Stories of inspiration

Opening Doors to Opportunity: MGCCFI and PSFI Scholars Earn TESDA Customer Service Certification

A certification is more than a credential. For many young people, it is a gateway to confidence, opportunity, and a brighter future.

Through the Technical Vocational Scholarship Program of the Manila Golf and Country Club Foundation, Inc. (MGCCFI), implemented in partnership with Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), twenty-six scholars have successfully earned their TESDA Customer Services NC II certification, marking an important milestone in their journey toward meaningful employment and career growth.

The scholars completed the Basic Entrepreneurship with Customer Service NC II Program, which was delivered fully online from November 2025 to March 2026. While the Basic Entrepreneurship component focused on developing entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, the Customer Service NC II track equipped participants with competencies aligned with national industry standards and the evolving needs of the retail and service sectors.

Recognizing the challenges of online learning, MGCCFI provided scholars with tablets and monthly internet allowances to ensure uninterrupted access to training. The program was implemented in partnership with PSAA International Academy in Pandacan, Manila, reinforcing MCCFI’s commitment to making quality skills development more accessible and inclusive.

Following the completion of the training program, scholars underwent the TESDA Customer Services NC II assessment on May 20, 21, and 27, 2026. The assessment measured their proficiency in delivering customer service according to TESDA’s competency standards.

All twenty-six scholars successfully passed the assessment and were declared TESDA-certified competent, demonstrating their readiness to enter the workforce and pursue opportunities in customer-facing industries.

For scholar Jumary Atrezuela, the achievement was the culmination of months of hard work, perseverance, and faith.

“When I arrived at the assessment center, I felt extremely nervous. At first, the TESDA assessor seemed quite strict, which made me even more anxious. However, as the assessment went on and the assessor explained the process, I began to gain confidence. I told myself, ‘I can do this. I can pass.’ I also prayed for guidance and strength.”

The waiting period after the assessment proved to be one of the most memorable moments of her journey.

“After completing the assessment, we waited anxiously for the results. When the assessor announced that we had all passed, I felt overwhelming joy and relief. It was an unforgettable moment. Finally, all our hard work had paid off. We were now competent and certified.”

Beyond the certificates they received, the scholars gained valuable skills, confidence, and a stronger foundation for their future careers.

This milestone reflects MGCCFI’s continued commitment to empowering young people through industry-relevant training, skills development, and opportunities that help open doors to sustainable livelihoods and long-term success.

MGCCFI extends its heartfelt congratulations to all 26 scholars for their dedication, resilience, and achievement. As they take their next steps, they carry with them not only a nationally recognized certification but also the confidence to pursue their goals and create better opportunities for themselves and their families.

Story by Elena Encio, PSFI Program Officer

Related stories:

PSFI and SPC Support Brigada Eskwela Through Bayanihan Bulilit in Pasacao

Through the Bayanihan Bulilit initiative, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC), and volunteers from the Shell Pasacao Terminal joined community partners to prepare Child Development Centers in Pasacao, Camarines Sur for the new school year. The collective effort provided learning materials, improved classroom facilities, and created better learning environments for 243 young learners.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: When Representation Opens Doors and Saves Lives

This Pride Month, PSFI celebrates Basha Cancillar, a community leader whose journey from a young volunteer to an HIV advocate is helping create safer, more inclusive spaces for people affected by and living with HIV. Through PROTECTS UPSCALE and partnerships with community organizations, Basha champions representation, dignity, and access to healthcare, proving that when people are seen, heard, and empowered, lives can be transformed.

More Than a Reunion: Celebrating Four Decades of the SKIL Legacy

More than four decades after receiving the opportunity to build their futures through the SKIL Program, alumni from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came together to celebrate a legacy of transformation, achievement, and service. Their stories stand as a testament to the enduring power of education, skills development, and the belief that true success is measured not only by what we achieve, but by how we help others succeed.

Project PASA Strengthens Sustainability and Community Impact Through MOA Signing

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Business Operations Manila, and Shell Pilipinas Corporation formalized their partnership for Project PASA (Passing Along Sustainably used Assets), an initiative that gives used furniture, mobile devices, and equipment a second life. Through the partnership, pre-loved assets are redirected to underserved communities, advancing sustainability, circularity, and social impact by ensuring valuable resources continue creating opportunities where they are needed most.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: How Joan dela Cerna is Building a Future Rooted in Care

After years of working abroad to provide for her family, Joan dela Cerna returned home with a renewed determination to build a future closer to her children. Through the Medical Scholarship Program (MSP) supported by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), she is pursuing her dream of becoming a caregiver while balancing her roles as a mother, student, and breadwinner. Her story is a reminder that when people are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute, they can create meaningful change for themselves, their families, and their communities.

RESCUE in Action: Building Fire-Ready and Resilient Communities in Macabalan

Under its RESCUE (Response to Communities Under Emergencies) program, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation, conducted a two-day fire safety and emergency response training in Barangay Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City. In partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection and the local government unit, the initiative equipped community volunteers and residents with essential fire prevention and response skills, helping strengthen local preparedness and build more resilient communities.