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.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p06qDRO1JKzDFqLGCxNjUkChhqtNnk4T/view?usp=sharing

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.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1E2_U8LP7M-vtFS1ih3NSrzBxVoFCYp-F/view?usp=sharing

For 59 years, RC Makati has built a long-standing history of service and impact. Among its most significant milestones is an event that holds a special place in Rotary International’s legacy: the very first drop of the Polio vaccine, administered at our Clubhouse in Guadalupe Viejo. On September 29, 1979, then Rotary International President James Bomar delivered the historic drop, a moment that was broadcast worldwide, igniting the global movement to eradicate polio. In honor of this pivotal moment, on August 19, RC Makati hosted a Polio Commemoration event at the Clubhouse. The gathering marked 45 years of Rotary’s enduring fight to end polio and was attended by RI President-Elect Mario Cesar Martins de Camargo during his 5-day visit to the Philippines. The event began with a vitamin drop for the children of Barangay Guadalupe Viejo, led by RIPE Mario and Pres. Keith Harrison, in the Clubhouse parking lot. Due to the successful implementation of the End Polio campaign, all children in the community had already been immunized, so instead, vitamin A supplements were given. The formal program then continued on the 3rd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center at the Clubhouse, moderated by PE Eddie Galvez. DGE Reggie Nolido delivered the welcome and opening remarks, which was followed by a moving video presentation with a narration by Ann Cey Ponferrada. The video presentation included video footages of the historic events of 45 years ago as presented by the late PRID Paing Hechanova as well as excerpts of the speech of PRIP Mat Caparas, who was then Rotary International Director, during the very first drop of the Polio vaccine 45 years ago. PDG Marilou Co, End Polio Zone Coordinator, provided an update on current End Polio initiatives and presented Polio bears as giveaways to the dignitaries. The End Polio Commemoration event was chaired by Sec. Regi Ponferrada, with support from Pres. Keith, DGE Reggie, PE Eddie, and Paolo Turno. Many members actively participated, including PDG Tony Quila, IPP Bing Matoto, PP Fred Parungao, VP/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, CB Rivilla, and Anns Rachel Harrison and Sue Ann Nolido. In his keynote address, RIPE Mario reflected on the origins of the fight against polio, sharing how, in early 1979, then RI President Clem Renouf was inspired by the elimination of smallpox and envisioned the use of the 3H Grants (Health, Hunger & Humanity Grants) to eradicate another disease. From that vision, the first immunization project in the Philippines was born. Mario emphasized that today’s battle is not just against the polio virus but against mindsets, politics, and misinformation, which continue to pose significant challenges. Other Rotary dignitaries from the Philippines present were PRID Guiller Tumangan, PRID Raffy Garcia, PDG Ernie Choa, PDG Penny Policarpio, PDG Oliver Ong, PDG Johnny Gaw, PDG Gina Sy, and the DGEs from the 10 districts. The event was held in coordination with officials of Brgy. Guadalupe Viejo through Chairman Heinz Angeles and Kagawad Shirley Borja.

Despite the sudden holiday change on August 23, the Rotary Club of Makati team made the journey to San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, determined to make an impact. Their mission? To launch the Supplemental Feeding Program for 30 undernourished children in Dreamland Ville, Barangay Kapypian, a community of informal settlers relocated from Makati. Leading the charge was President Keith Harrison, along with Past President Freddie Borromeo and Jojo Borromeo, Patrick and Mitzi Parungao, Boy Arteche, CB Rivilla, and Paolo Turno. Their arrival marked the beginning of a brighter future for these children. As soon as they arrived, the program kicked off with Ms. Vicky Wieneke from Kabisig ng Kalahi, sharing an overview of the initiative. She emphasized the program's importance and highlighted the support provided by Rotary Club of Makati. President Keith followed with an important message on the value of nutrition for the children’s growth and future, reminding everyone that good health begins with the food we eat." Past President Freddie Borromeo shared that the program goes beyond providing meals—it also includes teaching parents and children the principles of right conduct, ensuring holistic development for these young minds." With heartfelt messages shared, the team proceeded to sign a Memorandum of Agreement, solidifying the partnership between RC Makati, Kabisig ng Kalahi, and the Makati DSWD." Following the signing, the children were served their nutritious meal for the day—munggo and a glass of milk. It was a heartwarming moment as smiles lit up their faces. This initiative will provide one hot meal a day to 30 undernourished children, aged 3-6, for 120 days. The menu follows a 28-day cycle developed by Kabisig ng Kalahi, ensuring variety and balance. The program also empowers parents with the skills to prepare affordable and healthy meals, fostering long-term sustainability for the community. Through dedication and compassion, the Rotary Club of Makati is creating magic on the lives of these children, one nutritious meal at a time.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bqsw738AqY6qLYROeGCqZfyk7Rqg2eb-/view?usp=sharing

RC Makati and Fairplay For All Foundation Organize Community Day for Marcus Smith