As the saying goes, “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” With this guiding principle, RC Makati hosted the first Pre-President Elect Training Seminar (Pre-PETS) on September 7, 2024, at the 3rd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center at the RC Makati Clubhouse in Guadalupe Viejo, Makati. Although we are still in the first quarter of the current Rotary year, the incoming presidents, or President-Elects (PEs), for Rotary Year 2025-26 have already begun their training to ensure that they are fully prepared for their leadership roles starting July 1, 2025. These PEs will share the leadership spotlight with DGE Reggie Nolido, who will be the incoming governor. A total of 56 President-Elects from 120 Rotary clubs in District 3830 gathered for an engaging afternoon and evening filled with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build camaraderie in preparation for the upcoming term. The program commenced with a prayer from PE Eddie Galvez. PP Carlo Rufino, the Pre-PETS 1 Chair, then addressed the group, saying how fortunate they are to have DGE Reggie as their governor, praising his competence and dedication to leading the district effectively. For the first activity, the PEs gave a two-minute introduction of themselves, which was video recorded. Each PE shared an object—either a tangible item or an illustration—that best represents their identity and how they wish others to perceive them. After this, the group was divided into six teams for a breakout session focused on reflective discussions. They explored questions such as: “Why am I in Rotary?” “What do I like about Rotary and my Rotary Club?” and “Imagine it’s June 30, 2026—the last day of your term as president of your club. What are you feeling?” Back in the main hall, each group presented their discussions in a lively manner, incorporating singing, dancing, and role-playing that entertained and delighted the audience. The event concluded with a heartfelt closing message from DGE Reggie, who expressed his gratitude for the PEs’ presence and active engagement in the activities. He posed a reflective question to the group about how they feel as future presidents. DGE Reggie shared a personal story from his college days, where he spent time with fishermen who had little but maintained a keen sense of community and support for one another. He emphasized that as presidents, their primary responsibility is to take care of their clubs and to nurture them to reach their fullest potential. He reminded them that while they may sometimes feel alone in their leadership journey, this feeling will be assuaged by the belief that there is a supportive community that will help them thrive and succeed. PP Louie Aseoche, the incoming District Secretary, along with Anns Sue Ann Nolido, the incoming First Lady of the District, and Cat Rufino, were there to show support to DGE Reggie and the PEs. RC Makati hosted the event by sponsoring meals and providing the venue for both the main program and the breakout sessions. The District Training team, led by Rotary Academy Director John Vinta and District Learning Facilitator PDG JoJi Tan, were there to make sure that the event would be a successful and enriching experience for all the attendees.

As part of District 3830’s ongoing efforts to inform and engage Rotarians about Rotary’s impactful programs, The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Workshop was held on September 7, 2024, at the A. Venue Hotel. This annual event is designed to deepen Rotarians’ understanding and appreciation of TRF’s global initiatives and how their support directly contributes to life-changing humanitarian projects. There to learn more about TRF were Pres. Keith Harrison, Asst. Secretary Paolo Turno, PDG Pepz Bengzon, DGE Reggie Nolido, and new members George Haxton, Aaron Mempin, and Roy Moss. The program kicked off with welcome remarks from PDG Al Montecillo, District Rotary Foundation Chair, followed by a message from DG Prescy Yulo. A very informational presentation by PDG Jun Farcon, Zone 10A Endowment/Major Gift Adviser, who shared his inspiring journey and emphasized how contributions to Rotary help drive life-changing humanitarian projects. PDG Marilou Co, Zone 10A End Polio Coordinator, provided updates on Rotary’s ongoing fight against polio, noting the Philippines’ significant contributions to the cause. DDRFC Mildred Vitangcol shared insights on district goals, while PDG Penny Policarpio discussed best practices for achieving annual goals and promoting the Every Year Every Rotarian (EREY) campaign. The workshop also featured a lively panel discussion moderated by DGE Reggie Nolido, with panelists PP Caloy Mateo, PP Nikki Gilladoga, and PP John Vinta sharing personal stories on why they support TRF and their innovative fundraising approaches. Gretchen Laurel, TRF Fund Specialist, gave a session on navigating Rotary Central for tracking club donations, and the event concluded with a pledging session facilitated by PP Sweetie Gardiner. RC Makati remains a leading supporter of TRF, with over $2 million in total contributions—the highest in the district and among the top in the country. This year, 33 members have already pledged as Paul Harris Fellows (PHF), continuing the club’s strong tradition of supporting Rotary’s mission.

