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RC Makati, in partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, took a significant step forward in addressing child nutrition challenges through its Complementary Nutrition Program, held on November 22, 2024, at P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City. The event was led by Pres. Keith Harrison, accompanied by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo, IPP Bing Matoto, Dir. Neil Makasiar, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, and Dir. Boy Arteche, and Ann Tess Aseoche. Representing Kabisig ng Kalahi was its president, Ms. Vicky Wieneke, a steadfast advocate of child nutrition and a long-time partner of the club. The program commenced with an inspiring prayer song by Coro Pascualeño, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Teacher and emcee Ms. Marieta Garino warmly welcomed the attendees, while Principal Laarnie Alejandro opened the event with a heartfelt message about the importance of collective action in uplifting the lives of students. Ms. Wieneke followed with an engaging overview of Kabisig ng Kalahi’s complementary feeding initiatives, emphasizing how the government’s Supplementary Feeding Program was inspired by their success. Several members of the club delivered moving messages during the event. PP Freddie highlighted the importance of educating parents on preparing affordable and nutritious meals, enabling children to perform better in school and paving the way for a brighter future. Pres. Keith emphasized the transformative potential of proper nutrition, while Dir. Neil urged participants to take full advantage of the program’s resources, emphasizing the long-term impact on their families’ health and happiness. Dir. Boy reflected on how nurturing healthy children lays the groundwork for a strong and prosperous nation. Dir. Rodrigo drew a creative parallel to the movie Encanto, likening the initiative to the magical transformations made possible through care and dedication. Finally, IPP Bing closed the program with early Christmas cheer, introducing the Club’s Last Angel Gift-Giving Project. Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Rotary Club of Makati, Kabisig ng Kalahi, and P. Villanueva Elementary School also happened, symbolizing a strong partnership aimed at sustaining nutrition and educational efforts. This was followed by the ceremonial “milk toast,” where students received their first glass of milk under the program. Adding joy to the occasion, children were also given age-appropriate toys courtesy of the Last Angel Project, sparking smiles and excitement among the young beneficiaries. The school expressed its gratitude by presenting plaques of appreciation to both RC Makati and Kabisig ng Kalahi for their unwavering support. To cap off the day, the children enjoyed a hearty meal of monggo. After the successful event, fellowship continued at Bulgogi Brothers in Mall of Asia, where PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo hosted lunch for the Club members and partners, celebrating another impactful milestone in their shared mission of service.

In an unprecedented show of support and fellowship, a 29-member delegation from RC Makati, including members, their Anns, and family, embarked on a memorable journey to Taiwan. This impressive turnout, rarely seen outside of Rotary International Conventions, marked a historic moment as the group traveled to celebrate the 63rd charter anniversary of RC Makati’s sister club, the Rotary Club of Taoyuan. Coordinating the arrival of such a large group was no small feat, as members traveled on different schedules, making it a logistical challenge for the host club. Despite this, RC Taoyuan exhibited outstanding hospitality, ensuring that every arrival was warmly welcomed and thoughtfully accommodated. Michael Hsu, Paolo Turno, and Henry & Marga Aquende were the first to arrive, touching down in Taiwan a week before the official program began. On the morning of November 4, another group consisting of PP Louie & Tess Aseoche, Chito & Vicky Cantada, Johnny Ang, and Yvonne Kuan, along with friends Sandra Cheng and Rowena Padpad, arrived and were greeted at the airport by members of RC Taoyuan. The Parungaos—PP Fred & Mely, joined by Patrick & Mitzi—followed later that evening. On November 5, another batch of delegates arrived, led by Pres. Keith & First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP JunJun & Cecille Dayrit, Derrick & Jane Tan with their son Mark, and CoS Ron Dotaro. They were followed