RC Makati’s 60th Charter Anniversary: A Celebration of Service, Excellence and Leadership

“Glittering.”

That was how RC Makati’s charter presentation was described 60 years ago—and six decades later, the same word once again defined its 60th Charter Anniversary held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, with the theme “A Timeless Symphony of Legacy that Shines and a Future that Inspires.”

It was an evening of elegance, with nearly 400 guests dressed to the nines. The ballroom was transformed into a grand stage, highlighted by a diamond-inspired design and a massive LED backdrop that captured every moment of the celebration.

The evening began with a cocktail reception, where guests reconnected and shared in the excitement of the milestone event. They were then ushered through a specially curated walkway featuring the Club’s 61 past presidents—each recognized for their leadership and contributions—including seven distinguished members who served beyond the Club level.

The formal program opened with a world-class performance by Prof. Eun-Il Kang of RC Yejang—a trailblazing Korean musician known for bridging tradition and innovation. Playing the haegeum, a two-stringed Korean instrument, her moving performance carried a powerful message of peace and hope, setting the tone for the evening.

This was followed by the invocation led by PDG Tony Quila, who offered a heartfelt prayer of thanksgiving for God’s guidance in lighting the Club’s path of service, compassion, and leadership. He called on everyone to seek wisdom to discern the needs of the times, courage to pursue bold and meaningful service, and unity of purpose in living out the vision and mission of Rotary. He concluded by honoring the members of RC Makati who have gone before us.

In a solemn tribute, a special cello performance by Jieg Allermo of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra of “In My Life” by The Beatles accompanied the In Memoriam segment, as the names and faces of departed members were shown on screen—creating a deeply moving moment of reflection and gratitude.

The acknowledgement of guests was led by PDG Pepz Bengzon, who masterfully recognized the distinguished Rotary dignitaries, district officers, sister clubs from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan, as well as brother clubs from all over the country, the Unite for Good presidents, and valued project partners.

DS Louie Aseoche, Chairman of the 60th Charter Anniversary, then formally welcomed the guests, reflecting on six decades of service, leadership, and compassion that have defined RC Makati. He likened the evening to a symphony in two movements—first, a tribute to the Club’s legacy and its leaders, and second, a musical celebration led by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, symbolizing the journey of Rotary through the decades and into an inspiring future (see QR code below for the full speech).

Pres. Eddie Galvez then took the stage and delivered a heartfelt message, reminding everyone that the evening was not merely a celebration of time, but of a legacy built on Service Above Self. He paid tribute to the 46 charter members and the 60 presidents who led the Club with courage and integrity, and to generations of Rotarians who transformed resources into meaningful and lasting impact across communities. He emphasized that beyond projects and achievements, it is the spirit of service, leadership, and fellowship that defines RC Makati—turning the Club into a family bound by a shared purpose. As he expressed gratitude to past leaders, members, partners, and families, he also called on everyone to look ahead, to continue building on this legacy with bold vision, compassion, and commitment (see QR code below for the full speech).

DG Reggie Nolido delivered an inspiring message, sharing his personal journey to becoming District Governor—one that was deeply intertwined with the Rotary Club of Makati and its 60th Anniversary. He expressed pride in RC Makati’s rich legacy, highlighting its pioneering role in nation-building through landmark projects, strong contributions to The Rotary Foundation, and its enduring impact across communities. He emphasized that the Club’s achievements are not just milestones, but lasting legacies that have shaped lives and strengthened Rotary’s presence both locally and globally. Calling on members to continue this tradition, he reminded everyone that “the prize of service is more service,” urging Rotarians to remain committed to action and purpose. In a powerful moment, he led the members in a reaffirmation of their commitment to Service Above Self—closing with a strong call to remain united in doing good (see QR code below for the full speech).

Adding to the evening’s elegance was a four-course sit-down dinner exceptionally prepared by Marriott—featuring prawn timbale, cream of pumpkin soup, a choice of bourbon-glazed salmon or grilled US ribeye, and lychee crémeux for dessert—providing guests with a truly refined dining experience.

A special raffle was also held during dinner, with three iPads awarded to lucky winners – PP Cesar Campos, Anns Angela Garcia and Jenny Bosch. Two special paintings donated by PDG Sid & Tesha Garcia were likewise raffled off: “Pink Pond,” an inspired rendition of a sunken garden scene at Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada, painted by Marisa Romero, won by Ann Marilou Numata; and “Sunset at Candaba, Pampanga,” a landscape capturing the beauty and emotion of nature, painted by Maridi Nivera, won by Rtn. Rodrigo Segura.