As part of Rotary’s commitment to protecting the environment—one of the Seven Areas of Focus—RC Makati participated in the Climate Change Summit titled “Bagong Teknolohiya sa Nagbabagong Klima Para sa Bagong Pilipinas” on September 18 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. Representing RC Makati were PDG Pepz Bengzon, Roger Collantes, First Ann Rachel Harrison, CoS Ron Dotaro, and our Rotaractors. The program commenced at 1PM and featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Dr. Dexter Buted from the Philippine Coconut Authority and ASec. Virgilio Lazaga of the Cooperative Development Authority. A notable moment was when Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin was honored with the rank of Apo Musang Sultan by Climate Change Commission Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz. Organized by the Climate Change Commission, the summit highlighted a technology expo showcasing the latest gadgets and tech solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation, featuring leading tech companies from across the country. CP Mache Ackeman from RC Makati Business District and also an ambassador of the Climate Change Commission, led the Pledge of Commitment for Net Zero by 2050, with her daughter, Emilia, proudly participating in the pledge. RC Makati remains committed to environmental sustainability and looks forward to implementing the insights gained from this summit in our future projects and initiatives. Together, we can work towards a greener and more sustainable future for all.

As the pioneering Rotary Club in Makati, RC Makati stands as the “mother” Club, with all Rotary clubs in the district tracing their roots back to us. For nearly 60 years, RC Makati has played a key role in expanding Rotary’s membership through the creation of daughter clubs, thus strengthening Rotary’s mission and service reach. On September 18, 2024, RC Makati, in collaboration with RC Makati Premier District, proudly co-chartered its 13th daughter club, RC AIM. The charter presentation took place at the Communication Foundation for Asia in Sampaloc, Manila, marking another significant step in fostering Rotary’s future leadership. There to witness the momentous occasion were Pres. Keith Harrison and PP JunJun Dayrit along with Pres. Eric Quiason and PP Raissa Hechanova-Posadas of RC Makati Premier District and DG Prescy Yulo and IPDG Jay Tambunting. RC AIM is composed of a dynamic group of young professionals, all alumni of the prestigious Asian Institute of Management (AIM) with Charter President Jake Que. This connection was initiated by PP JunJun Dayrit, alumni president of AIM, who personally endorsed the club’s formation, recognizing the potential and dedication of its members. RC AIM officially received its charter on June 12, 2024, an achievement that stands as one of the membership milestones during the term of IPP Bing Matoto. The establishment of RC AIM promises to bring new energy, leadership, and commitment to Rotary’s cause, further expanding Rotary’s influence through innovative service projects and community leadership.

On September 7, 2024, PP Freddie Borromeo, IPP Bing Matoto, and CB Rivilla embarked on a mission of compassion to support families affected by recent challenges in Tanay, Rizal. Their efforts focused on providing essential relief to displaced families temporarily sheltered in local schools. The first stop of the day was at Ilaya Elementary School, where 44 families were staying. With warm smiles and a sense of duty, PP Freddie, IPP Bing, and CB distributed mats and blankets to these families, ensuring they had some comfort during their stay. The team took time to speak with the residents, offering not just material aid but emotional support as well. Following this, the group moved to their second destination: Sunrise Development School of Tanay. Here, they distributed food packs to 100 families who had sought temporary refuge at the school. The food packs, designed to provide sustenance for the families in the short term, were received with gratitude by the beneficiaries. They spent time with the families, reinforcing the community’s resilience in the face of adversity. After the successful relief distribution, PP Freddie hosted a well-deserved lunch at Rambulls in Tanay. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the day’s activities, celebrate the spirit of service, and reinforce the bonds of fellowship and compassion.

