Stories of inspiration

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Advancing Health for All

For 43 years, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) has been committed to transforming lives. “Vida,” meaning Life in Chavacano, captures our promise to protect, nurture, and uplift communities through holistic and inclusive programs that reach across the country.

From health and education to the environment and livelihoods, PSFI has helped communities grow stronger by safeguarding lives, opening doors to opportunities, and creating pathways toward lasting progress. As we mark this milestone, we honor not only the stories of change but also the collective journey we share with the people we serve.

Our HIV Response: A Lifeline of Hope

This commitment to life and health took root in 2009 with the Philippine Business Sector Response to HIV/AIDS (PBSR), a pioneering initiative that mobilized the private sector to confront the epidemic with compassion and urgency. From its earliest days, PBSR embraced a holistic approach—delivering treatment and preventive commodities while also providing essential services that empower individuals and communities to live healthy, dignified lives.

Because of PBSR’s strong performance, PSFI was entrusted in 2021 by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria to serve as the Principal Recipient of the national HIV/AIDS response. This gave rise to PROTECTS, and after its successful run, PSFI was again awarded PROTECTS UPSCALE—a renewed three-year mandate that expands and strengthens the program’s impact nationwide. Set to continue until 2026, this initiative underscores PSFI’s effectiveness and unwavering commitment.

PSFI’s HIV response is more than a program. It is a lifeline that reaches across regions, communities, and workplaces through inclusive, timely, and holistic interventions.

  • Zamboanga – Advancing human rights through legal literacy initiatives and case management under the CARE Program.

  • Palawan – Supporting outreach and establishing the first community center offering HIV services outside a hospital setting.

  • Batangas – Strengthening local responses through ugnayans, active participation in the Local AIDS Council, policy development, budget allocations, and partnerships with groups like Wagayway to reach key populations.

Beyond core services, PSFI fosters inclusive workplace policies, expands knowledge through HIV 101, and creates new pathways to care in cities, schools, and companies. From service delivery and human rights to community leadership, our work goes beyond health—it safeguards life.

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EJ’s Calling to Serve: A Life Dedicated to Community Empowerment

Driven by a passion for working with communities, EJ San Jose finds purpose in helping families strengthen their livelihoods, improve food security, and recognize new possibilities for their future. Through every home visit, training session, and conversation, he builds the trust that turns opportunities into meaningful and lasting change. As PSFI celebrates its 44th anniversary, EJ’s story reflects how its mission continues to move forward through people who choose to listen, serve, and empower others.

Where Bayanihan Lives: Maezel Cardel and a Community That Chose Hope

As PSFI celebrates its 44th anniversary, Maezel Cardel’s journey reflects the spirit of “Driven by Purpose. Powered by People.” From earning the affectionate nickname “Mae-Shell” to inspiring communities to take ownership of change, her story shows how trust, collaboration, and bayanihan can transform a shared purpose into lasting impact.

Mula sa Maliit na Tindahan Patungo sa Mas Matatag na Kinabukasan: Ang Kwento ni Alma Cajan

Sa pamamagitan ng Roots to Shoots (RTS) Pasacao 2.0 Program, na ipinatutupad ng Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. sa suporta ng Metrobank Foundation, Inc., unti-unting nababago ang buhay ni Alma Cajan. Mula sa masustansyang pagkain para sa kanyang anak hanggang sa pagpapalago ng kanilang sari-sari store, ipinapakita ng kanyang kuwento kung paano ang kaalaman at oportunidad ay maaaring magbukas ng daan tungo sa mas matatag na kinabukasan.