One of the evening’s most meaningful moments came through a recorded message from PP Roger Davis, one of the two remaining charter members of the Club. He fondly recalled the early days of RC Makati, including the ambitious establishment of the Makati Post Office—once seen as an impossible project that ultimately transformed mail delivery in the city. He also reflected on key initiatives during his presidency, such as Miracle Rice, Kaunlaran Park, and the Makati Rotary Development Center, now known as Stepping Stone. He closed with a heartfelt message that resonated deeply with everyone: his enduring love for RC Makati and for every member who continues its legacy.

This was followed by a special AVP presentation showcasing 60 years of RC Makati—highlighting projects from its earliest days that continue to create impact today. What made the presentation particularly remarkable was the use of AI-generated technology, bringing old and static photographs to life, allowing the audience to experience history in a vivid and dynamic way.

The highlight of the evening followed as the Club paid tribute to its past presidents—the leaders whose dedication and vision shaped RC Makati into what it is today. Each past president walked the red carpet wearing a limited-edition 60th Charter Anniversary jacket, as their year of service and Rotary theme were announced, with their photos displayed on the screen alongside their live walk. Upon reaching the stage, they were awarded a gold Rotary medallion by Pres. Eddie. For those who had passed on, their Rotary Anns or children received the honor on their behalf, adding a deeply emotional dimension to the tribute. Those who needed assistance were graciously guided by PE Chris Ferareza, PN Leo de Leon, and future president Ferdie Ordoveza. The segment culminated with the presentation of the charter cake and a photo opportunity for posterity—capturing a powerful moment of legacy, pride, and continuity.

To formally close the evening, PDG Sid Garcia delivered a meaningful message reflecting on the true legacy of RC Makati—not in milestones alone, but in the countless lives transformed through its projects: families given shelter, children nourished, students educated, patients healed, and communities uplifted. He emphasized that Rotary’s true spirit lies in building programs that endure beyond generations, and reminded members that while the past is worth celebrating, the future now rests in their hands. He called on current and future leaders to carry the torch forward with courage, innovation, and renewed commitment, ensuring that the next 60 years will be even more impactful. The evening concluded with a ceremonial toast—honoring the Filipino people, Rotary partnerships, Rotary International, and the continued growth and success of RC Makati.

Right after Pres. Eddie formally adjourned the event, the ballroom was plunged into total darkness—marking the transition from the formal program to the evening’s entertainment. From the crowd emerged 13 dancers, each holding illuminated orbs, moving in harmony to a narrated musical piece that encapsulated the theme “A Timeless Symphony of a Legacy that Shines and a Future that Inspires.” In a breathtaking moment, a performer descended from the ceiling, showcasing a stunning display that drew awe and applause from the audience.

This marked the beginning of the main entertainment, as the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Maestro Rodel Colmenar, performed dynamic renditions of popular songs through the decades—bringing the theme of a “timeless symphony” to life.

The celebration continued well into the night, culminating in a lively dance set with DJ Angelika, who kept the energy high and the crowd on their feet until almost midnight.

RC Makati extends its heartfelt gratitude to its generous sponsors—Balibago Waterworks Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Winston Uy, AJ Violago, Felix Ang, Trinity Insurance Brokers, All Asian Countertrade, Balibago Waterworks Group of Companies, GG& A Club Shares—for their invaluable support in making this milestone celebration possible.

The Club likewise recognizes the dedication and hard work of the Charter Organizing Committee—Pres. Eddie Galvez Convenor, DS/ PP Louie Aseoche Event Chair, Michael Del Carmen Production, PDG Sid Garcia Adviser, Tony Albie Lopez Ways and Means, Howie Calleja Entertainment & Fellowship, Neil & Camille Makasiar Food & Cocktails, Ric Gindap Branding, Dir. Andy Mañalac Public Relations, IPP Keith Harrison, Tony Albie Lopez, Dir. Michael Hsu, Dir. Derrick Tan, Dir. Paolo Turno, George Haxton and Numata Makoto, Sister Clubs Activities, COS Ron Dotaro, Angie Falceso, Rhia Paula Vallejo, Richard Manilag, Al Marcial, Pat Cañarez and Jilyan Adriano, Secretariat & Registration, Jane Mangubos and Dianne Fabros Acts & Events Production Team—whose efforts brought this remarkable event to life.

As the evening ended, it stood as a powerful reminder of what RC Makati represents—excellence in leadership, integrity in service, and a vision that continues to inspire generations.

Sixty years on, RC Makati remains steadfast—honoring its legacy while shaping a future that shines even brighter.