October brings with it many celebrations, but perhaps none more iconic than Oktoberfest—a global tradition of enjoying beer and camaraderie. However, for Rotary, October holds even greater significance. This month marks World Polio Day on October 24, a day recognized by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about polio and the ongoing efforts to eradicate this crippling disease.
As Rotary has been at the forefront of the fight against polio for decades, RC Makati decided to merge the festive spirit of Oktoberfest with a noble cause. On October 18, the 3rd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center was transformed into a Bavarian wonderland, where tradition met advocacy. Wooden benches were laid out, and waitresses donned classic beer maid attire, serving guests with flair. Live music filled the room, while the more than 200 attendees enjoyed some traditional German cuisine, and indulged in craft beers.
The evening kicked off at 6:00 PM, with seven food and beer concessionaires—Engkanto Brewery, U!Bro, Mabdul Cerveza Artesana, Taza Manila, Julyan Hub, Yummy Dumplings, and Chad’s Cafe—welcoming guests with a variety of delicious offerings. While enjoying their meals, attendees watched a slideshow of RC Makati’s activities that highlighted the club’s ongoing service projects and community impact.
At 6:30 PM, the formal program began, with Howie Calleja taking on the role of emcee, adding fun and energy to the night. A memorable moment was when Pres. Keith Harrison made his entrance, introduced by James Bond video clips played during the Induction. In his message, Pres. Keith welcomed the attendees and thanked them for their support. In a symbolic gesture, he wore a white coat and bow tie, but in a “superhero” moment, he removed them to reveal an End Polio Now shirt beneath, emphasizing the importance of the night’s cause and Rotary’s enduring fight against polio.
Next on stage was PE Eddie Galvez, chairman of the Oktoberfest committee, who took the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of his committee members—Anton Cabrera, Howie Calleja, Pres. Keith Harrison, CB Rivilla, Paolo Turno, and Bom Villatuya—for ensuring the event’s success. He also expressed gratitude to the event sponsors, including his own GG&A Club Shares, as well as generous contributions from club members Felix Ang, Universal Leaf Philippines Inc. through Dir. Winston Uy, Anthony Jude “AJ” Violago, and Balibago Waterworks through PP Tito Panlilio.
Since there will be no Friday Night Lights event hosted by birthday celebrants this month, the October and November birthday celebrants were recognized during Oktoberfest. Celebrants included PP Carlo Rufino, James Bosch, Arman Cataga, PP Eddie Yap, PP Roger Davis, Patrick Parungao, Roger Collantes, Roger Sarmiento, Carlo Ybañez, Tony Tan, Felix Ang, Hiro Oba, Jay Bernardo, Sam Young, Andrew Prieto, David Aboitiz, CB Rivilla, Ador Hizon, Jojo Binay, Michael Hsu, Dir. Johnnu Ang, VP/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Mark Gan, and Ed Rojas. These celebrants also generously contributed to cover the cost of styling the event, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.
Of course, Oktoberfest wouldn’t be complete without entertaining games, including the crowd-favorite Beer-drinking contest, which was held during every entertainment break. Among the winners were DGE Reggie Nolido, and others who took home bragging rights. The event also featured exciting raffles, with prizes such as Polio Bears, Oktoberfest mugs, and bottles of Macallan. Although there was no formal attire competition, Rtn. Shav Haley stood out with his Bavarian-inspired outfit.
The rest of the night was filled with jamming and dancing to the live music of Ang Bagong Luto ni Enriquez and Stank Tank featuring Yanni Diola, keeping the energy high and spirits lifted. D3830 Governor Prescy Yulo dropped by later that evening and shared the dance floor a bit to show her support to the event.
It was truly a night of fun, music, camaraderie, and giving back to the community, as RC Makati’s Oktoberfest for End Polio Now brought everyone together for a meaningful cause.
Comentarios