The Sower's Quill by Pres. Chris Ferareza

Published in the Kaunlaran Newsletter on July 28, 2026. The Room Where It Happened

There are moments in Rotary that remind us why we continue to serve, year after year, project after project, and dream after dream. The recent 61st Induction Ball of the Rotary Club of Makati (the Club or RCM) was one such moment.

It was an evening of celebration, but more importantly, an evening of gratitude, fellowship, and renewed commitment. As I looked around a room filled with Rotarians, spouses, family members, project partners, dignitaries, and friends, I was reminded once again that Rotary’s greatest strength has never been its programs or projects alone—it has always been its people.

While I stood on stage to accept the privilege and responsibility of serving as President of the Club, the evening was never about me. It was about a family of leaders united by a common purpose: to create lasting impact—by bringing hope where it is needed most, transforming communities through service, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others

The success of the event was made possible by a team that poured their hearts into every detail. First, my deepest appreciation goes to the Organizing Committee (the Committee) led by our dynamic Past President and Immediate Past District Secretary Louie Aseoche. From the earliest planning sessions to the final moments of the event, the Committee left no stone unturned. Together with the Anns who devoted their time, creativity, and energy, they transformed an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable celebration.

A special thank you to our dancers—both members and Anns—for bringing energy, creativity, and life to our Hamilton-inspired performance. More importantly, I am grateful for the generous gift of their time, attending rehearsals and helping turn our vision into reality. Beyond the performance itself, I will always cherish the laughter, camaraderie, and memories we created along the way.

I must admit that after delivering my inaugural speech, I completely forgot the dance steps we had rehearsed. Thankfully, all of them were there. Through their subtle cues, encouragement, and support, they helped me remember every move as we danced together.

Special recognition must also be given to our Baby Rotarian of the Year (BROY), Mike Del Carmen. Once again, he demonstrated why he earned that distinction for Rotary Year 2025–2026. Through his dedication, leadership, and unwavering support, he played a vital role in ensuring the success of the event and helped make the evening truly exceptional.

Our Board, Officers, and Advisers who participated in the Hamilton-inspired video deserve tremendous credit for stepping well beyond their traditional roles and wholeheartedly embracing the production. On second thought, however, some may not have ventured quite as far outside their comfort zones as we initially believed. A few seemed remarkably at ease looking like women, while others revealed talents that perhaps even they did not know they possessed. Legal Counsel Regi Ponferrada, in particular, surprised many of us with rapping and dancing skills that deserve special recognition.

What made the entire experience truly unforgettable were the fun memories created during the preparations. Those moments brought us closer together, strengthened our friendships, and reminded us that Rotary is not only about serving others; it is also about finding joy in one another’s company and building bonds that make our service journey all the more meaningful.

The evening would not have been the same without the incredible tandem of PE Leo and Ann Luli. They did far more than host the program. They immersed themselves in the story, conducted their own research, refined the script, and brought warmth, humor, and authenticity to every segment. Their ability to connect with the audience transformed the program from a ceremony into an experience.

Our International Committee Director, Michael Hsu, deserves special commendation. Despite being abroad, he successfully organized and coordinated the team. Chairman Sonny and his dedicated group executed their plans flawlessly and even went the extra mile—literally—welcoming our international guests at the airport during the wee hours of the morning. Such gestures reflect the hospitality and fellowship that define Rotary.

Behind the scenes, our Advisers quietly played a crucial role. Their wisdom, guidance, and encouragement helped steer us through countless decisions and preparations. Their contributions may not always be visible, but their impact was deeply felt throughout the journey.

Words seem inadequate to fully convey my appreciation to PDG Sid Garcia and spouse Tesha for opening their home and hearts to host a special gathering for our Board, Officers, and Advisers just days before the Induction Ball. What could have been a simple fellowship event became a memorable evening of camaraderie, inspiration, and encouragement providing us with renewed confidence and energy as we prepared to embark on RY2026-2027.

I am also profoundly grateful for PDG Sid’s initiative in bringing together our esteemed PRIDs and PDGs. Their presence elevated the evening, not only with distinction and prestige but also with the wisdom, experience, and inspiration they generously shared. It was a powerful reminder that while we lead today, we do so standing on the shoulders of those who have led before us.

PDG Tony Quila deserves special recognition for consistently reminding me that my presidency was drawing near. There were moments when it felt like a form of gentle psychological conditioning, preparing me mentally and emotionally for the responsibilities that lay ahead. In hindsight, those constant reminders were a gift—they helped cultivate the mindset, perspective, and readiness I would need to step into this role with confidence and purpose.

PDG Pepz Bengzon gave us an inspiring charging session, which may have rivaled—or perhaps even surpassed the length of my own speech. Yet every word reflected his deep commitment to Rotary and his unwavering support for our Club. His arrival well ahead of the technical run spoke volumes about his dedication, professionalism, and generosity of spirit. For his guidance, encouragement, and steadfast support, I am sincerely grateful.

The evening was made even more memorable by the laughter and lighthearted humor brought by IPDG Reggie Nolido. His affectionate teasing and good-natured banter, while perhaps appearing to some as playful “bashing,” were, to me, unmistakable expressions of friendship and concern—the kind one receives from an older brother who genuinely wants the best for a younger one. His warmth, humor, and unwavering support reminded me that the Rotary journey is enriched not only by opportunities to serve, but also by the enduring friendships we forge along the way.

A special thank you to PP Conrad Marty, who—together with PDG Tony Quila—may be the person most responsible for my being here today as President. It all started when, during a club meeting where I was simply filling in for PP Keith and presiding over the program, PP Conrad boldly announced that I was already the Club’s President-Nominee-Designate. Looking back, I still cannot tell whether it was a prediction, a nomination, or a brilliantly orchestrated setup. So, if anyone is looking for someone to blame for my presidency, please direct all comments and complaints to PP Conrad!

I would likewise like to recognize our members whose generosity resulted in 42 Paul Harris Fellow pledges, which undoubtedly made our District Governor happy. Your commitment embodies the spirit of giving that has long distinguished the Rotary Club of Makati. Through your generosity, we extend not only financial support but also hope and opportunity, touching and transforming countless lives in the years to come.

And of course, no Rotary undertaking would be complete without acknowledging our indefatigable Secretariat led by Chief of Staff Ron Dotaro. While many of us took the stage, they worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often beyond regular hours, ensuring that every detail was accounted for. Their dedication, professionalism, and quiet perseverance were instrumental to the success of the event.

As I reflected on the evening after the last guest had departed and the lights had begun to dim, I realized that the true success of our induction was not measured by the program, the decorations, or even the attendance. It was measured by the spirit of unity that filled the room.

The induction may have marked the beginning of a new Rotary year, but it also reaffirmed something far more important: that the Rotary Club of Makati remains a family—one built on friendship, trust, service, and a shared commitment to creating lasting impact.

The ballroom where our induction took place may now be behind us, but the communities we serve lie ahead. There are families waiting for opportunities, children waiting for education, communities waiting for empowerment, and lives waiting to be touched by acts of kindness and service.

As we embark on this new Rotary year, let us carry forward the same passion, energy, and spirit that filled that room.

To every Ann, service partner, sponsor, dignitary, friend, and guest who joined us on that special evening—thank you. You did not merely attend an induction. You made it meaningful. You made it memorable. And together, we will make this Rotary year another unforgettable one.

To my brothers in RCM, my deepest and most heartfelt thanks. I am humbled by your trust, strengthened by your friendship, and inspired by your unwavering support.

The celebration is over. Now, the real work begins. Let the action begin!