Stories of inspiration

Pathways to Progress: SKIL Scholars Seize Career Opportunities in CDO

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) recently spotlighted its SKIL (Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal) scholars in Cagayan de Oro City through a week of workforce readiness activities—culminating in a job fair that opened doors to real employment opportunities.

In partnership with the Cagayan de Oro Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the initiative began with preparatory sessions on resume writing, job application strategies, and interview techniques. These were designed to equip scholars with the tools and confidence to transition smoothly from training to the workplace.

The highlight of the initiative was the scholars’ participation in the Kalayaan Job Fair, held at Robinsons Cagayan de Oro in celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day. The fair was made possible through the collaborative efforts of PESO, the City College of Cagayan de Oro (CCCDO), TESDA, DOLE, and PSFI, among others. It featured 2,885 job vacancies from 39 companies—28 local and 11 overseas—and attracted 648 registered applicants.

Job fair statistics at a glance:

  • 454 applicants for local positions (181 male, 296 female)

  • 194 applicants for overseas roles (121 male, 73 female)

Promising outcomes:

  • 38 applicants deemed qualified

  • 153 advanced to final interviews

  • 88 scheduled for examinations

  • 70 hired on the spot (HOTS)

City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario P. Raagas, representing the local chief executive, graced the event and reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to youth empowerment and employment. His presence emphasized strong support for programs that bridge education and industry, particularly for young people from underserved communities.

This initiative reflects PSFI’s mission beyond skills training—ensuring that scholars are job-ready and connected to actual employment opportunities. By linking education to livelihoods, PSFI continues to pave pathways to progress for the next generation.

 

Photos courtesy of PESO Cagayan de Oro

Related stories:

MGCC Technical-Vocational Scholars Strengthen Leadership Through LEAD Workshop

Fifteen scholars under the MGCC Technical-Vocational Scholarship Program, implemented by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) with the support of the Manila Golf and Country Club Foundation, Inc. (MGCCFI), completed the LEAD Workshop, strengthening their leadership and workplace skills alongside their Basic Entrepreneurship with Customer Service NC II training.

RTS Pasacao 2.0 Strengthens Family Livelihoods Through Enterprise Support

Fifty-five child caregivers in Pasacao received livelihood assistance through RTS Pasacao 2.0, helping them establish or expand small enterprises that can provide more stable income for their families. By integrating livelihood support with maternal and child health interventions, the program empowers families to improve child nutrition, strengthen resilience, and build more sustainable futures.

A Mother’s Hands, A Caregiver’s Heart: How One Scholar Turned Sacrifice into Strength

For Maria Carmela “Mela” Andaya, caregiving began long before she entered the classroom. As a single mother of three, years of sacrifice, resilience, and unconditional love prepared her for a new purpose. Through the Medical Scholarship Program of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), Mela transformed an answered prayer into a pathway toward a brighter future for her family while inspiring other mothers to never give up on their dreams.

PSFI and San Isidro Solar Power Corp. Forge Partnership to Empower Farmers and Fisherfolk in Leyte

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and San Isidro Solar Power Corp. (SISPC) have formalized a partnership to launch the Sustainable Initiatives and Projects for Agri-Fisheries Growth and Development (SIPAG) program in Leyte. Designed to empower around 100 farmers and fisherfolk, the initiative will strengthen food security and sustainable livelihoods through capacity building, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable fisheries, enterprise development, and leadership training, reflecting the partners’ shared commitment to creating lasting opportunities for communities.

PSFI Earns Dual Finalist Recognition at the 2026 CSR Guild Awards

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) was recognized as a finalist in two categories at the 2026 CSR Guild Awards, with Response to Community Under Emergency (RESCUE) and PROTECTS UPSCALE earning national recognition for their impact in disaster resilience and health. The milestone affirms PSFI’s commitment to creating lasting change through community-centered programs that save lives, strengthen resilience, and improve access to healthcare.