The Hatch+ Program reached its pinnacle on March 22, 2025, with the final pitching event at the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center, RC Makati Clubhouse, marking the culmination of a ten-session journey launched in August 3, 2024 in partnership with StartUp Village. From an initial cohort of ten teams, five promising startups emerged, each presenting innovative business proposals aimed at addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Graced by esteemed members of RC Makati, including Pres. Keith Harrison, Program Chair Bom Villatuya, Director Johnny Ang, Rtn. Aaron with Ann Daianne Mempin, and Paolo Turno, the event emphasized the club’s unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and empowering individuals to create sustainable enterprises. In his opening remarks, Pres. Keith emphasized that the Hatch+ Program was more than just a competition, it was a transformative journey of growth and resilience. Carlo Calimon, President and Co-founder of StartUp Village, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of adaptability and perseverance in entrepreneurship. The Hatch+ Program showcased the culmination of months of innovation, perseverance, and entrepreneurial development. Ms. Rosa Javier, CEO and Founder of Laya Creative Hub, opened the segment by presenting Laya’s mission to empower persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) through creative rehabilitation and vocational programs. Over two years, Laya trained 50 artists, facilitated over Php 200,000 in sales, and developed the HEL (Holistic Well-being, Empowerment, and Livelihood) model to enhance business sustainability. Their latest venture, Laya Handmade Leather Bags, featured eco-printed packaging from natural materials, aiming to generate Php 25 million in revenue within five years, increase PDLs’ income by 40%, and expand training programs through strategic partnerships. Juan Dalisay Jr., founder of Pantrypoints Circle, followed with an innovative approach to addressing food insecurity and waste through a moneyless circular economy. His system integrated food rescue operations, a ledger-based transaction model using points instead of money, sustainable urban farming, and a community-driven responsibility framework. Despite challenges such as flooding and low crop yields, the initiative refined its strategies to create an inflation-free, barter-based economy. Dalisay emphasized that collaborative efforts from stakeholders could help break the cycle of food waste and hunger. Next, Blossom Morante, CEO and Founder of FURK (Fur Kingdom), introduced a digital pet care platform designed to offer 24/7 pet services, including walking, grooming, home visits, and international pet travel assistance. Built as a web-based platform with plans for a mobile app, FURK ensured cashless transactions, appointment scheduling, and real-time updates, mirroring Airbnb’s model. Targeting urban hubs like BGC, Makati, Eastwood, and Capitol Commons, FURK projected a return on investment within two years, positioning itself as a game-changer in the pet care industry. Meanwhile, Florante Sangrenes, CEO and Co-founder of Emathrix Robotics, delivered his pitch via a video recording, as he was attending a workshop. Lastly, Sean Calzada, Marketing Senior Mission Specialist of Kadakareer, tackled the employment gap among Filipino youth by introducing a virtual apprenticeship program that provided project-based training in tech and digital skills. By partnering with companies, Kadakareer streamlined hiring processes while equipping students with hands-on experience. With a 60% job placement rate in 2024, the initiative aimed to increase placements to 80% within six months, calling for investors and corporate partners to help scale its impact. Following the presentations, an engaging Q&A session allowed audience members to provide valuable insights and constructive feedback to the pitchers. As the event concluded, participants received certificates, recognizing their commitment and achievements in the Hatch+ Program. In his closing remarks, Bom Villatuya, Chairman of the Hatch+ Program, emphasized the importance of innovation, resilience, and collaboration in entrepreneurship. He reaffirmed the RCM’s commitment to fostering business development in partnership with StartUp Village and encouraged participants to remain engaged in their ventures. The Hatch+ Program, spanning ten transformative sessions, has equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with critical skills, mentorship, and industry insights, paving the way for new opportunities and impactful solutions in various industries.

