John Carlo Alvarez, a fourth-year Instrumentation and Control Technology student and a proud scholar under the Science and Technology Education Program (STEP), recently found a meaningful way to give back by volunteering at the REACH medical mission held on May 31 in Barangay Libjo, Batangas.
The mission provided free medical and dental consultations, fasting blood sugar (FBS) testing, and essential medicines to 278 residents. Now in its third year, the REACH initiative continues to bring accessible healthcare to communities through collaboration among volunteers, local government units, healthcare workers, and partner organizations.
For John Carlo, volunteering was more than just lending a hand. It was a heartfelt return to the community that shaped him.
Having grown up in Libjo, he understands how vital access to healthcare is for families like his. As a STEP scholar supported by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), he receives a monthly allowance and regular mentoring to help him grow both academically and personally. Taking part in the medical mission became his way of giving thanks for the support he continues to receive and honoring the people who have guided his journey.
REACH, short for Reliable Access to Community Healthcare, is a PSFI initiative supported by Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC). It brings essential medical services closer to communities in Batangas City, particularly those within the Shell Import Facility Tabangao (SHIFT) host and fenceline areas, through the power of volunteerism and partnerships.
As a first-time volunteer, John Carlo assisted in setting up the venue, carrying tables, chairs, and medical kits, and distributing meal packs to fellow volunteers.
“Taga-rito rin po ako kaya gusto kong makatulong sa aking hometown,” he shared.
Despite the early morning call time and the physically demanding tasks, John Carlo felt nothing but fulfillment. He saw how his small efforts contributed to something greater, bringing care and hope to those around him. The experience sparked a deeper desire to continue serving.
“Definitely, I’ll volunteer again,” he said with a smile.
For John Carlo, this is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of service. He realized that when you give from the heart, you don’t just make a difference—you also grow in ways you never imagined.
