August 14, 2023 -- On a typical Monday morning, the Rotary Club of Makati springs into action, embracing the new week with a spirit of service and collaboration. A dedicated delegation, led by President Bing Matoto, his daughter Anne, PE/Dir Keith Harrison, and Community Director Rodrigo Segura, embarks on a nearly four-hour journey to Cabanatuan, ready for yet another impactful service project. Upon their arrival at the San Antonio de Padua church, warm greetings await them from Fr. Noy Oliveros, their project partner. Representing RC Cabanatuan North are President Martin Esteban and PDG Dindo Berino, who stand alongside, ready to lend their support. A mass, led by Fr. Noy, brings the community together. Following the service, a short program ensues, graced by President Bing's uplifting message, echoing the club's commitment to making a difference. With enthusiasm, the Rotary Club distributes school bags and essential supplies to 20 children of Brgy. Imelda. Their "Tulong Dunong" project aims to equip 460 public school students from 23 barangays in Cabanatuan, ensuring they start their classes in late August with confidence. The journey continues as the team arrives at Imelda Integrated School, joining forces for "Brigada Eskwela." The Rotary Club contributes to education through their "Books Across the Seas" project, donating 500 books that enrich young minds. The school expresses gratitude, presenting a certificate of appreciation. In the heart of Cabanatuan, Rotary Club of Makati's unwavering dedication shines through, a beacon of hope and service that continues to touch lives and foster lasting partnerships.

In the aftermath of the devastating Typhoons Egay and Falcon, a glimmer of hope emerged for the affected families in northern Luzon. Stepping up to the challenge, the Rotary Club of Makati, represented by Chief of Staff Ron Dotaro, embarked on a mission to provide much-needed relief and support to those who had lost everything. On the morning of August 4th, the Rotary Club of Makati's relief efforts began in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. Collaborating closely with the Rotary Club of Narvacan, led by President Caloy Valera and Past President Arnel Cabatu, the team faced challenging circumstances, including the need to cross a river due to a collapsed bridge. The relief mission focused on Brgy. Nanguneg West, where essential items like mats and blankets were distributed to over 250 families. The Rotary Club of Narvacan went even further, contributing food packs to ensure that basic needs were met during this trying time. On the next day, August 5, undeterred by challenges, the Rotary Club of Makati continued their relief efforts, this time in Dagupan. Collaborating with the Rotary Club of Dagupan led by President Richie Lirio, the team visited Brgy. Hererra and the East Central School evacuation area, providing assistance to numerous families. Once again, mats and blankets were distributed, while partner club, the Rotary Club of Dagupan, supplied rice and canned goods. The Unilab Foundation also lent support, distributing anti-fungal ointment to the beneficiaries. The relief mission's final destination was San Matias, Pampanga, where the Rotary Club of Makati joined forces with the Rotary Club of Makati Global. Working together with CP Cath Ronquillo and representatives from P&A Grant Thornton, the team provided relief to over 400 families. Mats, blankets, and food packs brought a sense of comfort to those who had lost so much. Expanding their outreach beyond these areas, the Rotary Club of Makati continued to support other communities in need. Donating sets of mats and blankets to the Rotary Club of Vigan and food packs to the Rotary Club of Tuguegarao, their impact spread far and wide. The relief missions conducted by the Rotary Club of Makati stand as a testament to the power of compassion and collective action. In times of crisis, dedicated individuals and organizations can make a difference. As communities rebuild and recover, the Rotary Club of Makati's unwavering commitment reminds us that together, we can overcome even the darkest of days.