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After successfully completing the program for teachers and parents of Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School in Makati, RC Makati once again responded to a call for help. A request for support came from Kibungan, a town nestled in the mountains of Benguet. Recognizing the urgency of the need, the Club swiftly arranged an online meeting with Mari-An, a journalist based in Benguet, alongside two teachers from Kibungan. The educators expressed their challenges in addressing the needs of their special education (SPED) students and emphasized the lack of proper training and specialized classrooms to cater to them. The need for such initiatives is evident. Data shows that one in every 100 Filipinos is on the developmental/autism spectrum (the spectrum is very wide from low to highly functioning), which translates to approximately 1.2 million individuals living with autism in the country today. Unfortunately, many schools in the Philippines, especially those in remote mountainous areas, have limited or no access to SPED training. Without proper support, children with special needs face significant barriers to education and personal development. On March 6-8, RC Makati brought one of the biggest training programs it has ever conducted to the Baguio Teachers Camp, benefiting over 250 teachers from Apayao, Benguet, and Baguio. Many of these teachers endured a grueling 10-hour journey, including a four-hour walk just to reach the bus station. The “Special” Magic project is one of RC Makati’s flagship initiatives for the year, designed to enhance the educational experiences of learners with special needs. By equipping teachers, parents, and guardians with critical knowledge and tools, the project seeks to improve the development of children with disabilities under their care and guidance. It aims to impart specialist skills to foster an integrated and supportive learning and development environment for children with developmental disabilities. The training would not have been successful without the support of our partners – our brother club, RC Baguio Summer Capital through PE Raio Bautista, which provided coordination and logistical support (including volunteer undergraduates assisting the breakout sessions and other activities); the Department of Education through Sec. Sonny Angara for providing the venue for two nights at a special discount; and Balai Tulu-an Development Center through Ricky Tumadiang, which implemented the two-day training. There to support the training and participate in a weekend of fellowship were Pres. Keith & Rachel Harrison, PDG Pepz Bengzon, James & Jenny Bosch, George & Anika Haxton, Wash & Pizza Lou, Dir. Neil & Camille Makasiar, IPP Bing Matoto, Philip Soliven, and Dir. Winston & Adette Uy. The event commenced on March 6 with a meet and greet for the teacher participants at the Baguio Teachers Camp. Before dinner, the program included a talk conducted by Chary Mercado, author and children’s rights advocate, who provided her books, videos, and discussion points for teachers to use in the classroom. The issue of child abuse and human trafficking was included in the discussion at the request of PE Eddie Galvez, as it will be one of the signature projects he plans to implement next Rotary year. The Baguio camp served as a good pilot to assess the effectiveness of the talk. Day 1 ended with a fellowship dinner generously hosted, for our club members present and attendees from RC Baguio Summer Capital, by Dir. Winston & Adette at their Camp John Hay home, featuring a sumptuous meal, entertaining music (including a surprise guest appearance by Peggy Geiser who performed 3 songs – more on her later), and delectable spirits. On March 7, the official start of the Special Magic training began with an opening session emceed by PE Raio, with an opening message from CP Gil Bautista. Pres. Keith highlighted Rotary’s mission, the Four-Way Test, and his signature project supporting SPED students. George shared his experience raising a child with autism and the available interventions for SPED students. First Ann Rachel shared her personal advocacy for empowering SPED students to become productive members of society. After the messages, the teachers focused on the actual training, with the agenda for the day including discussions and workshops on Understanding Learners with Disabilities, analysis based on needs, weaknesses, strengths, and medical diagnosis, adaptation of curriculum, instructional strategies, and designing of Individualized Education Programs (IEP). For the RC Makati members, there was a short shooting for the Rotary Digital videocast, which is being produced by I-Syoot and will be one of the signature public image campaigns of the club. It will feature the needs and the impact of the projects on the beneficiaries. While the training was ongoing, the RC Makati team had a free morning. Pres. Keith, IPP Bing, PDG Pepz, James & Jenny took the opportunity to play golf at Pine Woods with PE Raio of RC Baguio Summer Capital, while others enjoyed a relaxed morning and later met for lunch at Canto. In the early evening, the team reconvened at Baguio Teachers Camp for a special performance by Peggy Geiser, an autistic opera singer. She delivered a stunning performance of five songs, receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience. Her performance was more than just entertainment—it was a powerful testament to how, with