by PE Eddie & Trina Galvez, IPP Bing Matoto, and Cat Rufino in the evening. PP Carlo Rufino rounded up the delegation on November 6, just in time for the grand Charter celebration. Those who arrived early were treated to the fullest extent by RC Taoyuan’s hospitality. They enjoyed a delightful beer dinner at Blue Jazz and, the following day, explored Dadaocheng, including a tour of the Taipei Railway Museum, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, and the bustling local market. Delegates arriving on November 5 were welcomed with a sumptuous lunch at the Monarch Plaza Hotel, where most of the group was accommodated. On the evening of November 5, the delegation gathered on the third floor of the Monarch Plaza Hotel for RC Taoyuan’s first official event, the Welcome Dinner. This lively gathering brought together Rotarians from Japan and Korea, who are also sister clubs of RC Taoyuan. The evening began with a captivating dance performance by the Anns of RC Taoyuan, followed by brief messages from Pres. Vision and the international directors of each participating club, including RC Makati’s Dir. Derrick Tan. Highlights of the evening included an exchange of gifts, where RC Makati presented a certificate for the reef buds, the 60th-anniversary coffee table book, and a $2,000 donation to RC Taoyuan’s projects. RC Taoyuan reciprocated with thoughtful tokens for all their guests, making everyone feel appreciated. The evening culminated in music, dancing, and an abundance of toasts—a hallmark of RC Taoyuan’s reputed hospitality. On November 6, the delegation immersed themselves in Taiwan’s rich history and culture with a tour of the National Palace Museum in Taipei. Home to nearly 700,000 Chinese artifacts and artworks, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into centuries of heritage. This was followed by a delightful lunch at Silks Palace, where exceptional cuisine and fellowship took center stage. The 63rd Charter Anniversary Gala unfolded in the evening at Royal-Wedding Events Place in Taoyuan. The event commenced with a soulful performance by the Vox Nativa Children’s Choir, featuring aboriginal children from Taiwan’s Jade Mountain region. Their pure and harmonious voices set an awe-inspiring tone for the celebration. The formal program began with heartfelt messages from PP Realty (Lu Li-Xian), the Chair of the Event, Pres. Vision (Zeng Zhen-Lian), and DG Rehouse (Chen Ching-Hsiu). During his address, Pres. Keith Harrison highlighted RC Makati’s several significant collaborations with RC Taoyuan, including the latest scholarship initiative at Dualtech. He expressed hope that our Club can reciprocate the kindness and generosity of RC Taoyuan by being host to a large delegation next year to celebrate RC Makati’s 59th Charter Anniversary. The evening concluded in true RC Taoyuan fashion—with lively drinking, singing, and dancing. The RC Makati delegation enthusiastically joined the festivities, taking to the stage and dance floor to celebrate the occasion. This remarkable trip epitomized the Rotary spirit of fellowship and service. RC Taoyuan’s warm hospitality, combined with the enthusiasm of the RC Makati delegation, made the 63rd Charter Anniversary of RC Taoyuan an unforgettable experience and a testament to the formidable partnership between the two clubs.

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Severe Tropical Storm Kristine brought extensive devastation across 17 regions in the Philippines, leaving approximately 7.1 million people affected, with a tragic trail of destruction. Over 935,000 individuals sought refuge in evacuation centers or found temporary shelter with relatives or friends as Kristine damaged more than 83,000 houses and destroyed 61,746 hectares of crops. This catastrophe severely impacted transportation and communication networks, making it the deadliest cyclone to hit the country this year. In response, RC Makati launched a significant relief operation spearheaded by the club’s disaster relief committee, led by committee chair Dir. Chris Ferareza and overseen by Dir. Johnny Ang. This timely initiative extended crucial support to over 1,700 families—benefiting at least 5,300 individuals—across seven provinces hit hardest by the storm. Despite the challenges posed by impassable roads, intermittent communications, and power outages, the committee maintained close contact with local partners in the affected areas to coordinate aid. The RC Makati warehouse was stocked with relief supplies, with Rotaractors led by Pres. Hira Hermoso, conducting a