From August 29 to September 2, 2024, Pres. Keith and First-Ann Rachel Harrison embarked on a meaningful journey to Indonesia as part of the Help the Children 2024 project, an initiative focused on improving the lives of underprivileged children in Malang and Batu. Their trip, filled with impactful activities, brought together a global community of rotary clubs and individuals dedicated to service. The journey began on Thursday, August 29, with Pres. Keith and First-Ann Rachel travelled to Singapore before heading to Indonesia. On Friday, August 30, they arrived in Surabaya and joined a convoy of 10 vehicles, escorted by local police, for the drive to Malang. Along the way, the group exchanged banners and stopped for lunch, enjoying the camaraderie of fellow rotarians and local hosts. The first stop in Batu was at four of the ten partner schools in the region. The group, greeted by a vibrant street procession in the picturesque countryside surrounded by rice fields and mountains, delivered essential supplies, including school clothing and equipment. After the formal handovers and entertainment by the local community, the day concluded with an official reception at Batu’s City Hall, where local dignitaries warmly welcomed the visiting Rotarians. The following morning, the group visited the Bhakti Luhur orphanage, home to over 500 children with disabilities, cared for by Roman Catholic nuns. Another 1,500 children are supported in other centers outside Malang. The group was treated to heartwarming performances by the physically and mentally challenged residents. Following the entertainment, the visitors toured the campus, which also serves as a home to 500 carers, teachers, and spiritual guides. They explored classrooms, therapy rooms, and vocational training areas where children are taught skills such as batik cloth making—an activity that especially caught the interest of First Ann Rachel. They also visited the Global Grant project (GG2454428), which focuses on intensive training for 45 speech and occupational therapists. This initiative, designed to upskill the therapists working with the children, will benefit not only the Malang center but also 70 smaller locations across the country. Pres. Keith, First Ann Rachel, and representatives from RC Malang Central, RC Kuching Central, RC Singapore, RC Rizal West, and partners from Taiwan engaged in productive discussions with the nuns, ensuring the project’s success. In the afternoon, the group visited more partner schools in the Malang area, where the Help the Children project reached 1,500 children, provided teacher training, and supported vocational skills training for parents. The commitment to education and support for families in these communities was evident through these efforts. Later that day, the group had the opportunity to visit the site of a hospital under construction by the Isk Tolaram Foundation, spearheaded by Mohan Vaswani’s family group. This three-story structure will house clinics for eye surgery, dialysis, special needs therapy, and diagnostics. The discussions around the future of this hospital emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in the region. The evening was a grand celebration, hosted by Rtn Mohan Vaswani and his wife Kawita at their beautiful home in Batu. The gathering was filled with speeches from participants, marking the culmination of an inspiring weekend of service and collaboration. On Sunday, after a farewell brunch hosted by the Vaswanis, attendees made their way to the airport. Some traveled to Malaysia, Bali, or Singapore, while Pres. Keith and First-Ann Rachel connected through Singapore overnight, arriving home at 6:30 am on Monday morning. Despite their exhaustion, they returned with a deep sense of fulfillment, having been part of a project that brought real change and hope to the children and communities of Indonesia.

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August was like a breeze, but it was an impactful month for the Rotary Club of Makati. Allow me to recap what happened. On August 3rd, President Keith Harrison and Chief of Staff Ron visited the Upskills Plus site in Tondo. Jane Walker, the founder, gave them a tour of the facility, which is making a significant impact on the lives of the slum community in Tondo. They also visited families with special children to explore potential interventions the Club could contribute to. Later that afternoon, the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center at the RCM Clubhouse hosted the launch of Hatch+. This 10-day face-to-face session, in collaboration with StartUp Village, is guiding young entrepreneurs on a transformative journey, enhancing proposals in critical sectors using design thinking principles. On August 6th, Pres Keith Harrison, PP JunJun Dayrit and IPP Bing Matoto turned over eight (8) laptops to Ahon Siargao for the Child Development Workers in Burgos, Siargao. On August 7th, RC Makati hosted a Community Day in Payatas, featuring international Rugby superstar Marcus Smith, in partnership with the Fairplay for All Foundation. The event brought together over 30 children, aged 13 and under, for Rugby and Futsal clinics. These clinics showcased the transformative power of sports in inspiring and uplifting young lives. Each child received a Rugby shirt courtesy of RC Makati, and shorts provided by Marcus Smith. The community also received Rugby balls and tees, generously donated by the Makati Mavericks. On August 10th, President Keith and Rachel flew to Isabela for a series of events. The day began with the inauguration and blessing of RC Cauayan in the morning, followed by participation in the Feed Back vegetable exchange program in the afternoon, and concluded with attendance at the 42nd Induction of RC Cauayan in the evening. On August 12th, RC Makati traveled to Bocaue, Bulacan, to visit the Brothers of Mercy at the Hospicio de San Juan de Dios. This facility is home to nearly 100 mentally ill male adults and serves as a haven for those often marginalized by society. The visit was arranged by Ann Cecille Dayrit, who has been committed to supporting this hospice for nearly two decades. It was another flying trip for Pres. Keith and Rachel on the 16th and 17th, this time joined by Dir. Derrick Tan for the RC Kuala Lumpur Diraja’s Installation at Resorts World Awana in Genting Highlands. The trip included a welcome dinner, where they connected with other foreign clubs and renewed ties with RCKL Diraja during the formal affair." On the 18th, Dir. Andy and Dir. Boy were at the Philippine General Hospital for a surgical mission sponsored by RC Makati, where ten women diagnosed with breast cancer underwent life-saving mastectomy procedures. This mission marks RC Makati's return to conducting surgical missions at PGH after a hiatus. Since 1988, RC Makati has partnered with PGH to provide charity surgeries for conditions like hernias, thyroid disorders, and gallstones. On the 19th, RC Makati hosted the End Polio Commemoration at the RC Makati Clubhouse, the site of the first Rotary polio drop 45 years ago. With RI President-Elect Mario Cesar Martins de Camargo as part of his 5-day visit to the Philippines, the event began with a vitamin drop for the children of Barangay Guadalupe Viejo. The formal program continued on the 3rd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center, featuring a video presentation of the historic polio vaccine drop from 45 years ago. On the 23rd, the RC Makati team was back on the road, this time in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, for the launch of a supplemental feeding program for 30 kids in the relocation site for Makati’s informal settlers. During the event, the kids were provided with meals and milk, which will be served to them every day for six months. And on the 30th, another feeding program was launched, this time for 30 kids in Brgy. Bagong Ilog, Pasig. The day ended with the much-anticipated Friday Night Lights event, bringing the month to a fun and fulfilling close." Capping off the month, President Keith and First Ann Rachel traveled to Indonesia for the Help the Children 2024 project. In partnership with 11 clubs, including our sister club and lead partner, RC Singapore, the project, valued at USD 186,000, provided school supplies to 1,500 children in Malang and Batu for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. During our visit, we also had the opportunity to meet with the local partner and two other contributor partners of our approved Global Grant project, where we serve as the International Partner. This project focuses on enhanced training for speech and occupational therapists, as well as providing related equipment for Bhaki Luhur Orphanage—an institution caring for approximately 4,500 children with physical and mental disabilities. . August was not just impactful but also a fun month for RC Makati. We continue to make a difference, one project at a time.

