Stories of inspiration

Empowering Dreams, Transforming Lives: PSFI Celebrates SKIL Graduates in Cagayan de Oro

On June 23, 2025, the Ayala Centrio Mall Activity Center in Cagayan de Oro City was filled with pride, joy, and hope as 410 graduates from the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCdO) marked a significant milestone in their lives. Among them were 25 scholars supported by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) through its Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal (SKIL) program. Each scholar stood as a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity.

This life-changing program is made possible with the support of Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC) and its North Mindanao Import Facility (NMIF). Their commitment to investing in education and workforce development continues to open doors for young Filipinos, particularly in host communities, helping them build brighter and more sustainable futures.

PSFI’s Executive Director, Sebastian C. Quiniones, delivered a heartfelt congratulatory message during the 12th Graduation Ceremony. His words underscored PSFI’s strong commitment to uplifting lives through education and skills development, especially for those who need it most.

One of the most moving moments of the event was the Story of Hope of Carl Ivan Tanso, a SKIL scholar whose journey was shared through an emotional audio-visual presentation. Carl grew up in a household burdened by severe financial hardship, where meals were often limited to just one a day. Despite these challenges, Carl never gave up. With the support of PSFI and CCCdO, he completed his technical-vocational training and earned his NC II certification. Carl expressed deep gratitude to everyone who believed in him, sharing his hope that this achievement will become a turning point toward a brighter future for his family.

Another proud moment came when Morphy M. Adajar, one of PSFI’s SKIL scholars, was honored with the Outstanding Trainee Award. Morphy received a medal in recognition of his exceptional academic performance and practical demonstrations—an inspiring example of excellence and dedication.

PSFI also received plaques of appreciation for its invaluable support and commitment throughout the scholars’ training journey. These recognitions reaffirm PSFI’s mission to empower Filipino youth through meaningful partnerships and impactful programs.

The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario P. Raagas, representing City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy; Councilor Suzette Magtajas-Daba, Chairperson of the Committee on Education; Mr. Rafael Y. Abrogar, Regional Director of TESDA Region X; and keynote speaker Mr. Austilio Igot, Chief of Staff of the Regional Operations Division, TESDA Region X.

As we celebrate these achievements, PSFI remains steadfast in its belief that every Filipino deserves the chance to build a better life. Through SKIL and other initiatives, PSFI continues to invest in the potential of the Filipino youth.

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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.