the right support and development, individuals with special needs can find their place in society. She even got the teachers dancing, proving that inclusion and empowerment make all the difference. Day 2 ended with a fellowship dinner hosted by RC Baguio Summer Capital at BB Restobar. Here they enjoyed Japanese food, videoke, and rounds and rounds of drinks. Peggy, with her mother, Amor, again made a guest appearance and sung duets with Gov Pepz and IPP Bing. The final day of training, March 9, marked the closing ceremony at Baguio Teachers Camp. During this session, Pres. Keith and FA Rachel introduced their son, Julyan, whose talents in painting, cooking, and farming served as an inspiration to the teachers. It was an emotional moment for FA Rachel, who addressed the teachers from the heart, emphasizing that they (the dedicated teachers in the room) play a vital role in shaping the future of special needs students. The program concluded with the awarding of certificates to all the participants as well as raffle for those who joined the Facebook Community which will serve as platform for SPED resources and discussions (on FB, the RCM Special Magic community group now has over 270 members – all teachers with a passion for special needs education). The Club also recognized those who posted their key learnings under the hashtag #RotarySpecialMagic. It may have been just two days of training, and while it may not be enough to solve all challenges, it certainly equipped teachers with valuable skills to better understand and support their special needs students. And that is where the magic truly lies.

Cagayan de Oro is facing an alarming mental health crisis. In June 2023, a news report revealed that the state-run Northern Mindanao Medical Center admitted an average of five individuals per week for suicide attempts. The city recorded a staggering 162% increase in suicide cases in the first half of 2023, with 76 reported cases compared to just 29 in 2022 and 18 in 2021. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, RC Makati collaborated with its brother club, RC Cagayan de Oro (RC CDO), to bring the SuPEERheroes program to the city. The program, a mental health initiative of the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation and the signature project of RC Makati last Rotary year under the leadership of IPP Bing Matoto, is designed to empower student leaders and educators in providing peer-to-peer support and early intervention for mental health concerns. In a striking coincidence, in the afternoon of March 2, while Pres. Keith was at the executive lounge of LimKetKai Hotel for a media interview about the program, a 15-year-old man was rescued trying to jump at Kagay-an Bridge, a bridge they were looking at the entire time during the interview. On March 3, the complete succession team of RC Makati was present to participate in the opening session of the 4-day training. Attendees included Pres. Keith Harrison with FA Rachel, PE Eddie Galvez, PN Howie Calleja, and PND Chris Ferareza, accompanied by CoS Ron. During the short program, RC CDO Pres. Neil Que emphasized the importance of addressing depression, stating that the battle to end this fight begins with the pioneers of Northern Mindanao SuPEERheroes. Jean Goulbourn addressed the participants, providing an overview of the program, while Pres. Keith shared the historical background on the support RC Makati has given to this initiative. 80 students and 20 teachers participated in the 4-day training from Cagayan de Oro College -PHINMA, Cagayan de Oro National High School, Capitol University – Basic Education Department, Carmen National High School, Corpus Christi High School, Gusa Regional Science High School, Lumbia National High School, Macabalan National High School, Pilgrim Christian College, and Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan High School. The Basic Level training began by emphasizing the importance of mental health and self-care. On the first day, topics such as Self-Awareness, Goal-Setting, and Self-Care were introduced. The second day delved into understanding Love Languages, fostering meaningful relationships, and building emotional resilience. Students learned to embrace their imperfections and validate their feelings and those of others. The Intermediate Level training, conducted on the third and fourth days, focused on enhancing interpersonal relationships. It covered Basic Communication and Listening Skills, the value of Gratitude, and Mindfulness practices. Participants engaged in various mindfulness therapies to manage stress effectively. The training concluded with lessons on Basic Helping Skills and Mental Health First Aid, where students were taught empathy, respect, trustworthiness, and maintaining a non-judgmental perspective. They were equipped with tools like “Egan’s Skilled Helper Method” to help peers navigate personal challenges collaboratively. The program would not have been possible without the support of RC CDO, with PE Leony Quicoy serving as the project chairman. They coordinated with the school, provided transportation and accommodations for the facilitators, and managed the logistics for the entire 4-day seminar. The SuPEERheroes program, which the Club has supported since last year, has now equipped over 500 students and teachers in Makati, Pampanga, Cavite, and Cagayan de Oro City with the skills and knowledge to be SuPEERheroes—champions in addressing mental health challenges among their peers.

