Stories of inspiration

Pathways to Progress: SKIL Scholars Seize Career Opportunities in CDO

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) recently spotlighted its SKIL (Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal) scholars in Cagayan de Oro City through a week of workforce readiness activities—culminating in a job fair that opened doors to real employment opportunities.

In partnership with the Cagayan de Oro Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the initiative began with preparatory sessions on resume writing, job application strategies, and interview techniques. These were designed to equip scholars with the tools and confidence to transition smoothly from training to the workplace.

The highlight of the initiative was the scholars’ participation in the Kalayaan Job Fair, held at Robinsons Cagayan de Oro in celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day. The fair was made possible through the collaborative efforts of PESO, the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO), TESDA, DOLE, and PSFI, among others. It featured 2,885 job vacancies from 39 companies—28 local and 11 overseas—and attracted 648 registered applicants.

Job fair statistics at a glance:

  • 454 applicants for local positions (181 male, 296 female)

  • 194 applicants for overseas roles (121 male, 73 female)

Promising outcomes:

  • 38 applicants deemed qualified

  • 153 advanced to final interviews

  • 88 scheduled for examinations

  • 70 hired on the spot (HOTS)

City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario P. Raagas, representing the local chief executive, graced the event and reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to youth empowerment and employment. His presence emphasized strong support for programs that bridge education and industry, particularly for young people from underserved communities.

This initiative reflects PSFI’s mission beyond skills training—ensuring that scholars are job-ready and connected to actual employment opportunities. By linking education to livelihoods, PSFI continues to pave pathways to progress for the next generation.

 

Photos courtesy of PESO Cagayan de Oro

Related stories:

PSFI Gathers Scholars for Transformative LEAD Workshop

PSFI, in partnership with Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, gathered 79 scholars for the LEAD Workshop—an interactive training that built leadership, collaboration, and purpose among future professionals in nursing, allied health, and STEM. The workshop featured dynamic sessions, cross-disciplinary learning, and inspiring messages from academic partners, all reinforcing PSFI’s commitment to empowering youth through education and servant leadership.

Hope Flows in Sitio Burog: Avegail’s Story

For years, Avegail Salta’s family endured hours of waiting and long walks just to fetch water from a single deep well. Now, hope flows freely in Sitio Burog as clean water brings healthier days and a renewed sense of empowerment to the community.

Clean Beginnings: Deep Well Inauguration Brings Hope and Health to Sitio Burog

A deep well water system has brought clean, safe water to 127 Ayta Mag-antsi households in Sitio Burog, Tarlac, marking a major milestone for the Roots to Shoots (RTS) program. This collaborative project strengthens health, hygiene, and nutrition in the community and signals the beginning of expanded WASH efforts in the region.

John Carlo’s First Mission: A Scholar’s Way of Giving Back

As a first-time volunteer, STEP scholar John Carlo Alvarez found purpose in giving back to his hometown through the REACH medical and dental mission. What began as a day of service became a heartfelt journey of gratitude, community, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

Third Time’s a Charm: Beverly’s Commitment to Keep Learning

At 44, solo parent Beverly Besa has taken the MGCCFI-PSFI Tech-Voc Scholarship three times—learning cookery, baking, and hilot. From selling food during the pandemic to graduating as Most Outstanding Scholar, Beverly proves that learning never stops when driven by love for family.