large-scale repacking effort on October 24 to ensure swift delivery to those in need. October 25 marked the beginning of hands-on relief efforts. With the first signs of sunshine, CoS Ron Dotaro traveled to Bauan, Batangas, where he distributed around 160 mats and blankets to families sheltered at the local evacuation center in partnership with RC Downtown Batangas. Additionally, RC Makati provided meals to 150 UPLB students stranded on campus due to limited access to resources, including water, electricity, and transportation, with the support of UPSILON and Sigma Delta Phi through our Rotaractor Karylle. On the same day, RC Makati partnered with RC Tuguegarao, led by Pres. Arnel Taguinod, to deliver relief goods to 500 families in two affected areas in Cagayan. The relief efforts continued on October 26, when PDG Pepz Bengzon and CoS Ron embarked on a five-hour journey to Lingayen. In partnership with RC Lingayen, led by Pres. Nikhil Chandra Dey, they distributed 140 mats and blankets to families in the flood-ravaged Aplaya Resettlement near Lingayen Gulf. Meanwhile, Dir. Chris Ferareza and PE Eddie Galvez headed to Bay, Laguna, where, in partnership with RC Bay, led by Pres. Chea Violanta, they distributed mats, blankets, and food packs to over 300 families still residing in evacuation centers. Later that day, Rotaractors gathered again at the Clubhouse to prepare an additional 300 food packs for upcoming distributions. On October 27, Pres. Keith Harrison and PDG Pepz traveled to Isabela, delivering P60,000 to support RC Cauayan’s relief mission, which provided food packs to 200 families in need. By October 28, RC Makati was on its fourth day of relief missions, returning to Batangas—this time to assist Talisay, where recent landslides had claimed at least 20 lives. In response to an urgent request from Balibago Waterworks through PP Tito Panlilio, CoS Ron represented the Club for the delivery of 300 food packs and 50 sets of mats and blankets, which were distributed across three evacuation sites, including Balibago headquarters, now a temporary shelter for affected staff. Despite additional aid from various organizations, needs remain critical in Talisay, where many families face prolonged displacement due to destroyed homes in high-risk zones. On October 30, Pres. Keith traveled to Laurel, Batangas, where RC Makati distributed 80 sets of mats and blankets to families still in evacuation shelters, again in partnership with Balibago Waterworks. To date, RC Makati has provided relief goods valued at P474,000, reaching impacted communities in Batangas, Laguna, Pangasinan, Isabela, and Cagayan. This was made possible through nearly P900,000 in generous donations from RC Makati members Jun Abrazaldo, Rante Aguila, PP Fidel Alfonso, Felix Ang, Dir. Johnny Ang, Arthur Antonino, PP Louie Aseoche, George Barcelon, James Bosch, Gani Buenaflor, Chito Cantada, Malik Melvin Castelino, Philip Cea, Roger Collantes, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, Leo de Leon, Anonymous, Paquito Dizon, PP Michael Escaler, Aiai Galvez, PE Eddie Galvez, PDG Sid Garcia, Shav Halley, Michael Hsu, Pres. Keith Harrison, Harley Leano, Julian Lim, PP Rene Limjoco, Tony Lopez, Wash Lou, Dir. Neil Makasiar, Andy Mañalac, PP Peter Manzano, PP Conrad Marty, IPP Bing Matoto, PP Bimbo Mills, David Nithyananthan, DGE Reggie Nolido and PEs, Manny Padiernos, Jun Palafox, PP Tito Panlilio, PP Fred Pascual, Freddie Placino, Andrew Prieto, PDG Tony Quila, PP Charlie Rufino, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, Ronnie Siasoyco, Philip Soliven, Johnny Sy, Dir. Derrick Tan, Johnson Tan, Mike Toledo, Dir. Winston Uy, PP Eddie Yap, Sam Young and PP Roland Young. With Typhoon Leon hitting Northern Luzon and Typhoon Nica crossing Luzon just yesterday, RC Makati remains vigilant in monitoring these storms. The Club is prepared to deploy additional goods as needed, using ongoing member donations. Plans are also underway for post-rehabilitation initiatives, particularly in severely impacted regions such as Bicol, where many families will face an extended period of recovery. RC Makati remains steadfast in its mission to support Filipino communities through immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation efforts, demonstrating resilience and compassion in the face of adversity. (Note: “resilience” is an overused term, that already acquires a negative connotation, as it seems to excuse the government from fulfilling its task in preempting the readiness efforts in communities that will be affected by a typhoon.)