It has been widely emphasized that the first 1,000 days—from conception to a child’s second birthday—are the most critical period for a child’s development. During this time, the brain, body, and immune system experience rapid growth, making proper nutrition and care essential. Recognizing this, DG Prescy Yulo called upon Rotary Clubs to support initiatives that focus on this crucial stage. In response, RC Makati took action and reached out to RC Cagayan de Oro, its brother club, which identified a pressing issue in their community—the rising number of adolescent mothers. With over 1,400 pregnant teenagers in Cagayan de Oro, there is a growing need to provide these young mothers with proper healthcare, nutritional support, and education to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. On March 1, the RC Makati team, led by Pres. Keith & Rachel Harrison with PN Howie Calleja, PND Chris Ferareza, and CoS Ron, flew to Cagayan de Oro to officially launch the project. After a quick lunch, the team headed straight to the City Hall grounds to launch the project entitled First 1,000 Days: Empowering Adolescent Mothers. During the short program, Pres. Neil Que of RC Cagayan de Oro encouraged young people to stay strong, while Cagayan de Oro Mayor Rolando A. Uy, in a message read by City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario Raagas, expressed his support. “With the strong partnership between the city government and the Rotary Clubs of Cagayan de Oro and Makati, we are sure this program will continue. It will help young mothers and their children have a better and more secure future. Let’s work together to make sure no young mother is left behind and every child gets the care, education, and protection they deserve,” he said. Pres. Keith highlighted the vital role of the First 1,000 Days in shaping a child’s health and future. First Ann Rachel emphasized the importance of education and completing their studies for adolescent mothers, empowering them to build a better future. PN Howie reaffirmed the Club’s commitment to supporting the program, ensuring the successful completion of the First 1,000 Days. With a total funding of P300,000—P260,000 co-funded by RC Makati and the balance, along with coordination, covered by RC CDO, this project provides access to sexual and reproductive health services, prevents early and repeat pregnancies, and helps 50 young mothers reintegrate into school. It also offers financial assistance, promotes responsible parenthood, and delivers tailored interventions for their well-being. Through this initiative, we empower these young women to build healthier futures for themselves and their children. This project clearly addresses the First 1,000 Days of children, particularly in supporting young mothers in taking care of their children.

