Stories of inspiration

Brewing Success: Gina Diaz and the KALIPI Poro Women

Gina Diaz helped establish the Brgy. Poro chapter of the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (KALIPI) in San Fernando, La Union. Initially hesitant due to her existing role as president of the Barangay Health Workers Association, she eventually embraced the challenge and took the helm as KALIPI’s president. Presently, she guides their 26-member organization with dedication and commitment.
 
Eager to enact change in their community, KALIPI members worked diligently to launch their hand-crafted drip coffee enterprise. They were inspired by the delicious coffee they tasted in Baguio and decided to bring this experience to their community, using locally sourced beans for this first product.
 
In July 2023, Gina reached out to PSFI for insights into enterprise development. This partnership allowed KALIPI to engage in comprehensive training sessions covering coffee processing, financial literacy, and business planning through the Shell LiveWIRE program. PSFI also extended crucial support by providing capital, equipment, and materials to jumpstart their venture. Most importantly, the experience brought KALIPI members to become even more united in their commitment, investing both time and effort to further uplift their community.
 
Beyond the prospect of supplemental income, this endeavor offers them an invaluable opportunity to acquire new skills. While initially nervous, Gina now finds joy in crafting quality products and seeing others enjoy them. In February, they successfully launched 128 coffee drip units, securing their first loyal customer.
Gina is optimistic about KALIPI’s future. They are gaining momentum, seeing encouraging outcomes, and attracting customers who believe in their mission. She looks forward to refining their processes, such as enhancing facilities and optimizing task allocation. As KALIPI enters this new chapter, Gina looks forward to PSFI’s ongoing support as they expand.
 
Gina encourages fellow women to take inspiration from her journey and seize opportunities. 
 
“Kung mabibigyan ng ganitong pagkakataon, tulad sa amin sa Shell LiveWIRE, tapusin natin ang naumpisahan. Makakatulong ito sa atin, sa komunidad, at sa mga kababaihan.”
 

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.