In the coastal community of Bagong Silang, Puerto Princesa, 58-year-old Candelaria “Candy” Germata proves that innovation can bloom even from discarded plastic bottles.
A mother, a church volunteer, and the secretary of their purok, Candy wears many hats. Yet, her heart has always been drawn to art. “Mahilig talaga ako sa drawing at paggawa ng arts and crafts,” she shared, recalling how she used to accept small art commissions when she was younger to help with daily expenses.
What began as a creative outlet slowly turned into a business with a deeper purpose. Living by the sea, Candy often noticed colorful plastic bottles washed ashore or floating in the water. Instead of turning away, she saw potential in what others considered trash.
“Naisip ko, baka puwede kong gawing opportunity ang problema sa basura, para makatulong sa kalikasan at kumita rin sa sariling paraan.”
That spark of curiosity led to the birth of Candy’s Eco-Friendly Recycled Plastic Bottles, an upcycling business turning marine litter into flower pots, home décor, and creative art pieces. Her first collection, hand-painted flower pots, caught attention online in 2024. Orders started pouring in, especially from teachers looking to brighten their classrooms. Through word of mouth and social media, Candy earned nearly ₱12,000 from her creations last year, proof that art made with heart can also sustain a livelihood.
Finding Hope in Shell LiveWIRE
Candy’s turning point came when she was nominated by her community to join Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc.’s (PSFI) Shell LiveWIRE program, implemented in partnership with Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC). The program aims to strengthen local enterprises through mentorship, training, and startup support.
“Masaya pero masakit sa ulo,” she laughed, describing the training that challenged her to think beyond creativity toward business strategy, marketing, and sustainability. With guidance from PSFI’s Program Officer Cheilo Padilla and SPC’s Palawan Terminal Manager Engr. Mark Chester Rey, Candy learned how to price, promote, and scale her products responsibly.
“Hindi kami sinukuan ng PSFI at Shell kaya bakit pa kami susuko? Binigay sa amin itong opportunity na ito kaya hindi talaga kami tatamarin dapat.”
Through Shell LiveWIRE, Candy received tools, paints, and other materials that helped her improve production and quality. But more than equipment, she gained the confidence to dream bigger.
Art, Advocacy, and Ambition
Today, Candy envisions building her own workshop and mini-gallery, where people can see her creations up close, a place that will not only showcase her designs but also inspire others to find beauty in sustainability.
From gathering plastics by the shore to running a small but growing business, Candy’s story reflects what PSFI strives for: empowering communities to create change from the ground up.
“Magkaroon ng tiyaga at tiwala sa sarili,” she advises fellow entrepreneurs. “Kailangan mong maniwala sa kung ano ang kaya mong i-alok at maniwala rin na kakayanin mong tuparin ito.”
What started as an artist’s simple dream has blossomed into a purpose-driven enterprise, proving that with creativity, determination, and the right support, even sea waste can spark waves of hope.