For children battling malnutrition, a single meal can mean the difference between weakness and strength, struggle, and opportunity. Understanding the profound impact of proper nutrition, RC Makati, in partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, brought hope and nourishment to the children of Dreamland Ville, Barangay Kaypian, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Through the culmination of its Complementary Nutrition Program and Last Angel Gift Giving Project, the club reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that no child is left behind in the fight against hunger. This meaningful initiative was led by PP Freddie Borromeo and Jojo Borromeo, staunch advocates of the club’s Supplemental and Complementary Feeding Program. They were joined by Pres. Keith Harrison and Rtn. George Haxton, whose presence underscored the club’s steadfast commitment to serving the most vulnerable. Also in attendance were President of Kabisig ng Kalahi, Ms. Vicki Wieneke, one of RC Makati’s strongest allies in the fight against malnutrition and Social Welfare Officer V, Conchita Arlegui, along with Ms. Marilou Prepaño of the Makati Social Welfare and Development Office. The program’s impact was evident as 30 children, aged 3 to 6, gathered with their families to celebrate the strides they had made in their nutritional journey. Identified as experiencing varying levels of malnutrition, these children had undergone a months-long feeding program designed to improve their overall health and well-being. The event served as a graduation of sorts, marking their progress and the collaborative efforts of partners and volunteers who made it all possible. Pres. Keith addressed the children and their parents with warmth and encouragement, expressing his joy in seeing the visible improvements in their health and energy. He attributed these positive changes to the dedication of the volunteers who had ensured that nutritious meals reached the children every week. Acknowledging the power of partnership, he emphasized that none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of individuals and organizations working together. He also introduced PP Freddie, whose two decades of relentless commitment to child nutrition have impacted the lives of children who are now in their twenties, proof of the program’s long-term success. PP Freddie reiterated RC Makati’s deep-rooted advocacy for child health and nutrition, emphasizing that true progress comes through strong partnerships with organizations such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Local Government Units (LGUs). While Rtn. George echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the future depends on ensuring today’s children grow up strong, healthy, and happy. He acknowledged that while meaningful change takes time, investing in children’s well-being is an investment in a brighter tomorrow. He concluded with gratitude and optimism, looking forward to future collaborations that will continue making a difference in young lives. Beyond nutrition, the children experienced the magic of The Last Angel Gift Giving Project, led by IPP Bing Matoto. As the children’s eyes lit up with excitement, each girl received a cuddly teddy bear, while the boys were delighted with their toys. Rtn. Taba Samson further spread joy by donating three dozen pairs of slippers, ensuring that each child had proper footwear. To enrich the learning environment of the community, the club also donated 500 books from its Books Across The Seas (BATS) Program, which will be placed in the village’s community library. And a warm, nourishing meal of sopas and a glass of milk was served, providing the children with the sustenance they needed while reinforcing the importance of proper nutrition. RC Makati’s Complementary Nutrition Program continues to be one of its most impactful community projects. This Rotary Year alone, 400 children have been enrolled, with 200 already completing the program. Since its revival in 2004, the initiative has helped over 6,000 children recover from malnutrition, paving the way for healthier communities. The day’s activities concluded with a fellowship lunch at Roadside Dampa, hosted by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo. It was a moment for rotarians and partners to reflect on the impact of their work, celebrate another successful initiative, and strengthen the bonds that fuel their shared mission of service and compassion.

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Expanding access to knowledge is key to nurturing future leaders, and RC Makati remains steadfast in its mission to empower young minds through education. In a continued effort to enrich learning opportunities, the club recently donated 1,000 books to Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School under the Books Across the Seas Program. Complementing this generous contribution was a special collection titled Greatness of Spirit from the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, offering students valuable insights into the lives of distinguished Asian leaders who have shaped history through service, integrity, and innovation. A formal turnover ceremony took place at the school on February 21, 2025, with key representatives from RC Makati, the Ramon Magsaysay Transformative Institute, and the school community in attendance. Leading the delegation were Pres. Keith Harrison and First Ann Rachel Harrison, accompanied by Amb. Melvin Castelino, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, Dir. Boy Arteche, Treas. Leo de Leon, and Michael Hsu and Paolo Turno. The Ramon Magsaysay Transformative Institute was represented by the Partnership Manager, Ms. Issay Nodalo, and the Program Officer, Ms. Dani Pesayco, and an alumna of the school. School officials, including Principal Mrs. Juliet Melo, Learning Resource Coordinator Ms. Shan Fabros, Interact Club Adviser Mrs. Arlene Okuma, and Interact Pres. Princess Joanna Figueroa, warmly welcomed the guests. The program was hosted by Mrs. Okuma and Interact Club member Dwayne Marcus Garcia, with Grade 10 students in attendance. In her welcome remarks, Principal Melo expressed deep gratitude to RC Makati for its continued support, emphasizing how the donated books will enhance students’ learning experiences. This was followed by a message from Pres. Keith, who underscored the Rotary’s Four-Way Test