The Sower's Quill by Pres. Chris Ferareza

Published in the Kaunlaran Newsletter on September 8, 2026.

Fireside Chat at the Clubhouse?

Tonight’s dinner meeting offers a welcome opportunity to gather once again at our Clubhouse while learning more about the Maharlika Investment Corporation.

We are honored to welcome Mr. Joel Consing, President and CEO of Maharlika Investment Corporation, who will share insights into the Corporation’s mandate, investment strategy, and role in supporting the country’s economic development.

The evening will also feature a fireside chat with Mr. Consing, joined by our own George Barcelon and Ronnie Siasoyco, for a focused and engaging discussion on topics of interest to our members.

My sincere thanks to VP/Director Philip Soliven and our newest Rotarian, Eric Cruz, for helping organize this timely and informative program.

I do not remember us having a meeting in this format before, and I am sure it will add a fresh perspective to our traditional gatherings. We look forward to an evening of warm fellowship, stimulating dialogue, and valuable insights.

Hope in Motion

Only a week after its activation, Hope Mobile was put to the test in the flooded areas of Bulacan and Pampanga and immediately proved its value in delivering timely assistance. It has truly become much more than a vehicle. It is now a vital service platform that enables RC Makati to deliver assistance more quickly and reach communities farther away, while making Rotary’s presence and commitment to service clearly visible.

Last Wednesday, the Hope Mission team brought relief to 500 families in Hagonoy, Bulacan, followed by another operation in San Fernando, Pampanga, where we distributed mats, blankets, rice, and food packs despite flooded roads and difficult conditions. Our thanks to Caritas Manila, RC True North E-Club, BFP, Laus Group, Philippine Red Cross, and our other partners who made these missions possible.

And just last Sunday, Hope Mission returned to Macabebe, Pampanga, bringing relief to 200 flood-affected families in Candelaria Riverside. We distributed food packs, rice, mats, blankets, and bottled water, with generous support from Laus Group, Balipure through PP Tito Panlilio, and Makati 3H Corp.

Led by our Disaster Relief Chair Nicky Ramos, together with our dedicated volunteers and team, Hope Mission continues to respond wherever we can make a difference.

Rotary Homes Muntinlupa

Last Thursday, RCC Chair George Haxton, together with the Rotary Homes Foundation officers, conducted the final inspection of the 12 new homes at Rotary Homes Muntinlupa. These form part of the 40 houses solely sponsored by RC Makati.

During the visit, George also met with representatives of our newly established RCC Malasakit.

I invite everyone to join us on October 3, Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, for the formal turnover of the 12 homes, which will also coincide with the Charter Presentation of RCC Malasakit.

Rotary Anns’ Doll-Making Session

Last Saturday, our Rotary Anns gathered at the Clubhouse for a hands-on pillow doll-making session with teachers from Acacia Waldorf School. These handmade dolls will be given to the young beneficiaries of our Last Angel Project.

The activity was made possible by IPFA Trina Galvez, Co-Founder of Acacia Waldorf School and Chair of this year’s Last Angel Christmas Project. Thank you, IPFA Trina, for sharing your time and skills with our Anns.

I’m not sure if there’s a deadline for making these dolls, or if FA Nette has simply fallen in love with doll-making, because we now have quite a collection at home!

More importantly, I hope everyone will support the Last Angel Project, which will be launched soon, as we once again bring joy and hope to children this Christmas.

RC Makati Strikers Team

Last Sunday, our RC Makati Strikers represented the Club at the District 3830 Bowling Tournament at Superbowl, Makati Cinema Square.

I came prepared to be a spectator and cheerleader, but after Dir. Patrick left the game, I unexpectedly found myself stepping onto the bowling lane.

As our team captain Regi Ponferrada confidently declared, “We are not here to participate, but to dominate!” We appreciate his optimism and are doing our best not to get in the way of his vision. Whatever the outcome, the real victory lies in the fun, camaraderie, and fellowship we share.

So, come and cheer for our team this Sunday. It’s definitely more fun when we’re together!

Upcoming Activities

We have several activities to look forward to in the coming weeks.

This Thursday, IPP Eddie Galvez will host the President’s Cup at Canlubang Golf and Country Club, with 21 players already confirmed. Thank you, IPP Eddie, for hosting this fellowship.

On September 12, we will represent RC Makati at the Zone 10A Awards for RY2025–26, where the Club is expected to receive recognitions in membership and public image. Congratulations in advance, IPP Eddie, on these new well-deserved awards. They are a fitting addition to the many accomplishments and distinctions the Club already achieved under your leadership.

Please also note that there will be no meeting on Tuesday, September 15, as it will be our Service Project Week. I encourage everyone to participate in a service activity or use the week to plan your upcoming projects.

We would be delighted if you could join our Food Share Program on September 18 in Padre Burgos, Batangas. Come and see firsthand the impact we can make in our communities when we serve together.

As we go through all these activities, i.e., from bringing relief to families affected by floods, building homes, bringing joy to children, and simply coming together as Rotarians, it reminds us that service is not only about what we do today, but about the lasting change we leave behind.

Let us continue to serve with purpose, create meaningful impact, and leave a lasting legacy of hope.