https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIBbbmwHUe4G7M0NDhRY0yLuZ8Pl6TCK/view?usp=sharing

In a landmark collaboration for environmental restoration and education, RC Makati, led by Pres. Keith Harrison, PND/VP Chris Ferareza, and Incoming Director CB Rivilla, joined the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on May 26, 2025, for a meaningful tree-planting initiative at the UP Sierra Madre Land Grant. This large-scale activity brought together key leaders from the UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR), including Dean Marlo Mendoza, Dr. Enrico Supangco, Executive Director of the UPLB Foundation, and Mr. Reynaldo Lorida, Land Grant Management Office (LGMO) Manager. Youth participation played a vital role in the event, with 15 members of the Interact Club of Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School led by adviser Mrs. Arlene Okuma, and 10 students each from the Sisters of Mary School’s Boystown and Girlstown campuses, accompanied by Sr. Mylene Arambulo and Sr. Esterlita. The Rotaract Club of Makati was also represented by PP Kash Gana and Rain Rubia. After a three-hour journey from Makati, participants were greeted with warmth and hospitality in the form of hot soup and traditional delicacies, providing much-needed comfort amid the drizzling and chilly mountain weather. The program commenced with welcome remarks from LGMO Manager Rey Lorida and a compelling address by Dean Marlo Mendoza, who emphasized the deeper purpose of the gathering not just reforestation, but a renewed appreciation for the ecological and academic significance of UP’s land grants and the remaining forests of the Sierra Madre, the country’s “last frontier.” Dean Mendoza elaborated on the strategic importance of the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant (LQLG), granted on February 8, 1930 via Legislative Act 3608, and the Laguna Land Grant (LLG), established on June 18, 1964 through Republic Act No. 3990. The LQLG spans 5,729 hectares and was created as a permanent endowment for the University of the Philippines, while the LLG serves as a central experiment station supporting the research and extension programs of UP’s Colleges of Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. Despite their critical ecological role in mitigating typhoon impacts from the Pacific and preserving biodiversity, many parts of these land grants remain degraded and in need of urgent restoration. Pres. Keith delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, recognizing Dean Mendoza’s leadership, the film production team behind the environmental advocacy movie showcased in schools, and the collective efforts that made the project possible. He also reflected on the moving student performance of “Let’s Build a Forest,” a poignant reminder of the Club’s shared mission to nurture the environment. Dr. Enrico Supangco reinforced his support on behalf of the UPLB Foundation, setting the stage for the ceremonial signing of the Deed of Donation between RC Makati, UPLB, and the LGMO. During this ceremony, RC Makati officially turned over a Php 460,000.00 check to fund the planting of four hectares of indigenous tree species under a newly launched Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) initiative. Following the formalities, the group hiked approximately one kilometer to the planting site, where Dean Mendoza led an interactive forest biodiversity walkthrough and guided participants through the correct tree planting techniques. Each sapling was carefully planted and tagged with the name of the individual planter serving as a personal pledge to environmental stewardship. The ITP initiative is a forward-thinking program designed to integrate ecological restoration with long-term educational benefits. Through sustainable harvesting of indigenous trees, the project aims to fund full scholarships and provide academic incentives for Latin Honor graduates and Forester Licensure Examination topnotchers. Additionally, it offers hands-on training for forestry students across the full production forestry value chain from seedling to sawmill while supplying raw materials for CFNR facilities. Beyond its academic and economic potential, the ITP project significantly contributes to forest landscape restoration, ecological services recovery, and CFNR’s ongoing community extension programs. With the first harvest anticipated in twelve years, the initiative upholds a strict commitment to replanting each tree harvested to ensure ecological balance. This endeavor not only strengthens RC Makati’s advocacy for sustainable forestry but also showcases the transformative power of partnerships in safeguarding the environment and investing in future generations.

The powerful message from the musical A Thousand Forests—that forests symbolize life, protection, and hope—resonated with over 5,000 students through special screenings. This awareness transformed into action on May 26, when 35 students (15 from Gen. Pio del Pilar and 20 from the Sisters of Mary Boystown and Girlstown) embarked on a tree planting mission in Siniloan, Laguna as part of the UP Los Baños Adopt-a-Forest program. Supported by the Rotary Club of Makati, these students contributed to restoring the Sierra Madre mountain range. The event featured a program with key speakers, including Land Grant Manager Rey Lorida and College of Forestry Dean Marlo Mendoza, who emphasized the Sierra Madre's importance for biodiversity. UPLB Foundation's Dr. Enrico Supangco highlighted partnership power in fostering a greener future. A Memorandum of Agreement formalized their commitment, along with the turnover of ₱400,000 to support both reforestation and forestry scholarships. Following a hike to the planting site, each student learned proper tree planting techniques, symbolizing hope for future forests. This initiative marks the start of a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.