as a guiding principle for leadership and service. He noted that in “Greatness of Spirit” volumes being donated, readers will see that all of the Magsaysay Laureates followed these guiding rules of truth, fairness and integrity in their work and lives. He went on to explain that February is Rotary Peace and Conflict Resolution Month – Peace and Conflict Resolution being the founding principle behind the establish of Rotary as a service organization. He noted that if we all follow the 4-way test there can be no better way of bringing about peace and conflict resolution at a mirco-level such as conflicts between individuals in this room all the way through to the huge conflicts between nation states that we read and hear about in the news. Ms. Issay Nodalo delivered an inspiring talk, encouraging students to reflect on leadership, service, and the importance of learning from history. She highlighted the legacy of Ramon Magsaysay, the seventh President of the Philippines, whose values of honesty, integrity, and selfless service remain relevant today. She also introduced the Greatness of Spirit book series, which chronicles the lives of Ramon Magsaysay Awardees—scientists, engineers, doctors, human rights advocates, and artists—whose contributions have transformed communities. More than a collection of biographies, the series serves as a testament to the power of courage, integrity, and selfless dedication. Nodalo also urged students to use social media for learning and advocacy, maximizing its potential beyond entertainment. Following her talk, other guests shared messages of encouragement before Interact Pres. Princess Figueroa expressed her appreciation on behalf of the students. The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official turnover of the book donations. To celebrate the occasion, the school hosted an early lunch for the guests.

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A project that is impactful naturally gains momentum and spreads to new communities. Such is the case with RC Makati’s latest environmental protection initiative—a special screening of the acclaimed musical film A Thousand Forests. Following the successful screening for Girsltown students of the Sisters of Mary in Cavite, and Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School in Makati, the Club extended this initiative to the Boystown of the Sisters of Mary. The event aimed to instill environmental awareness among students through creative expression and an inspiring film screening. The day’s activities were aptly entitled “Gift of Love to Mother Earth” as the event happened a day after the Valentine’s Day and commenced with a mural painting guided by renowned environmental muralist A.G. Saño.. Saño introduced the theme of the mural, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship. Among those who joined in adding finishing touches were Pres. Keith Harrison, First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP Charlie Rufino, PP Eddie Yap, and PND Chris Ferareza. The painting session, which lasted nearly the entire day, provided students with an opportunity to express their artistic talents while reinforcing the message of sustainability. At midday, the school’s culinary class prepared a special lunch for the guests, featuring an array of thoughtfully prepared dishes, including veggie pizza, menudo, creamy spaghetti, veggie salad, and creamy soup. PP Tito and Brin Panlilio joined the team during lunchtime and stayed on to participate in the subsequent activities. We were also joined by Rtn. Daniel Beyeler from RC Singapore, our sister club. The formal program took place at the school’s gymnasium, beginning with a heartfelt doxology led by the Boystown Chorale, who performed There Can Be Miracles. Sr. Laresa Morasa, local superior and principal of Sisters of Mary School Boystown, delivered the welcome remarks. Sr. Laresa Morasa, local superior and principal of Sisters of Mary School Boystown, delivered the welcome remarks. Pres. Keith, during his message, shared his excitement to bring this program to Boystown. PP Eddie recalled that a few of them were able to watch the Classical Christmas Concert which he produced and organized by the Club in December to support the school, providing awareness and promotion of the school’s advocacy. PP Charlie—who also serves as president of Fr. Al’s Children Foundation—shared a little about what the Foundation is doing. Afterwards the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between RC Makati and Fr. Al’s Children Foundation was done, alongside the formal turnover of a PHP 350,000 donation. A portion of the funds was raised from the Classical Christmas Concert that was produced for RC Makati by PP Eddie last December 10 will contribute to an upgrade of video and sound system for the school auditorium, enhancing the institution’s educational resources. Following the signing, students of Boystown delighted the audience with a spirited dance performance to the tune of Dreamers. Additional messages of encouragement were shared by A.G. Saño, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho Jr., Dean Marlo Mendoza of UPLB-College of Forestry and Natural Resources, and Ms. Jenie Chan, Executive Director of ISyoot Multimedia, a partner in the film screening initiative. Before the screening of A Thousand Forests, the film’s artists performed Let’s Build a Forest, a song that energized the audience, with over 1,500 Boystown students and RC Makati members joining in the dance. The film, aimed at raising awareness of environmental conservation, was shown in two batches to accommodate all attendees. As the event ended, PP Charlie Rufino invited the guests to visit the construction site of the Digital Transformational Center at Sisters of Mary School Girlstown. He personally led the tour, sharing insights on the project’s progress and future impact. This initiative builds upon RC Makati’s previous environmental efforts, including the first screening of A Thousand Forests at Sisters of Mary Girlstown on October 12, which engaged 2,600 students in a tree-planting activity. Another screening was held on October 17 at the RC Makati Clubhouse, where the club sponsored 500 students from Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School. The program continues to expand, with upcoming screenings planned for the students of Laura Vicuña Foundation in Cubao.

