RC Makati-Sponsored Interact Club of Gen. PioHolds First Induction Ceremony

From taking their oath alongside other school organizations in a mass ceremony to holding their first-ever induction, the Interact Club of Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School in Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City, marked a meaningful milestone on October 10, 2026. Held at the school’s Audio-Visual Room, the ceremony celebrated the club’s growing identity and a new generation of leaders ready to put “Service Above Self” into action.

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The program opened with a call to order by IAC IPP Sam Chavez, followed by an invocation led by IAC Sec. Samantha Huevia. IAC VP King Barbosa then led the Four-Way Test, reaffirming the values that guide Rotary and Interact service. Emcees Christian Machica and Breanna Ortega guided the gathering through the celebration.

IAC Dir. Adryana Vasquez acknowledged the guests, while School Principal Dr. Emi Cajigal delivered the welcome remarks. IAC Dir. Katelene Lizo introduced keynote speaker Dir./Sec. Nikko Dayrit, for New Gen Youth Service.

In a message grounded in everyday kindness, Dir. Nikko reminded the students that service does not depend on age, financial capacity, or position. Lending a pen, helping a classmate with a lesson, or listening to a friend facing difficulties can make a meaningful difference.

He also introduced the “buddy bench” concept—a place where a student feeling lonely can sit and be joined by another student offering companionship. His message encouraged the Interactors to begin with what they already have: the strength, intelligence, and heart to help others. There is no need to wait for abundance before choosing to share.

The handover of the bell and gavel from IAC IPP Sam to IAC Pres. Nap Cordoviz symbolized the passing of responsibility to a new team. The program also included the valedictory address and presentation of a leadership award, recognizing the service that helped bring the club to this milestone.

In his charging message, Interact Chair Ken Vergaño reminded the incoming officers that leadership is more than a title—it is a commitment to others. He outlined four guiding principles: lead with humility, work as one team, uphold integrity through the Four-Way Test, and look beyond the school gates for opportunities to serve.

Chair Ken thanked the outgoing officers for the foundation they had built and assured the new leaders that their advisers, teachers, and the Rotary Club of Makati would continue to guide and support them. The officers then affirmed their commitment to service, teamwork, and the ideals of Interact.

Dir. Nikko administered the oath to the incoming officers, formally entrusting them with their new responsibilities. IAC Pres. Nap Cordoviz followed with his inaugural address, marking the start of his leadership term.

Following the oath-taking led by Dir. Nikko, a surprise video message from Senator Bam Aquino added a special highlight to the celebration. He congratulated the Interactors on their first independent induction ceremony and emphasized the importance of developing leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Reminding them that age is no barrier to serving their community, he encouraged the students to embrace their roles as young leaders. He also commended RC Makati for its guidance and support, closing with a salute to the new leaders of Gen. Pio DPNHS and the Filipino youth.

Joining the celebration were PP Keith Harrison, Dir./Sec. Nikko Dayrit, Interact Chair Ken and Yam Vergaño, RAC Makati Pres. Princess Pol, and PP AJ Sembrano. Drawing on their experience in organizing club activities, Pres. Princess and PP AJ guided the Interactors from planning through the implementation of the program, helping the students bring their first independent induction to life. Interact Club advisers Mrs. Arlene Okuma and Ms. Divine Antonio were also present, reflecting the partnership between the school and Rotary in nurturing young leaders.

The milestone carries added meaning in the club’s history. Organized on July 15, 1999, the Interact Club of Gen. Pio DPNHS became inactive during the pandemic. It was reorganized during the term of PP Michael Escaler in RY 2022–23 through the initiative of then-Treasurer, now Director, Tony Lopez. Currently composed of 40 members, the club continues to nurture young leaders committed to service. Its first independent induction marked another milestone in this journey.

Fully sponsored by RC Makati, the event concluded with a social hour that brought Interactors and guests together in fellowship. More than a ceremonial passing of titles, the occasion affirmed Rotary’s commitment to helping young people discover their capacity to lead—and to turn simple acts of kindness into a lasting habit of service.