RC Makati Video News: Service Projects in Ilocos Sur

On May 7, 2025, the Rotary Club of Makati delegation—led by President Keith Harrison—returned to Ilocos Sur. Not for a vacation, but for mission-driven work that has now become an annual tradition. With him were First Ann Rachel, Past President JunJun Dayrit, Incoming Director Michael Hsu, and Chief of Staff Ron. They arrived in Narvacan just before sunrise, ready to begin their environmental mission. At the shores of Sulvec, the blessing of 46 new reef buds was held—bringing RC Makati’s total to 385 reef buds planted in Narvacan over four years. Each reef bud represented guest speakers, new members, and the name of the presidents of the sister clubs RC Makati had visited. A brief but meaningful program followed, emceed by Past President Arnel Cabatu of RC Narvacan. Benjhie Tayag, supplier of the reef buds, recognized RC Makati as the single largest Rotary supporter of the Reef Buds project—having deployed units not only in Narvacan but also in Padre Burgos and Bauan. Kapitan Paul shared the visible benefits of the initiative—improved fish catch and a noticeable increase in coastal tourism. Mayor Pablito Sanidad expressed gratitude to RC Makati for four years of unwavering support, saying each visit feels like a reunion—different president, same purpose. As a token of appreciation, President Keith was presented with a miniature statue of the Narvacan Watch Tower—a symbol of the town’s vigilance and community pride. President Keith reflected on the dual impact of the initiative—protecting marine ecosystems while boosting local livelihoods. After a warm lunch hosted by RC Narvacan, the delegation traveled to Vigan to continue their mission. That evening, they joined RC Vigan for a dinner meeting—not only for fellowship but also to formally turn over RC Makati’s support for the “Eye Ayaten Ka” project. With a P300,000 donation from RC Makati, the project will fund a new refraction machine to help assess the eyesight of grade school students, especially non-readers. On Day Two, the RC Makati delegation made their way to Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur—for the closing ceremony of a life-changing water project. Funded by a $97,500 Global Grant, the project aimed to bring clean, safe, and sustainable water to Nagbettedan, a community of around 2,300 households. Before this project, many families endured long lines, waiting with buckets just to collect water. Today, over 500 households are already benefiting from a new well and pipeline network that marks the start of a Level 3 waterworks system—a full household tap connection model. The ceremony opened with a handwashing education session led by IPP Glenda Rabino of RC Vigan, emphasizing the importance of sanitation and hygiene alongside access to water. Past President JunJun gave a comprehensive project overview—from its roots in the 3H Water Initiative in San Fernando, Pampanga, to how the COVID-19 pandemic delayed construction for nearly two years. President Keith expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the chance to serve, while First Ann Rachel translated into Ilokano, strengthening the connection with the local community. A ribbon-cutting and blessing marked the project’s completion. A usufruct agreement was also signed with the Sto. Domingo LGU, formally granting project partners—MR3H and SD3HWI—the right to operate and maintain the assets for the duration of their usable life. Two days. Three towns. One purpose. Fellowship, service, and impact—Rotary Club of Makati’s Ilocos mission proves that when we serve, we grow stronger together.