Stories of inspiration

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Honoring Bravery in the Fight Against Malaria

In the heart of Palawan in 1999, a spark of bravery lit the way for what would become one of the country’s most enduring health movements. On June 14 of that year, through Executive Order No. 10 by then Governor Salvador P. Socrates, the Kilusan Ligtas Malaria (KLM) program was born. What began as a partnership between Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and the Provincial Government of Palawan would soon transform into a nationwide call to action.

Back then, malaria was not just a disease—it was a looming threat that cost countless lives, one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the province. Yet, against this formidable enemy, communities stood maiseg—Cuyonon for brave.

Bravery, in this story, has never been about grand gestures. It is found in the quiet persistence of barangay health workers trekking through muddy roads, in volunteers who spend nights under mosquito nets teaching families about prevention, in doctors and local leaders who refused to give up the fight. Bravery is in every health provider, every family, and every partner who chose to show up.

Through the years, what was once Kilusan Ligtas Malarya grew into the Movement Against Malaria (MAM)—a nationwide initiative supported by the Global Fund, local governments, and the relentless commitment of thousands of unsung heroes. From organizing congresses that brought stakeholders together, to World Malaria Day celebrations that raised awareness, the movement has steadily built momentum.

And the results speak for themselves. By 2020, 60 provinces were declared malaria-free. Behind this milestone are over 10,000 trained health providers—each one a thread in the fabric of resilience and courage.

Today, as we mark this anniversary, we remember not just the milestones but the language of care, courage, and community that defines this movement. Maiseg is not only about braving mosquitoes or long journeys into far-flung barangays. It is about the collective spirit that chose hope over fear, persistence over surrender.

As PSFI celebrates this legacy, may we continue to honor the bravery that began in Palawan and grew into a nationwide movement—proof that with courage, collaboration, and compassion, even the deadliest diseases can be defeated.

Related stories:

Roots to Shoots SACOBIA: Growing Food, Growing Futures in Bamban

With support from Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) is helping communities in Bamban, Tarlac grow more than vegetables through the Roots to Shoots SACOBIA Program by cultivating food security, healthier lifestyles, and hands-on learning through school gardens.

PSFI and SPC Support Brigada Eskwela Through Bayanihan Bulilit in Pasacao

Through the Bayanihan Bulilit initiative, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC), and volunteers from the Shell Pasacao Terminal joined community partners to prepare Child Development Centers in Pasacao, Camarines Sur for the new school year. The collective effort provided learning materials, improved classroom facilities, and created better learning environments for 243 young learners.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: When Representation Opens Doors and Saves Lives

This Pride Month, PSFI celebrates Basha Cancillar, a community leader whose journey from a young volunteer to an HIV advocate is helping create safer, more inclusive spaces for people affected by and living with HIV. Through PROTECTS UPSCALE and partnerships with community organizations, Basha champions representation, dignity, and access to healthcare, proving that when people are seen, heard, and empowered, lives can be transformed.

More Than a Reunion: Celebrating Four Decades of the SKIL Legacy

More than four decades after receiving the opportunity to build their futures through the SKIL Program, alumni from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came together to celebrate a legacy of transformation, achievement, and service. Their stories stand as a testament to the enduring power of education, skills development, and the belief that true success is measured not only by what we achieve, but by how we help others succeed.

Project PASA Strengthens Sustainability and Community Impact Through MOA Signing

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Business Operations Manila, and Shell Pilipinas Corporation formalized their partnership for Project PASA (Passing Along Sustainably used Assets), an initiative that gives used furniture, mobile devices, and equipment a second life. Through the partnership, pre-loved assets are redirected to underserved communities, advancing sustainability, circularity, and social impact by ensuring valuable resources continue creating opportunities where they are needed most.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: How Joan dela Cerna is Building a Future Rooted in Care

After years of working abroad to provide for her family, Joan dela Cerna returned home with a renewed determination to build a future closer to her children. Through the Medical Scholarship Program (MSP) supported by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), she is pursuing her dream of becoming a caregiver while balancing her roles as a mother, student, and breadwinner. Her story is a reminder that when people are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute, they can create meaningful change for themselves, their families, and their communities.