Stories of inspiration

Standing as a Good Neighbor: PSFI and Shell Pilipinas Corporation Bring Relief to Families in Pasacao

PASACAO, Camarines Sur | September 28, 2025

When Severe Tropical Storm Opong swept across Bicol, hundreds of families were forced to leave their homes in search of safety. In Barangay Sta. Rosa del Sur, Pasacao, ninety-four families evacuated, uncertain of what awaited them after the storm.

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), the social arm of Shell companies in the Philippines, immediately stepped in to extend help. Together with the barangay officials of Sta. Rosa del Sur, PSFI provided relief packs and essential goods to help families find comfort and regain hope during a difficult time.

“During crisis, you really get to see the resilience of a community. Pasacao might not have been within Typhoon Opong's path, but fear and doubt compelled many families to evacuate. We knew we couldn't do nothing. With Pilipinas Shell Foundation and our local partners, we provided relief, maybe humble in content but significant in intention. To families looking for safety and comfort, it was a testament that hope flourishes if kindness is extended.”
John Rhey Baranggot Terminal Operations Supervisor, Pasacao

The activity took place in Pasacao, a coastal town that has experienced both the generosity of the sea and the fury of storms. On September 28, 2025, PSFI and its partners came together to deliver aid to those who needed it most, showing how compassion can bridge fear and uncertainty.

Since its founding in 1982, PSFI has believed that being part of a community means standing with it through both triumphs and challenges. While Shell’s operations continue to power the nation’s progress, PSFI ensures that its heart beats with empathy and care, especially when disasters strike.

Through the spirit of bayanihan, barangay officials coordinated evacuation and relief efforts, while Shell Pilipinas Corporation’s Terminal Operations Supervisor John Rhey Baranggot and Terminal Operations Administrator Warren Dacayana represented the company in reaffirming its commitment to the community. Together, PSFI and its partners reminded families that recovery is not something you face alone. It is a journey built on unity, kindness, and hope.

As the rains eased and families returned home, what remained was a powerful lesson. Compassion and solidarity can withstand even the fiercest storms. PSFI’s presence in Pasacao continues to embody what it truly means to be a good neighbor, one that not only powers progress but also powers hope.

Related stories:

EJ’s Calling to Serve: A Life Dedicated to Community Empowerment

Driven by a passion for working with communities, EJ San Jose finds purpose in helping families strengthen their livelihoods, improve food security, and recognize new possibilities for their future. Through every home visit, training session, and conversation, he builds the trust that turns opportunities into meaningful and lasting change. As PSFI celebrates its 44th anniversary, EJ’s story reflects how its mission continues to move forward through people who choose to listen, serve, and empower others.

Where Bayanihan Lives: Maezel Cardel and a Community That Chose Hope

As PSFI celebrates its 44th anniversary, Maezel Cardel’s journey reflects the spirit of “Driven by Purpose. Powered by People.” From earning the affectionate nickname “Mae-Shell” to inspiring communities to take ownership of change, her story shows how trust, collaboration, and bayanihan can transform a shared purpose into lasting impact.

Mula sa Maliit na Tindahan Patungo sa Mas Matatag na Kinabukasan: Ang Kwento ni Alma Cajan

Sa pamamagitan ng Roots to Shoots (RTS) Pasacao 2.0 Program, na ipinatutupad ng Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. sa suporta ng Metrobank Foundation, Inc., unti-unting nababago ang buhay ni Alma Cajan. Mula sa masustansyang pagkain para sa kanyang anak hanggang sa pagpapalago ng kanilang sari-sari store, ipinapakita ng kanyang kuwento kung paano ang kaalaman at oportunidad ay maaaring magbukas ng daan tungo sa mas matatag na kinabukasan.