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:

Chasing Zero: How PSFI and Partners are Turning the Tide Against Malaria

As the Philippines moves closer to eliminating malaria, a focused push in Palawan is driving the country’s final mile toward zero cases. Through the Global Fund Movement Against Malaria program, implemented by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) with national and local partners, significant gains have been achieved, including a 78% drop in indigenous cases in 2025 and zero reported deaths.

With 74 out of 82 provinces now malaria free, efforts are concentrated on reaching remote and underserved communities through targeted testing, treatment, and prevention strategies. Backed by strong partnerships and community driven approaches, the country is on track to achieve zero malaria in Palawan by 2026 and nationwide elimination by 2030.

BiyaHERO: PSFI Strengthens Road Safety Awareness Among Young Learners in Cagayan de Oro

PSFI, together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation and the Roads and Traffic Administration, strengthened road safety awareness among young learners in Cagayan de Oro through its BiyaHERO program. Through hands-on simulations and real-world learning tools, 64 students and teachers gained practical skills to navigate roads safely, reinforcing the importance of early education in building safer communities.

Strengthening Foundations Through Partnership: PSFI at the STEM Kapihan Panel

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) joined industry and education leaders at the STEM Kapihan Panel to address urgent challenges in the Philippine education system. Highlighting the need to strengthen foundational learning, Executive Director Sebastian C. Quiniones Jr. emphasized the role of industry as a co-educator in shaping more relevant and effective learning experiences. Read the full story to learn how partnerships can help strengthen both learners and teachers.

Growing Dignity: How PWDs in Tagbilaran Cultivated Livelihood Through Urban Gardening

In Tagbilaran City, persons with disabilities are transforming small urban spaces into sources of food, income, and empowerment. Through container gardening and vermicast production, the Association of Persons with Disability Workers is building sustainable livelihoods rooted in self-reliance, skills development, and dignity, proving that with the right support, communities can grow stronger from within.