RC Makati’s 61st Induction – Elegant and Inspiring

From the action-packed world of Mission: Impossible to the musical masterpiece Hamilton, RC Makati once again showcased its creativity and excellence as it celebrated its 61st Induction Ball at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila on July 17, 2026.

Inspired by the themes of Hamilton—leadership, legacy, and the courage to create lasting change—the evening marked the formal turnover of leadership from IPP Eddie Galvez to Pres. Chris Ferareza.

The evening began with a lively cocktail reception where members, Anns, and guests reconnected and caught up with one another while enjoying classics performed by the 24K Band. This was followed by the Club’s traditional Lechon Parade, with PP Freddie Borromeo, DG Jaz Limon, and Pres. Chris leading the ceremonial carving, officially opening the evening’s festivities.

The formal program commenced with an invocation led by PP Peter Manzano, who reminded everyone to use their God-given gifts in serving others with humility, courage, and compassion, leaving a lasting impact through Rotary’s ideal of Service Above Self. This was followed by the recitation of The Four-Way Test, led by Mike del Carmen.

Hosting the celebration were the evening’s emcees, the power couple PE Leo & Luli de Leon, who guided the program with remarkable poise, warmth, and engaging personality. Their seamless delivery and stage presence added an extra layer of elegance and glamour to an already exceptional event.

PP Keith Harrison then took the stage to acknowledge the distinguished guests in attendance. He warmly welcomed the visiting sister clubs from abroad, the Club’s brother clubs and local Rotary partners, District officers, daughter clubs, High Impact Presidents, project partners, honored guests, and friends of Rotary.

In his welcome remarks, PP Louie Aseoche, chairman of the 61st Induction Ball, introduced the evening’s Hamilton-inspired concept, describing it as a refreshing departure from the Club’s previous action-themed productions. Drawing a symbolic transition from James Bond and Ethan Hunt to Alexander Hamilton, he said that the theme of Hamilton resonates well with Rotarians who, like the revolutionary figures in the musical, have long been waging a revolution in the areas of focus, such as —fighting disease, hunger, illiteracy, and poverty in order to create lasting change. PP Louie also expressed his gratitude to the members, Anns, committee chairs, sponsors, the Secretariat, ACTS & Events, the Rotaractors, and the many volunteers whose creativity and dedication made the ambitious production possible. He concluded his Welcome Speech by recalling the valedictory address of Past RI President Arrezo during the Taiwan RI Convention, that continuity is the essence of a great organization, and that leadership is not a race for the swift and the fastest, but it is about the preparation and preparedness of the upcoming leaders as well. He likened the induction event to a relay race that can only continue if the one receiving the baton is ready to take it and run at full speed. PP Louie then said that RC Makati members had “United for Good” under IPP Eddie, and the members are now poised to “Create Lasting Change” under the leadership of Pres Chris.

The dinner service then commenced with a delightful waiters’ parade, as the hotel staff entered the ballroom dressed in Hamilton-inspired costumes, complete with bibs and ruffled sleeves, adding another theatrical touch to the evening. Guests were then treated to a delectable four-course dinner, served while the 24K Band serenaded the audience.

Right after dinner, PDG Sid Garcia introduced the evening’s Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker, Aurelio “Gigi” Montinola III, Chairman of Far Eastern University. In an inspiring address, he commended RC Makati for six decades of transformative service, particularly its commitment to education, environmental stewardship, and community partnerships. Focusing on the future of Philippine education, he challenged Rotarians to become stronger advocates for literacy, teacher development, and youth employment, while citing RC Makati’s AI Academy as a model worthy of replication. He concluded by encouraging the Club to continue leading meaningful and sustainable initiatives that will help shape a better future for Filipino learners.

The evening then arrived at its most significant moment as the incoming Board of Directors and Officers were presented and took their places on stage for the ceremonial oath-taking, formally accepting the responsibilities of leading the Club for the new Rotary year. Before the oath, PDG Pepz Bengzon delivered a stirring charge, reminding the incoming leaders that while Rotary is blessed with talent and resources, the most valuable gift every Rotarian can offer is time. He challenged the Board to lead by example through active participation, unwavering commitment, and selfless service, emphasizing that true leadership is measured not by recognition but by the willingness to dedicate one’s time, talent, and treasure to creating a lasting transformation. His message concluded with a call for the officers to serve wholeheartedly and inspire the membership to uphold RC Makati’s tradition of excellence before calling on DG Jaz Limon to administer their oath.

DG Jaz then proceeded with the reading of the Oath of Office to the incoming Board of Directors and Officers, led by Pres. Chris, with First Ann Ronette Tanjuatco and daughter Kris standing proudly by his side. The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo opportunity featuring DG Jaz Limon, Guest of Honor Mr. Gigi Montinola, and the newly inducted officers, symbolizing the official passing of leadership and the Club’s renewed commitment to Rotary’s theme this year, which is to Create Lasting Change.

The evening proceeded to the time-honored Ceremonial Turnover of Leadership, administered by PDG Tony Quila, whose enduring presence and guidance ensured that every symbolic act was explained and unfolded with dignity and purpose.

