA International Academy and Muntinlupa City Technical Institute.
In baking, they learned to master breads, pastries, and other oven-based creations—cultivating both precision and creativity in the kitchen.
Through cookery, they gained essential knowledge in meal preparation, food safety, and presentation—key skills for professional kitchens and home-based food ventures.
Meanwhile, the hilot wellness massage training allowed scholars to reconnect with therapeutic practices deeply rooted in Filipino culture, empowering them to promote healing and wellness in their communities.
This powerful blend of skill-building and service reinforces PSFI’s commitment to inclusive, purpose-driven development.
The graduation event was filled with joy, hope, and pride. Graduates beamed as they received their certificates, cooking and baking tools, and massage kits. Trainers and partners shared heartfelt messages, and some scholars even prepared food for the guests—a fitting tribute to their journey
Now TESDA-certified, many of the graduates are confidently stepping into new opportunities that reflect their training and aspirations. Some are preparing to launch home-based food businesses, offering freshly baked goods and home-cooked meals to their communities. Others are planning to provide freelance massage therapy or catering services, transforming their skills into sustainable sources of income and self-reliance.
This is more than just a graduation—it’s a powerful reminder that opportunity changes everything. These scholars are living proof that, with the right support and tools, ordinary individuals can build extraordinary futures.
