More Than a Chef

Melody P. Felitro, 36, is a mother of two, raising her children together with her husband, Jesi, a Barangay Health Worker. Her quiet strength carries a life shaped by hardship, perseverance, and the courage to keep moving towards her dreams.

Growing up in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, Melody faced life without ever meeting her biological father. From an early age, she witnessed the hardships of her mother, who worked as a vegetable vendor before and now runs a small store to support the family. Despite these efforts, financial challenges persisted, forcing Melody to set aside her education and step into the realities of life much sooner than she had hoped.

Determined to lift her family, Melody forged her own path. She started small, selling siomai, burgers, and hotdog sandwiches, juggling each day between making ends meet and caring for her children, yet her goal remained clear: to provide a better future for her children.

This determination led to a turning point in 2013, when her mother introduced her to CARD SME Bank, Inc., a thrift bank under CARD MRI. Becoming a client allowed Melody to access financial support that sustained her small business and helped meet their daily needs. More importantly, it marked the beginning of new opportunities that would gradually change the course of her life.

Years later, in 2025, another door opened through CARD MRI Hijos Tours, Inc., the tour company of CARD MRI. Melody was chosen as one of three clients to undergo training at the Center for Asian Culinary Arts in Davao City. Through this experience, she gained fundamental culinary skills that would soon lead her to an entirely new path.

Armed with new skills and self-assurance, Melody never thought she would find herself as a Sous Chef for CARD MRI Hijos Tours’ Food Tour program in Davao. Yet there she was, stepping into a role that once felt impossible.

Reflecting on her journey, Melody shares, “Nang naging Sous Chef ako, na-boost ang confidence ko sa pakikipag-ugnayan at pakikipag-usap sa maraming tao. At higit sa lahat, mas na-sustain ko ang pag-provide sa pangangailangan ng aking pamilya.”

As her confidence grew, so did her opportunities. Her experience in the culinary field eventually opened another door. Melody became part of the crew of BENTE Productions Inc., serving as a food stylist assistant for CARD MRI’s second film, “Kusinerang Bulag”.

From a young girl who grew up facing uncertainty, to a mother striving to make ends meet, she is now more than a chef who’s exploring opportunities in both culinary arts and film.

With her story, Melody is one of those who turned resilience into opportunity, proving that with determination and perseverance, even humble beginnings can lead to a purposeful and comfortable life.