On August 24, 2024, the Rotaract Club of Makati conducted a notable event to celebrate the induction of new members and the transition of leadership, highlighting a year of dedicated service and new beginnings with the theme “19 Years of Harnessing Inspiring Radian Acts”. The evening’s formal proceedings began with a processional led by the Council of Presidents. Top Outstanding President Emmanuel Adrian C. Manuel called the meeting to order, setting the stage for a series of ceremonial activities. The attendees recited the Four-Way Test, guided by Rtr. Joseph Carlo A. Tan. The event continued with the acknowledgment of dignitaries and guests by PP April Jan H. Sembrano. PE Jover R. Acebuche extended a warm welcome to attendees before the group enjoyed dinner, providing an opportunity for members and guests to engage in conversation and camaraderie. The program resumed with the introduction of the Guest of Honor by PP Prame Rose E. Cato, followed by an inspirational message from Pres. Keith A.D. Harrison. He shared a video featuring Dennis Ogbe, a polio survivor, he shares his inspiring journey from overcoming the challenges of polio to becoming a successful athlete and advocate. Despite being paralyzed from the waist down due to the disease, Ogbe has not only excelled in para-athletics, including winning medals in various international competitions, but he has also dedicated his life to raising awareness about polio and supporting efforts to eradicate the disease. His story highlights resilience, determination, and the power of using one’s experiences to drive positive change and inspire others. New members, including Reggie P. Bontia, Juan C. Arteche, Vrochen Fernand C. Padilla, Michelle C. Cabacungan, Anthony Basang, and James Calvin L. Piñero, were formally inducted into the club. They pledged to uphold rotaract principles with their right hands raised, committing to contribute actively to community service, professional development, and fellowship. DRR John Alfred L. Garcia facilitated the charging, while Dir. Filomeno Arteche III as the Inducting Officer for the new members. The program also featured the presentation of incoming officers by PP John Nicole R. Dela Cruz, with PDRR Myreza Catherine S. Gonzales conducting their charging, and DGE Reginald Alberto B. Nolido leading the induction of incoming officers. In outgoing TOP Emmanuel Adrian C. Manuel valedictory speech, he reflected on the past year’s achievements and expressing gratitude for RC Makati’s support, partner clubs, and dedicated members and volunteers. Incoming Precious Notable President Hira Angelica Y. Hermoso in her inaugural speech she reflected on her journey from receiving an unexpected phone call in 2021 that led to her role as Deputy Community Service Director, and now, her presidency. She recounted how a simple affirmative response to an unforeseen opportunity set the course for her leadership, marking her growth through lessons in humility and service. As her presidency marked 55th day in service of the Magic in Rotary, she acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead while committing to resilience and teamwork and vowing to build upon the high standards set by her predecessor, TOP Adrian.