It has truly been a rigorous but fulfilling journey. Preparing for our term as District Governor of Rotary International District 3830 has been quite exhaustive. We started training with the Pre District Governor Nominee Training Seminar in Club Filipino (November 2023), then the District Governor Nominee Seminar in the Kaoshiung Zone Institute (December 2023), then the Pre District Governor Elect Learning Seminar in AIM (November 2024), then the District Governor Elect Learning Seminar in the Taipei Zone Institute (December 2024) to finally end with the International Assembly at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida held last February 10 to 13, 2025. But it was all worth it. The International Assembly was especially significant in that it was here where I truly felt the internationality of Rotary. Even before the event we were already thrust into different smaller groups with our “cohorts”, which in my case meant being grouped with my classmates from North Carolina, California, India, Australia and Denmark. It was interesting swapping stories with a very disparate group of individuals whose experiences were significantly different from ours but were all born out the common desire to do good for our communities. Then the assembly proper placed us in the midst of 530 fellow district governors-elect, with our respective spouses and partners, all coming from over 200 countries and territories. It was during the first plenary session that our Rotary International President Elect Mario Cesar Martins de Camargo from Brazil unveiled the theme for our year of service, “Unite for Good”, a simple but concise message that fully encapsulates the twin goal of uniting and uniting for a purpose, i.e. to do good in the world. In his speech, RIPE Mario said that, “Rotary’s greatest asset is not our history, our projects, or even our unmatched global reach. It is our members.” He then added that the three pillars of growth to develop a vibrant and dedicated membership are Innovation, Continuity and Partnership. He emphasized the need to innovate and think beyond the tried and tested. He decried the fact that our membership has stagnated over the past several decades and that the challenge is to present rotary in a new light, to make rotary available to a larger audience, in the hope that more will embrace the life of Service Above Self. Then followed three and half days of plenary and breakout sessions touching on every possible aspect of Rotary Leadership, while sharing ideas with fellow leaders from all corners of the globe. To say that we learned a lot would be an understatement. Sharing from classmates from all over gave us a glimpse of how rotary is in their communities. We are truly lucky to be part of an organization where our diversity is celebrated and is a tool for impactful service. With me throughout is of course Sue Ann who attended the Partners assembly. She too had her own breakout sessions and events where she impressed her “classmates” with her knowledge and experiences. She has even received an invitation to speak to a club in England albeit through a zoom meeting. I will forever be grateful to her for her support and participation. Then of course, I could not have done this without my 9 other Philippine Governor classmates in Zone 10A. Not only did we uphold the reputation of Philippine rotary as a dynamic and enthusiastic group, we were even considered (unofficially) the best dressed bunch, what with our distinct green, yellow and grey suits and our elegant and stunning Filipiniana alampay. It is not an exaggeration to say that participants from everywhere stopped us and took pictures of us all throughout the assembly. Lastly, know that I am profusely thankful to my club, you guys for being there to support me in this journey every step of the way. Your encouragement has been invaluable through all this. Our year of service is coming up. Let us together make District 3830 the best it can be.