IPP Eddie Galvez first conferred the President’s Pin upon Pres. Chris Ferareza, who in turn gave the Past President’s Pin to the outgoing president, symbolizing the seamless transition of leadership. The exchange of the Rotary International banners represented the passing of the Rotary year’s theme from “Unite for Good” to “Create Lasting Change.” Pres. Chris also presented IPP Eddie with a bound compilation of the 35 issues of Kaunlaran, the Club’s official bulletin documenting the year’s meetings, projects, and milestones. Next was the ceremonial passing of the gavel, which is the enduring symbol of authority and responsibility, followed by Pres. Chris’ presentation to IPP Eddie of the Club’s traditional Plaque of Recognition, featuring the very gavel that he used throughout his presidency—a cherished keepsake commemorating a remarkable year of leadership and service. The turnover ceremony concluded with the traditional exchange of a bouquet of flowers between Incoming First Ann Ronette Tanjuatco and Outgoing First Ann Trina Galvez.

Continuing another cherished Rotary tradition, PDG Tony remained on stage to recognize the Club’s unwavering commitment to The Rotary Foundation. He acknowledged the 42 members who pledged to become Paul Harris Fellows this Rotary year through their US$1,000 contributions.

IPDG Reggie Nolido then took the podium to formally introduce Pres, Chris. He opened with a frivolous reminder of the “final warning” he gave to President Chris before agreeing to let him do the introduction—a warning that immediately set the tone for what would become one of the most memorable introductions ever made in the history of club inductions. With his trademark wit and deliberate delivery, IPDG Reggie recounted President Chris’ journey from a young farm boy in San Narciso, Zambales, to his academic achievements, distinguished professional career, and the many leadership positions he held in RC Makati before assuming the presidency, interspersed with pockets of good-natured ribbing about President Chris’ height, making the event very engaging, heartfelt, and sincere.

The evening’s formal program culminated with the Inaugural Address of Pres. Chris Ferareza, one of the most anticipated moments of the celebration. In a heartfelt and inspiring speech, he reflected on the life-changing experience that first introduced him to Rotary as a young boy, paid tribute to the mentors who shaped his leadership journey, and unveiled his vision for the Club anchored on mobilizing ethical leaders, leveraging sustainable resources, and driving thoughtful innovation. He challenged every Rotarian to continue planting “seeds of hope” through meaningful service and to work together in creating lasting impact for generations to come.

No RC Makati Induction Ball would be complete without the Club’s much-awaited special entertainment numbers, a tradition that has become one of the hallmarks of every induction. This year’s production once again showcased the remarkable talents of RC Makati members and Anns, who delighted the audience with energetic dance performances and musical numbers that perfectly complemented the Hamilton-inspired theme of the evening.

The dazzling dance performances featured FA Ronette Tanjuatco, Chum Aquino, Tess Aseoche, Jennife Edwards, PP Doris Ensomo, Rose Galvez, Maribee Campos-Lamers, Camille Makasiar, Dena Montinola, IPFL Sue Ann Nolido, Myda Prieto, Marie Segura, Christine Turno, and Amy Villatuya, while the gentlemen—Pres. Chris Ferareza, PP Louie Aseoche, PP Junjun Dayrit, Lester Kiong, Neil Makasiar, Regi Ponferrada, Paolo Turno, and Dir. Bom Villatuya—kept the audience entertained with their own lively performance. The musical segment was equally impressive, with Pres. Chris Ferareza, PP Louie Aseoche, IPDG Reggie Nolido, and Sonny Tambunting Jr. serenading the crowd with the song “Dear Theodosia”– which was about the Musical’s protagonists’ promise to their newborn children to build a better world for them– adding poignancyo the festive celebration.

Another audience favorite was the return of the Club’s now-signature Hamilton-inspired video presentations, strategically woven into different parts of the program to tell the story of leadership transition with creativity and humor. Pres. Chris Ferareza starred as Alexander Hamilton, while PDG Sid Garcia portrayed George Washington and PP Louie Aseoche took on the role of Aaron Burr. Joining them as members of the “Cabinet” were Dir./Sec. Nikko Dayrit, PE Leo de Leon, Treas. Julian Lim, Dir. Patrick Parungao, Dir. CB Rivilla, and Dir. Bom Villatuya, while Dir. Roger Collantes, Legal Counsel Regi Ponferrada and VP/Dir. Philip Soliven played the role of skeptics. The entertaining production once again proved why these themed videos, which was first conceptualized during the term of PP Louie, have become a beloved tradition of RC Makati’s induction ceremonies, with members eagerly looking forward to each year’s creative adaptation.

As the formal program came to a close, the celebrationsegued into an evening of fellowship as members, guests, and visiting Rotarians filled the dance floor to the lively music of DJ Milky.

Before midnight, Pres. Chris welcomed everyone to another cherished RC Makati tradition—the President’s Breakfast.

More than an elegant black-tie affair, the 61st Induction Ball was a celebration of leadership, fellowship, and service. It honored the achievements of the past, welcomed a new chapter of leadership, and reaffirmed the Club’s enduring commitment to making a difference. As Pres. Chris aptly declared in his inaugural address, the evening was not merely a celebration—it was a promise: a promise to honor Rotary’s legacy, build upon the work of those who came before, and to continue Creating Lasting Impact for generations to come.