In a continued effort to promote environmental consciousness among the youth, RC Makati successfully sponsored two film showings of “A Thousand Forests” in collaboration with I.Syoot Multimedia. The screenings, held for nearly 3,000 students across two schools, highlighted the critical role forests play in combating climate change and the importance of multi-sectoral efforts in reforestation. A Thousand Forests is an initiative led by the University of the Philippines Los Baños - College of Forestry and Natural Resources (UPLB-CFNR) and supported by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The project aims to plant two million hectares of forests by 2050 through broad collaboration. On October 12, 2024, over 2,600 students from the Sisters of Mary School – Girlstown in Silang, Cavite, participated in the first film screening. Leading the event were Pres. Keith & First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP Charlie and Chinit Rufino, PP JunJun Dayrit, PP Louie Aseoche, and Rtn. CB Rivilla. The day began with an MTV recording of the song and dance performance “Let’s Build a Forest” by Girlstown students and six child actors—Sky, Rashid, Champ, Sunshine, Morena, and Ali—held in the school’s gymnasium. RC Makati members joined in the lively performance, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Following the MTV shoot, students, actors, and RC Makati members participated in a symbolic tree-planting activity at the Girlstown mini-forest. Afterward, the Sisters of Mary hosted a hearty lunch for all attendees. The afternoon continued with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the UPLB Climate Change Exhibit at the Girlstown library. UPLB-CFNR Dean Marlo Mendoza, guest speaker at the RC Makati’s Dinner Meeting last August 27, delivered opening remarks. The ceremony was also attended by Ms. Susan Afan, president of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation, UPLB Chancellor Jose and Ruth Camacho, and Sr. Elena Belarmino, General Superior of the Sisters of Mary. The film showing, which took place at the gymnasium, opened with a message from Pres. Keith Harrison, emphasizing the need for youth involvement in climate action. The students watched attentively as the film shed light on the importance of preserving and restoring forests for future generations. On October 17, 2024, the A Thousand Forests film was shown to 500 students from Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School, RC Makati’s adopted school in Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. The event was attended by Pres. Keith, FA Rachel, Past District Governor Tony Quila, District Governor-Elect Reggie Nolido, PP Louie Aseoche, Rtn. Rante Aguila, school principal Mrs. Juliet Melo, and selected teachers. Before the screening, Pres. Keith addressed the students, highlighting the significance of the film and the role they can play in environmental preservation. After the screening, students and teachers enjoyed a meal provided by the RC Makati, capping off an enlightening day focused on environmental education and awareness. The “A Thousand Forests” project has gained significant momentum since the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) during the RC Makati dinner meeting on August 27, where the club committed to sponsoring the initiative with Php 170,000. This environmental advocacy aims to inspire and empower the next generation to be active participants in the fight against climate change.

Halloween excitement filled the air at the Rotary Club of Makati Clubhouse on October 12, 2024, as RC Makati hosted the Pinoy Halloween Mamaw Party. Over 120 children from Barangay Guadalupe Viejo joined the festivities, showcasing their creativity by donning costumes inspired by Filipino mythical creatures and superheroes. The event, a vibrant mix of culture and fun, was a hit with kids aged 3 to 12, who immersed themselves in a world of folklore and fantasy. The Rotary Community Corps (RCC) Bukluran played a key role in making this event a success, ensuring that the children could attend. Brgy. Chairman Hein Angeles and his council were also acknowledged for providing essential amenities, including tables, chairs, and tents, contributing to the comfort of all attendees. The Prodigious team, led by Ann Sue Ann Nolido of Prodigious Philippines, masterfully managed the event’s program, offering a variety of engaging activities, games, and entertainment. They also generously sponsored loot bags, prizes, and McDonald’s meals, making the experience even more enjoyable for the kids and their families. A surprise visit from Grimace, McDonald’s beloved mascot, added sparking joy among the young attendees with his playful antics. RC Makati members, led by Pres. Keith Harrison and First Ann Rachel, arrived in high spirits after wrapping up a service project in Silang, Cavite. District Governor-Elect Reggie Nolido and Sue Ann, PP JunJun Dayrit and spouse Cecille, along with their grandchildren Pio and Marga, were among the notable attendees. The youth wing, Rotaract Club of Makati, under the leadership of Pres. Hira Hermoso together with PP Aj Sembrano, Princess Pol and Calvin Piñero, were also actively involved, ensuring the event was memorable for everyone. A special surprise marked the occasion as Ann Sue was treated to an early birthday celebration. Attendees joined in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” as she was presented with a cake, highlighting her continued dedication to the community. This celebration marked the third year that Prodigious Philippines, led by Ann Sue Ann, has partnered with RC Makati to host the Halloween Party, which has now become her personal tradition of giving back during her birthday month. The event concluded with RC Makati hosting an early dinner for the Prodigious team, sealing another successful Halloween Party with laughter, community spirit, and memories that will linger long after the costumes were put away.

