Stories of inspiration

Strengthening HIV Care: PSFI Helps Bridge Science and Compassion in Asia Pacific Training

Manila, Philippines– In the fight against HIV, knowledge is one of the most powerful forms of care. Last August 12, 2025, medical doctors, allied health professionals, and social workers from across the region gathered at the Penthouse of Dr. George S.K. Ty Medical Tower for the 2nd Asia Pacific HIV Practice Course—a four-day training designed to enhance skills in HIV prevention, treatment, psychosocial support, and innovative healthcare models.

The course, hosted by Manila Doctors Hospital in partnership with the National University Hospital Singapore and the Australian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine, sought to strengthen the regional network of HIV service providers by offering a holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate approach to HIV care.

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), through its PROTECTS UPSCALE program, proudly served as the local facilitator. Sub-recipients supports Darwin Tenoria and Rob Mortel worked closely with partner organizers to ensure that the sessions were not only technically sound but also inspiring and supportive for participants who dedicate their lives to inclusive and life-saving HIV services.

On the final day, participants stepped outside the classroom and into the real world through clinic and facility visits. This hands-on component provided them with firsthand insights into diverse approaches in HIV care, highlighting practical applications of strategies discussed throughout the course.

Why PSFI Invests in HIV Care

Since 2009, PSFI has been at the forefront of community-based HIV interventions in the Philippines. As the social arm of Shell companies in the country, PSFI recognizes that HIV is not only a medical issue but also a social one—touching on stigma, education, and equitable access to healthcare. Through its HIV programs, PSFI has worked with communities, health institutions, and partners to build capacities, strengthen systems, and empower people to seek and provide compassionate care.

For PSFI, supporting this Asia Pacific course was more than a logistical role; it was part of its mission to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge, tools, and empathy needed to save lives and restore dignity. By bridging science with compassion, PSFI continues to reaffirm its commitment to inclusive healthcare and healthier communities.

Related stories:

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Nurturing Young Minds to Transform Communities

Through Shell’s global program NXplorers, PSFI is planting seeds of change by equipping young Filipinos with tools in problem-solving, systems thinking, and collaboration. From tackling food security in farming towns to creating sustainable energy solutions in schools, NXplorers empowers students and teachers to turn knowledge into lasting community impact—proving that dunong, once shared, continues to grow and transform lives.

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Honoring Bravery in the Fight Against Malaria

In 1999, Palawan faced one of its deadliest threats: malaria. What began as the Kilusan Ligtas Malaria (KLM) program soon grew into the Movement Against Malaria (MAM)—a nationwide fight led by communities, health workers, and partners who embodied the spirit of maiseg, or bravery.

Today, with 60 provinces declared malaria-free, we celebrate not only the milestones but also the courage, compassion, and collaboration that continue to save lives.

43 Years of Transforming Lives: The PSFI Poster That Changed Mario’s Life

In 1983, Mario Dimaano was a young student from Batangas struggling to pay for school while working as a jeepney conductor. One day, he spotted a Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) poster about the Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal (SKIL) Scholarship—an opportunity that changed his life.

Through SKIL, Mario studied at TESDA’s Basic Machine Shop program, gaining skills and hope for a brighter future. Despite challenges, he persevered with tibay—a Batangueño word for strength and resilience—and eventually built a stable life abroad for his family.

Today, his story reflects PSFI’s 43-year mission to empower communities, nurture resilience, and create opportunities for generations to come.

43 Years of Transforming Lives: Advancing Health for All

For 43 years, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) has lived its mission of safeguarding life. Rooted in the Chavacano word Vida, we continue to protect health, nurture resilience, and uplift communities nationwide.

Through programs like PBSR, PROTECTS, and PROTECTS UPSCALE, PSFI has expanded HIV services across the country—advancing human rights in Zamboanga, opening the first community HIV center in Palawan, and strengthening local responses in Batangas.

More than a program, PSFI’s HIV response is a lifeline that safeguards life, health, and hope.

Lighting the Way Forward: PSFI, PhilDev, and Shell Empower Future Leaders Through 5-Day Leadership Camp

From August 4 to 8, 2025, Shell, PhilDev, and Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) hosted a five-day leadership camp in Manila for Shell-PhilDev scholars. The program blended mentoring, skills-building, and sessions on AI, diversity, and energy transition, preparing scholars to lead with purpose.

With guidance from Shell leaders and PhilDev mentors, scholars left the camp with knowledge, courage, and a stronger community—ready to shape a more sustainable future for the Philippines.