In the wake of Typhoon Odette's devastating impact on Siargao in 2021, hope emerged as the Rotary Homes D-3830 Development Foundation stepped forward to offer a helping hand. On July 30, the Rotary Club of Makati joined the Rotary Homes Foundation for a significant mission, traveling to Siargao to ink a vital agreement with the local government unit (LGU) and bring the Rotary Homes project to the town. Departing from a rainy Manila, RC Makati, led by President Bing Matoto, who coincidentally celebrated his birthday that day, was joined by DGND Reggie Nolido, PE Keith & Rachel Harrison, with members from the Rotary Homes Foundation led by Pres. John Vinta, VP Theda Collantes, and PP Emily Alvarez, the main proponent in bringing the project to Siargao, and other dedicated members. Upon arriving at Sayak Airport, the weather welcomed them with sunshine, setting the tone for a hopeful journey ahead. In the evening, the team was warmly hosted for dinner by Mayor Sol Matugas at her residence in General Luna. The camaraderie was evident as Rtn. Ramon Garcia pledged his support, promising a donation of Starlink and e-Services for government service. The night concluded with singing and dancing, and of course, a heartfelt birthday celebration for President Bing. On July 31, the team traveled to Brgy. Corazon, the designated site for the Rotary Homes project. They were greeted by enthusiastic children waving their flags with joy, reflecting the community's excitement. A short program followed, with inspiring messages from Mayor Sol and RH President John Vinta, highlighting the significance of this partnership. During this program, the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was officially signed between the Rotary Homes Foundation and the General Luna LGU, marking the commencement of the project to construct 50 new homes. Another MoA was signed between the RC Makati and the Rotary Homes Foundation, representing the club's generous donation of P1M towards the project. When asked for a message, President Bing expressed his deep emotional connection to the project's beneficiaries and committed to bringing even more impactful projects to their community. The program concluded with the distribution of certificates to the 50 new homeowners in their community, offering them the promise of a better future. The following day, August 1, the team visited the Municipal gymnasium for the Adlaw nan Heneral Luna celebration, during which the Rotary Homes site was unveiled with a message from President John Vinta. The Rotary Homes project stands as Rotary's compassionate response to natural disasters, with successful constructions completed or ongoing in other locations, such as Paranaque and Muntinlupa. Its social impact has even inspired similar projects in other districts, including Batangas. The Rotary Homes Foundation's unwavering dedication to extending the program's reach demonstrates their commitment to creating lasting positive change in the lives of those affected by unfortunate circumstances. Together, these selfless organizations, dedicated to “Service Above Self,” forge a path of hope, building not just homes but also brighter futures for the resilient people of Siargao.

In the heart of Porac, Pampanga, the Rotary Club of Makati in partnership with RC Makati Business District embarked on a special journey last July 11. Led by PE Keith and Rachel Harrison, along with their new member, Paolo Turno, they traveled over three hours to reach the Usbong Katutubo Rotary Cultural Village. As the team arrived at the Usbong Katutubo Rotary Cultural Village, they were met with an incredible sight. Children from the indigenous tribe eagerly awaited the start of the day's program. It was a heartwarming scene, filled with anticipation and excitement. Without wasting a moment, the festivities began. With a short program emceed by PP Rachel and a short message from CP Mache Ackerman, then PE Keith took the stage, holding a stack of books that would soon be turned over to the community library. The children cheered with delight, knowing that these books would soon be within their reach. But the surprises didn't end there. With the help of Taba Samson, the RC Makati had a wonderful gift for every child in attendance. Slippers were distributed, ensuring that their little feet would stay protected and comfortable. With the book presentation and slipper distribution complete, it was time for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly built community library. The facility, a forty-footer container modified to fit the requirements, stood proudly as a symbol of hope and progress. With the ribbon officially cut, the doors to the library swung open, welcoming the children and the community to a world of knowledge and imagination. The dedication and hard work of the RC Makati, RCM Business District and all the other clubs in D3830, the Usbong Katutubo Rotary Cultural Village, and its founders, have truly transformed lives and brought smiles to the faces of the children in Porac, Pampanga. As the day came to a close, the children laughed and played, cherishing the memories made. The Children's Day celebration was a testament to the power of community, compassion, and Rotary's unwavering commitment to serving others.