RC Makati proudly launched its innovative Hatch+ program on August 3, 2024, marking a significant expansion of its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and community development. Building on the successes of initiatives such as the Hack4Food Challenge, which sought tech-driven solutions for agriculture, and the nationwide Hatch competition, the Hatch+ program aims to provide entrepreneurs and community developers with critical tools and opportunities. The inaugural session, titled “Entrepreneurial Mindset + Opportunity Seeking” was led by Rtn. Jay Bernardo, who shared insights from his professional journey. His session focused on nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset, emphasizing self-awareness, authenticity, and effective delegation, while also exploring the impact of crises and the balance between immediate opportunities and long-term goals. The launch was attended led by Hatch Program Committee Chair Bom Villatuya, alongside PP JunJun Dayrit, Dir. Boy Arteche, and Rtns. Julian Lim, Paolo and Christine Turno, Aaron and Daianne Mempin. The Hatch+ program continued its impactful sessions with Mr. Carlo Calimon from Startup Village on August 10, who led a workshop titled “Value Creation + Game.” This session was designed to enhance personal growth and business acumen through a theme-based business game, which emphasized financial planning, market trend analysis, and customer-centric strategies. His interactive approach highlighted the importance of adapting solutions based on customer feedback and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset. The event was attended by DGE Reggie Nolido, along with rotarians including Dir. Boy Arteche and Michael Hsu, who contributed to the session’s success. The program’s subsequent sessions included a focus on design thinking, facilitated by Mr. Resty Collado, a physics educator at Miriam College, who specializes in developing innovative educational projects and mentoring startups on August 17 and August 31 sessions. The first session, “Design Thinking 1: Empathy Stage” introduced participants to the five-stage design thinking process, emphasizing user-centered problem-solving through strategies like interviewing and understanding diverse customer experiences. The follow-up session expanded on these concepts, encouraging creativity and innovative thinking in problem definition and brainstorming. Both sessions were well-attended by rotarians including Dir. Boy and Ann Christine Turno. The Hatch+ program, a comprehensive 10-session series, continues through November, aiming to empower participants in sectors such as education, health, and social ventures using advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and Blockchain, with all sessions hosted at the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center.

On August 23 and August 30, 2024, the club, in partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, unveiled two impactful feeding programs aimed at combating child malnutrition. This collaboration, which has been ongoing for over twenty years, underscores the club’s steadfast commitment to enhancing community health and well-being. The new initiatives were launched at separate locations, each targeting 30 malnourished children. The programs feature a Supplementary Program providing nutritious meals daily for 120 days and a Complementary Program offering a daily glass of milk over the same period. The efforts are focused on delivering essential nutritional support and empowering local families with skills for healthier living. The first program was inaugurated in Brgy. Kaypian, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, from the beneficiaries of Makati Dreamland Ville community. The event, held despite a holiday disruption, saw the participation of Pres. Keith Harrison, PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo, Dir. Boy Arteche, Rtns. Paolo Turno, CB Rivilla, Patrick and Mitzi Parungao, and Ms. Vicky Wieneke from Kabisig ng Kalahi. The ceremony included an overview of the program, speeches from key figures, and the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Rotary Club of Makati and Kabisig ng Kalahi. Following the formalities, the children received their first servings of nutritious meals and milk, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. The second program took place in Brgy. Bagong Ilog, Pasig City, and was attended by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo, PP Junjun Dayrit, PE Eddie Galvez, Dir. Boy Arteche, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, and Rtns. including Chito Cantada, Johnny Sy, Michael Hsu, Aiai Galvez, CB Rivilla and Anton Cabrera. The Rotary Club of Pasig, led by Pres. Bernard Dy, also supported the event. Similar to the first, the session featured project presentations, local government addresses, and the signing of the MoA. The feeding program will provide one hot meal and a glass of milk daily for 120 days to 30 children aged 3-10. The program not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also equips mothers with valuable skills in meal planning and health, ensuring long-term benefits for their families. Since 2004, the RC Makati has positively impacted over 5,000 undernourished children through its partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, reinforcing its dedication to community health and empowerment. In addition to the program activities, PP Freddie and Jojo hosted lunches at Roadside Dampa in Bulacan and Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig for all the attendees, fostering camaraderie and shared commitment to the cause.

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