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:

Neighbors for Nature: PSFI and SPC Join Puerto Princesa to Restore Balance at the 40th International Coastal Cleanup

Hundreds of volunteers gathered at the Puerto Princesa Baywalk for the 40th International Coastal Cleanup, joining hands to protect the sea that sustains their community. Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC) and local partners, helped remove litter and restore the bay’s natural balance through collective action and symbolic “MudBall” drops. The cleanup highlighted how unity, care, and shared responsibility can turn small acts into waves of change for a cleaner, more resilient Puerto Princesa.

Standing as a Good Neighbor: PSFI and Shell Pilipinas Corporation Bring Relief to Families in Pasacao

When Severe Tropical Storm Opong struck Bicol, families in Pasacao, Camarines Sur sought refuge from uncertainty. Standing true to its mission of being a good neighbor, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) joined hands with local partners to deliver essential relief packs and comfort to affected families. Guided by compassion and the spirit of bayanihan, PSFI showed that hope thrives when communities come together in kindness and solidarity.

A Decade of Service: Edong’s Journey with PSFI in Palawan

For nearly a decade, Edong served as a dedicated Program Officer with PSFI in Palawan, working hand in hand with communities through programs that uplift livelihoods and protect the environment. From supporting indigenous peoples to planting mangroves along the coasts of Puerto Princesa and El Nido, his journey reflects resilience, humility, and hope. As he steps away to focus on healing and new dreams, Edong leaves behind a living legacy etched in the people and places he helped transform.

BiyaHERO Program: Road Safety for Community Empowers Batangas Volunteers

The BiyaHERO Program: Road Safety for Community is empowering Batangas volunteers to become champions of safer roads. Through training sessions led by the Batangas City TDRO and supported by PSFI, parents, educators, and local leaders gained knowledge on traffic laws, road safety practices, and community-based solutions. With new mentors ready to cascade learnings across TALIM barangays, BiyaHERO strengthens the call that road safety is a shared responsibility and a collective journey toward protecting lives.

Planting for the Future: 3rd Mangrove Planting Held in Barangay Bagong Silang

The coastline of Barangay Bagong Silang in Palawan came alive as Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), together with partners and nearly 200 participants, planted 200 Pagatpat mangroves in its 3rd Mangrove Planting Activity. With the theme “Bakawan ay ating Palaguin, Kaagapay ito ng Buhay Natin,” the event highlighted the vital role of mangroves in protecting marine life, sustaining fisherfolk livelihoods, and strengthening communities against climate change.