Water is essential—imagine waking up with no access to it. You start your day not with breakfast or a shower, but by joining a long queue of people with buckets and water containers at hand. This was the daily reality for over 2,300 households in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur. For years, the residents of this municipality endured limited access to clean and reliable water. Their primary sources were communal pumps and water delivery trucks—systems prone to long waits and insufficient supply. But after years of scarcity, that burden has finally been lifted. RC Makati has successfully completed the Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur Deep Well Potable Water Supply and Distribution Project (Global Grant No. GG2092028)—a major initiative supported by contributions from RC Makati (US$20,000), RC Formosa Happiness, New Taipei City (US$1,000) as the international partner, Rotary International District 3830–Philippines (US$3,750), Rotary International District 3490–Taiwan (US$30,000), and the balance of US$42,750 from the world fund of the The Rotary Foundation. With total funding of US$97,500, the project enabled the construction of a new well and laid the groundwork for a fully operational Level 3 waterworks system, ensuring access to safe, sustainable water for thousands of residents. As of today, 574 households across eight barangays in Sto. Domingo now have direct access to clean water. On May 8, Pres. Keith Harrison, along with FA Rachel, PP JunJun Dayrit, and incoming Director Michael Hsu, traveled to Sto. Domingo for the project’s closing ceremony—celebrating a mission fulfilled. They were joined by project partners Mr. Nonoy S. Fernandez, Area Manager of 3H Sto. Domingo Waterworks; Barangay Captain Jun of Nagbettedan; members of RC Vigan; and residents now benefitting from the new system. The ceremony opened with a handwashing education session led by RC Vigan IPP Glenda Rabino, highlighting the importance of sanitation alongside access to clean water. PP JunJun gave an overview of the project’s journey—from its roots in the 3H Water Initiative in San Fernando, Pampanga, to the pandemic-induced delays that set back implementation for nearly two years. Pres. Keith conveyed his gratitude and joy at seeing the project through, while FA Rachel bridged the message in Ilokano, connecting more deeply with the local community. A ribbon-cutting and blessing followed, along with the signing of a usufruct agreement with the Sto. Domingo LGU, formally entrusting operations to MR3H and SD3HWI. The road to this success was not easy. The initiative began in 2018 under (then President) PP JunJun Dayrit, who launched the initial grant application. Though the first attempt lost funding due to delays, RC Makati reapplied in 2019 and persisted through a rigorous approval process—including a pivotal video call with the Areas of Focus (AOF) manager. The grant was approved on March 10, 2021, and the formal groundbreaking took place on March 19, 2022. During implementation, project objectives were adjusted with TRF’s approval. Originally, a shallow well and expanded distribution network were planned in the densely populated Poblacion area. But with no suitable wellsite available there, the project shifted to Barangay Nagbettedan, five kilometers away and home to about 150 households. A geo-resistivity test conducted by a hydro-geologist revealed that a deep well—not a shallow one—was needed. Though more expensive, the deep well offered greater capacity and long-term viability. As a result, Nagbettedan became the initial beneficiary. Plans are underway to expand distribution westward to Barangays Binongan (200+ households) and Nambaran (300+ households), and eventually link the system to Poblacion and adjoining communities. To support this expansion, a “Looping Project” was completed, linking Nagbettedan to neighboring Barangay Nambaran and connecting the network to a 150-cubic-meter Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tank in Barangay Nalasin. This auxiliary tank will provide backup water during peak demand or interruptions, drawing from the now fully interconnected pipeline system. The Sto. Domingo Water Project is a continuation of a legacy that began in Rotary Year 1999–2000, under then president, Tito Panlilio. That year, RC Makati secured a 3H (Health, Hunger, and Humanity) matching grant of $189,000 from The Rotary Foundation to launch the San Fernando Water Project in Pampanga. After a decade of effective operations under RC Makati’s supervision, the system was formally turned over in 2012 to the San Fernando City Water District. The initiative became known as the Makati Rotary 3H Resources Inc. (MR3H). Impressively, of the $189,000 grant, only $150,000 was spent—thanks to prudent management and favorable conditions—leaving $39,000 in savings. With TRF’s approval, these savings, combined with earnings from cooperative operations, funded a second water system in Virgen de los Remedios, Bamban, Tarlac, launched in 2009 and still operational today. Now, over two decades later, MR3H is behind its third major effort—the Sto. Domingo water system. Once fully expanded, this project is expected to serve up to 2,300 households or approximately 13,800 people across Ilocos Sur.

