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.

Related stories:

From Home Kitchen to City Hall: Maricris Senados’ Journey of Grit and Growth

From a home kitchen to a food stall at Tagbilaran City Hall, Maricris Senados’ journey reflects quiet determination and shared progress. Once a full-time housewife running a small sari-sari store and selling homemade snacks online, Maricris took a chance when an opportunity arose. Through PSFI’s Shell LiveWIRE program, with the support of Shell Pilipinas Corporation, she received assistance that allowed her to save on costs, reinvest in her business, and steadily grow her livelihood. At the same time, her son earned a technical scholarship under SKIL, enabling them to train and graduate together. Today, as her food stall often sells out by early afternoon, Maricris continues to build toward her dream of a permanent cooking space—showing how timely support, partnership, and perseverance can turn small beginnings into sustainable livelihoods.

PSFI and Shell Pilipinas Corporation Celebrate 2025 Tagbilaran Culmination Day, Honoring Community Enterprises and Local Partnerships

PSFI and Shell Pilipinas Corporation celebrated the 2025 Tagbilaran Culmination Day, marking key milestones of the Tagbilaran Social Development Program and the impact of strong local partnerships.

The event highlighted the completion of the 2025 Shell LiveWIRE Program by three community enterprises and recognized broader community initiatives, including school support, coastal cleanups, and disaster relief efforts. The gathering underscored a shared commitment to sustaining community progress in Tagbilaran.

In Memory of Cesar A. Buenaventura

Cesar A. Buenaventura shaped not only institutions, but the character and purpose of the people who worked with him. As the founding chairman of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc., he was a principled leader who combined firmness with empathy, demanded excellence, and remained unwavering in doing what was right. In this personal reflection, PSFI Executive Director Sebastian C. Quiniones Jr. shares memories of CAB’s quiet but lasting influence, and the values that continue to guide the Foundation’s service to others.

BCFI and PSFI Celebrate 99 Caregiver Graduates, Opening Pathways to Employment and Transformation

BCFI and PSFI recently celebrated the graduation of 99 caregiver scholars under the MetamorphoCare 2025 program, held at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel in Quezon City. The ceremony highlighted powerful stories of second chances, from working mothers and sidewalk vendors to determined breadwinners who turned challenges into opportunities through education and skills training.

Through the Technical Vocational Caregiving Scholarship Program, part of a five–year partnership between BCFI and PSFI, scholars are equipped with NC II certification, career readiness, and direct access to employment opportunities through career talks and a linkages fair with hiring partners. Beyond certificates, the graduates carry renewed dignity, hope, and purpose as they step into their roles as caregivers, ready to uplift their families and serve communities with compassion.

Anchored by Love: The Story of Bong Fernan Tumanda

For years, former seafarer Bong Fernan Tumanda crossed oceans to provide for his family, spending more time at sea than at home. When the pandemic hit and his wife was pregnant, he chose to come home for good and start over through PSFI’s SKIL program in Electrical Installation and Maintenance. Today, Bong works close to his family, helps grow their small business, and treasures simple moments with his children, proving that with courage, faith, and the right support, a father’s love can chart a new course home.