Continuing the tradition of holding planning sessions out-of-town, the incoming RC Makati Board convened at Zambawood in San Narciso, Zambales. This trend, established during the term of IPP Michael Escaler in 2022 with a session at Punta Fuego in Batangas, and continued by Pres. Bing Matoto last year at Thunderbird in La Union, aims to foster camaraderie among board members.
PE Keith Harrison felt that the out-of-town format effectively strengthens bonds and enhances team spirit. With this in mind, he chose the serene setting of Zambawood, their own resort in San Narciso, Zambales, to host this year's planning session.
The trip started on May 17 with a lunch at Gourmet Garage at Subic Bay, serving as a second meeting point for the trip. After lunch, the team proceeded to their destination—Zambawood, a boutique resort that boasts six rooms, including two master bedrooms and four family rooms, a pool, and an entertainment area. The resort is surrounded by a pine forest perfect for photoshoots and is within walking distance from the beach.
Upon arrival, the board members were welcomed with a round of welcome drinks and storytelling by the owners, PE Keith & Rachel Harrison, followed by a tour of the resort. The guests then settled into their rooms, while those who could not be accommodated were billeted at Penta Beach Resort, just a five-minute drive from Zambawood.
In the evening, Zambawood was transformed into a more relaxing venue with cocktails by the pool and an acoustic band serenading the guests. After a sumptuous meal specially prepared by the resort, the usual singing and dancing capped off the day.
The next day, May 18, breakfast was served at Julyan’s BNB, still within the Zambawood compound. This resort, ideal for a quick escape from the city, features four rooms and a large camping site for outdoor enthusiasts.
After breakfast and a series of photo opportunities for the delegation, the RCM board settled into one of the rooms in Zambawood, which was converted into a boardroom setup. Meanwhile, the Anns enjoyed an outdoor trip, visiting the Magsaysay Museum and participating in a terrarium-making workshop, culminating with lunch at Ralli’s in Subic Bay.
The RCM incoming board sat down for an almost 9-hour session that started at 9 AM and ended past 5 PM. The planning session, themed “Reboot, Refresh, Renew,” was facilitated by Lavi Penaverde, founder and chief learning enabler of Opus Ad Lucem Inc., with incoming RAED Doris Ensomo as the resource person.
The session began with an activity where each member shared one thing they did differently in the recent past as a member of the Club. This was followed by a discussion on setting team norms for alignment and higher performance. The team committed to the following norms: Collaborative, Communicative, Strategic, and Accountable.
PE Keith then shared his key thrusts for the incoming year, which include delivering all RI, TRF, and district targets. He emphasized a focus on PWD support, environmental initiatives, enhancing the clubhouse resources, fundraising, member engagement, reorganizing committees, and most importantly, ensuring everyone has fun.
The session continued with a detailed dissection of each committee, where directors presented their projects and programs, outlining their objectives, goals, strategies, and measures. Each presentation was followed by an open forum. The final presentation was given by Treas. Tetu Garcia, who summarized the proposed budget as put forth by the directors.
After a grueling session, the incoming board, along with their spouses, all dressed in white, were transported to the beach. There, a bohemian-style setup awaited them for a taste of a beautiful sunset, providing a perfect end to a productive and memorable planning session. As the sun set, the team released lanterns into the sky, each with a wish, symbolizing their hopes for the upcoming year.
The fellowship didn’t end there, as the team gathered again for dinner at Zambawood with another band that made the night even more enjoyable. Relaxed, the team was more engaged, participating in singing and dancing, with some even playing a game of pool.
Joining and participating in the event were incoming President Keith & Rachel Harrison, incoming directors Boy Arteche, PN Eddie Galvez, Neil & Camille Makasiar, Andy Mañalac, Rodrigo & Marie Segura, Derrick & Jane Tan, and Winston & Adette Uy, as well as officers Paolo & Christine Turno, PP Fred & Mely Parungao, Carlo Ybanez, and incoming advisers PP David & CP Mache Ackerman, PP Louie & Tess Aseoche, PDG Tony Quila, and PDG Pepz Bengzon and partner Doris.
The Club would like to thank PE Keith & Rachel for hosting the accommodations and providing full use of Zambawood, including hosting the two dinner fellowships.
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