RC Makati has once again cemented its position as a leader in Rotary, receiving the prestigious “Best of the Best Award” for Rotary Year 2023-24 under the exemplary leadership of IPP Bing Matoto. The award was presented during the District Awards Night, held at the Enderun Tent, BGC, on October 15. The event, themed “Mission Accomplished: Top Guns on Parade”, celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments of clubs across District 3830 under the guidance of IPDG Jay Tambunting. The “Best of the Best Award” is the highest distinction a Rotary club can achieve in the district, recognizing outstanding performance in key areas such as service projects, membership growth, and contributions to The Rotary Foundation (TRF). Out of 130 clubs in the district, only nine earned this prestigious recognition, placing RC Makati among the most distinguished clubs in Rotary. In addition to this top honor, RC Makati was also recognized as the No. 1 Club in the District for per Capita Annual Fund giving to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. While IPP Bing Matoto was unable to attend the ceremony due to personal travel, Pres. Keith Harrison, along with PDG Pepz Bengzon, PP Louie Aseoche, PP JunJun Dayrit, VP Chris Ferareza, and Dir. Andy Mañalac, graciously accepted the awards on his behalf. Here is the list of awards received by RC Makati: • Outstanding Membership Achievement Award: Membership Retention – for achieving the district goal of retaining at least 90% of existing members. • Outstanding Club in Administration – for exemplary performance in club administration, completing all mandatory Rotary International and district requirements, and efficiently operating to provide service to its communities while retaining members and developing leaders. • Distinguished Membership Achievement Award: Club Champion-Innovative Clubs – for co-chartering Rotary Club of Aim, contributing to the global goal of creating new, innovative clubs. • Exemplary Membership Achievement Award: Creating Hope, Great at 8+ – for recruiting and retaining at least eight new members, significantly contributing to club growth. • Exemplary Club Recognition – for achieving the Rotary Citation for RY 2023-24, demonstrating compliance with Rotary’s strategic priorities. • Outstanding Membership Achievement Award: Membership Sponsorship Category – for having one of the highest numbers of members sponsoring new members, fostering inclusivity. • Top 5 in Contributions to the Annual Fund during RY 2023-24. • Top 5 in Per Capita Contributions to the Annual Fund during RY 2023-24. • Top 5 in Contributions to the PolioPlus Fund during RY 2023-24. • $1,500 PolioPlus Club during RY 2023-24. • US$100 Average Giving, 100% Member Participation. • US$100 Per Capita, 100% Member Participation. • Harry Ruggles Society Achievement Award – for fulfilling the pledge to recruit and retain at least one new member, awarded to TGP Bing Matoto, PP Cesar Campos, IPP Michael Escaler, James Julian Lim, Neil Makasiar, DGN Reggie Nolido, and Porsche Peña.

The Arceemak Shooters gathered at the Southern Police District Headquarters Shooting Range in Taguig City on Saturday, October 5, 2024 for a day of thrilling competition and camaraderie. The event, organized by Oliver Buenaflor, son of Rtn. Gani Buenaflor, brought together a diverse group of enthusiasts who share a passion for precision shooting. The day was filled with competitive matches, teamwork, and friendly banter, creating an exciting and memorable experience for all participants. The event drew an enthusiastic group of 15 participants, including family members and guests, such as Dir. Boy Arteche, Gani Buenaflor with his son Oliver Buenaflor, and granddaughter Casey Buenaflor, Ed Rojas with his sons Francis and Gino Rojas, along with Ramon Garcia, George Haxton, Johnny Ang, Felix Yulo, Raymund Peralta, and guests Eric Salido, Donald Limcaco, and Bianca. The participants, ranging from seasoned shooters to newcomers, took part in various matches designed to test their accuracy and speed. The highlight of the event was the man-to-man shooting match, where shooters competed head-to-head. After an intense series of rounds, Oliver Buenaflor emerged as the champion. Following the individual matches, the event took a thrilling turn with a team competition: Team Arceemak versus the Team Range Officers in a 5 versus 5 showdowns. Representing Team Arceemak were Gani Buenaflor, George Haxton, Johnny Ang, Ramon Garcia, and the youngest participant, Casey Buenaflor. Despite the stiff competition from the Range Officers, Team Arceemak triumphed, demonstrating not only their shooting abilities but also their strong teamwork and coordination. The Arceemak Shooters, known for their love of gun shooting and friendly competition, thoroughly enjoyed the day’s activities. The success of the event, organized meticulously by Oliver Buenaflor, left the participants eagerly anticipating the next gathering.