Stories of inspiration

43 Years of Transforming Lives: PSFI Stands with Communities in Crisis

For 43 years, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) has been more than a partner in progress. It has been a steady hand in times of crisis. This August, we honor the Natibker spirit of the communities we serve. In Ilocano, Natibker means strong, unyielding, and steadfast in the face of challenges. It is the spirit that fuels resilience and recovery, and the partnerships that make them possible.

In July 2025, Typhoon Emong tore through La Union, leaving over 71,000 families reeling. Floodwaters swallowed homes, power lines collapsed, and more than PHP 1 billion in agriculture and infrastructure was lost. For many, the nights were long, dark, and uncertain.

PSFI, together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation, and local barangay leaders, acted without hesitation. From July 25 to August 1, we reached 202 displaced families in Barangays Poro, San Agustin, Canaoay, and Catbangen, bringing more than just supplies, but hope.

We provided:

  • Supplementary meals for over 1,000 evacuees in three shelters
  • Gallons of safe drinking water in containers
  • Basic hygiene kits to protect health in overcrowded spaces

Our teams braved flooded roads and long queues to secure provisions. In the shelters, we listened to urgent needs such as sleeping mats and high calcium milk for elderly evacuees and blankets for families sleeping on bare floors, and responded the same day.

During that time, Shell Poro Terminal opened its remaining power supply to the community, allowing families to charge their phones, reach loved ones from afar, and stay informed with vital emergency updates.

On July 31,  230 cleaning packs and 230 gallons of mineral water were distributed to evacuation sites and the Shell Poro Terminal. Even Shell staff and security guards impacted by the storm received rice and water to support their recovery.

This is the heart of PSFI’s mission: no community left behind. We work shoulder to shoulder with local leaders and volunteers, turning compassion into action, and action into lasting hope.

As we celebrate 43 years, we carry forward the same commitment that has guided us since day one, to stand with the Filipino people in every challenge, every rebuilding, and every triumph. This is what it means to be Natibker.

Related stories:

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Nurturing Young Minds to Transform Communities

Through Shell’s global program NXplorers, PSFI is planting seeds of change by equipping young Filipinos with tools in problem-solving, systems thinking, and collaboration. From tackling food security in farming towns to creating sustainable energy solutions in schools, NXplorers empowers students and teachers to turn knowledge into lasting community impact—proving that dunong, once shared, continues to grow and transform lives.

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

In 1999, Palawan faced one of its deadliest threats: malaria. What began as the Kilusan Ligtas Malaria (KLM) program soon grew into the Movement Against Malaria (MAM)—a nationwide fight led by communities, health workers, and partners who embodied the spirit of maiseg, or bravery.

Today, with 60 provinces declared malaria-free, we celebrate not only the milestones but also the courage, compassion, and collaboration that continue to save lives.

43 Years of Transforming Lives: The PSFI Poster That Changed Mario’s Life

In 1983, Mario Dimaano was a young student from Batangas struggling to pay for school while working as a jeepney conductor. One day, he spotted a Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) poster about the Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal (SKIL) Scholarship—an opportunity that changed his life.

Through SKIL, Mario studied at TESDA’s Basic Machine Shop program, gaining skills and hope for a brighter future. Despite challenges, he persevered with tibay—a Batangueño word for strength and resilience—and eventually built a stable life abroad for his family.

Today, his story reflects PSFI’s 43-year mission to empower communities, nurture resilience, and create opportunities for generations to come.

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Advancing Health for All

For 43 years, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) has lived its mission of safeguarding life. Rooted in the Chavacano word Vida, we continue to protect health, nurture resilience, and uplift communities nationwide.

Through programs like PBSR, PROTECTS, and PROTECTS UPSCALE, PSFI has expanded HIV services across the country—advancing human rights in Zamboanga, opening the first community HIV center in Palawan, and strengthening local responses in Batangas.

More than a program, PSFI’s HIV response is a lifeline that safeguards life, health, and hope.

Lighting the Way Forward: PSFI, PhilDev, and Shell Empower Future Leaders Through 5-Day Leadership Camp

From August 4 to 8, 2025, Shell, PhilDev, and Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) hosted a five-day leadership camp in Manila for Shell-PhilDev scholars. The program blended mentoring, skills-building, and sessions on AI, diversity, and energy transition, preparing scholars to lead with purpose.

With guidance from Shell leaders and PhilDev mentors, scholars left the camp with knowledge, courage, and a stronger community—ready to shape a more sustainable future for the Philippines.