D3830 PELS in Palawan: Learning in Paradise

The heat is on—and what better place to be than Palawan? Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, from pristine beaches to crystal-clear waters, Palawan isn’t just a destination for relaxation—it became a hub for leadership and learning as District 3830 gathered for the Presidents-Elect Learning Seminar (PELS).

Under the incoming term of Governor Reggie Nolido, the district took a refreshing approach by bringing this year’s PELS to the island paradise for three days of fun, bonding, and intensive training. Designed as a mandatory seminar for all incoming club presidents, PELS prepares Rotary leaders for the responsibilities and opportunities of the coming Rotary year. But this time, it came with a tropical twist. Joining the delegation were incoming District Secretary Louie Aseoche, who was part of the organizing committee, and incoming President Eddie Galvez, who took part in the training.

Almost the entire District 3830 delegation arrived in Puerto Princesa on March 20, warmly welcomed at the airport by local Palawan Rotarians. From there, the district officers were hosted to a hearty lunch at Ka Inato, a local favorite and a restaurant owned by PP Eric Yayen, before checking in at Astoria Hotel—the official venue for the seminar.

The next day, March 21, the program kicked off early. Participants were shuttled to Takip Silim, a private resort owned by PP Bobby Castro, who graciously hosted the day’s teambuilding activities which was facilitated by CP Liza Mapagu. Against a backdrop of natural beauty, the incoming presidents engaged in physical challenges that tested not only their strength and endurance but also emphasized the core value of teamwork. The teambuilding culminated in a fellowship lunch before the group returned to the hotel, energized and more connected than ever.

From beachwear to business attire, the incoming presidents transformed themselves in no time for the official photo op held late that afternoon, just before the opening plenary session. The session, emceed by incoming DS Louie, began with a vibrant processional as each incoming club president was introduced and featured on the big screen, receiving cheers and applause from their fellow Rotarians and district officers.

The opening plenary was short but meaningful. PELS Chairman PP Jimmy del Rosario welcomed the delegates with brief but inspiring remarks, followed by an AVP message from RI President-Elect Mario de Camargo. The evening’s highlight was the keynote address of incoming DG Reggie, introduced in a light-hearted and creative way by his wife and incoming first lady, Sue Ann Nolido.

DG Reggie used his address to present the different district committees that will support the clubs in the year ahead. He shared current statistics on membership, TRF contributions, and global grants, along with actionable tips to help clubs reach their goals across key focus areas: membership growth, public image, avenues of service, and support for The Rotary Foundation. He concluded with a stirring call to action—challenging each club to “level up” and become better every year.

Day 1 ended on a high note with a lively singing fellowship, featuring a fun and spirited videoke competition that brought out the musical talents—and competitive spirit—of the attendees.

The second day, March 22, was dedicated to a full schedule of learning and inspiration. The sessions began with an overview of the PELS program delivered by PP John Vinta, incoming Executive Director of the Rotary Academy. This was followed by a reflective and interactive mini-workshop titled “Why Are You in Rotary?” led by Cathy Gonzales, RC Makati’s former Rotaractor and past chair of the Multi-District Information Organization.

A major highlight of the morning was a dynamic talk by PDG Oyan Villanueva, Zone 10A Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator, who presented the Rotary Action Plan with trademark energy and passion. He was followed by RI Fund Development Specialist Gretchen Laurel who presented The Rotary Foundation: Doing Good in the World, using an engaging online app to gather real-time input from participants, making the session both interactive and impactful. The second plenary concluded with a thought-provoking session on Effective Strategic Planning, delivered by incoming District Learning Facilitator, PDG Joji Tan, who provided practical frameworks for long-term success at the club level.

The afternoon continued with breakout sessions, giving incoming presidents the opportunity to choose two out of three enriching topics. Rolling Out an Effective Public Image Campaign was facilitated by CP Mache Ackerman, the incoming Deputy Public Image Chair; The Impact of Our Service was led by PP Doris Ensomo, Incoming Chair for Service Projects; and Servant Leadership was delivered by Mennen Gonzales.

After the breakouts, everyone returned to the main hall for the concluding session of the day—“If I Were a President Again”—presented by incoming District Admin Theda Collantes and incoming Executive Assistant Governor Buddy Madrigal. Their candid and heartfelt reflections offered a blend of wisdom, humor, and hard-earned lessons, rounding off the day’s program with both inspiration and practical advice.

The closing remarks from incoming DG Reggie were short and inspiring: “I’ll swim now, please join me, and let’s have fun tonight!” And so they did—off they went to the Sunset Cocktails by the Beach. Everyone arrived in their flowery outfits, drinks in hand, and smiles all around, enjoying the sea breeze and the company of fellow leaders. What was meant to be a group presentation turned into a heartwarming moment of unity as everyone came together for a collective rendition of “We Are the World”, singing in unison and capturing the very spirit of Rotary: one voice, one heart, and one vision for service.

The last day, a Sunday, began on a reverent note with a mass celebrated by Fr. Remo The program was intentionally light, beginning with brief announcements from RAED John, followed by a presentation on district awards by PP Sugus Legazpi, the incoming District Awards Chair. PP Louie then took the floor to promote the PHYLA. PDG Joji returned to share important Rotary protocols that will help guide the incoming presidents in managing their events and programs smoothly and effectively.

Incoming DG Reggie gave his final words of thanks, expressing his appreciation to the organizing team, the host clubs, and all the incoming presidents who gamely took part in the training with full heart and energy.

With the training given to the incoming presidents, they are now fully equipped—both in knowledge and in spirit—to lead their clubs into a strong, impactful, and meaningful Rotary year ahead.