In pursuit of its enduring commitment to preventive healthcare and the empowerment of women through early detection, RC Makati, in partnership with the RC Makati Premier District and the Philippine Cancer Society, mounted a series of impactful cancer screening missions throughout April and May 2025. These missions provided free breast and cervical cancer screenings to women in both workplace and community settings across Luzon, reinforcing the club’s advocacy for accessible, proactive health services especially for those with limited means. The first of four major missions commenced on April 8, 2025, at the Sanitary Care Products facility in Tanauan, Batangas, where 100 women, primarily company employees received free screenings. Fifty-six participants underwent VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) testing, with three found positive and immediately referred for further medical evaluation. Additionally, 57 women received breast examinations, several of whom were flagged for follow-up, reinforcing the mission’s goal of workplace wellness through early diagnosis. This event marked the second collaboration for the Rotary year between RC Makati and the Philippine Cancer Society, further deepening their shared commitment to corporate-based health programs. The second mission followed on April 23, 2025, at Sanitary Care in Brgy. Bagumbayan, Taguig City, screening another 100 women. Twenty-six underwent VIA tests, resulting in one positive case, who received on-site cryotherapy and a week’s medication. Meanwhile, five women presented potential breast concerns requiring closer observation. This impactful mission was supported by PP Cesar Campos, Dir. Neil Makasiar, and Ms. Maribee Campos-Lamers of RC Makati Premier District, demonstrating inter-club cooperation in service to women’s health. The third screening mission was held on April 26, 2025, in Brgy. Mayapa, Calamba, Laguna, focusing on a more community-based approach. A total of 45 women underwent breast exams, with eight found to have breast masses that warranted further diagnostics. Eleven participants also received cervical cancer screenings, with no positive VIA results recorded. This community engagement showcased RCM’s commitment to extending quality medical access to women in low-resource areas. The fourth and final mission in the series took place on May 10, 2025, at Carissa Homes East 1 in Bagumbayan, Teresa, Rizal. Observed by Dir. Boy Arteche and Rtn. Michael Hsu, the outreach was bolstered by RCM’s Php 20,000 sponsorship, directly supporting the services provided. Of the 100 women screened, 50 received VIA testing three of whom tested positive and were treated immediately via cryotherapy. Eight participants were flagged for breast masses and were advised to seek further evaluation. The active involvement of club leaders not only emphasized Rotary’s hands-on service model but also reinforced the club’s steadfast support for holistic community health. These comprehensive missions addressed two of the most prevalent cancers affecting Filipino women breast and cervical cancer. With breast cancer as the leading type and cervical cancer being both common and largely preventable, early detection remains crucial. Through the provision of free services and prompt medical referrals, RC Makati has exemplified Rotary’s power to bridge critical healthcare gaps, especially for those with limited access. Altogether, five cancer screening missions were successfully conducted by RC Makati during Rotary Year 2024–2025, collectively reaching hundreds of women across Parañaque, Batangas, Taguig, Laguna, and Rizal. This sustained initiative reflects the club’s resolute focus on early detection, preventive care, and equitable healthcare access.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QyB_3qUdBkb0b2y82ecNaXfPURTCbDPb/view?usp=sharing

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.

Read more: https://tribune.net.ph/2024/07/07/new-rc-makati-president-vows-keener-concern-for-mental-health-environmental-concerns

https://drive.google.com/file/d/19fSYSL5sltr3mLsZid1dkrwzQjEL1dAF/view?usp=sharing

Fresh from their successful reef buds deployment in Narvacan on the morning of May 7, the RC Makati delegation—led by Pres. Keith Harrison with First Ann Rachel, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, incoming Director Michael Hsu, and CoS Ron—joined their brother club at the RC Vigan clubhouse for an evening of fellowship and formal partnership for the Eye Ayaten Ka Project. A dinner of delightful Ilokano specialties set the tone for the evening, which was officially called to order by RC Vigan Pres. Jun Tagorda. Then a presentation was made by IPP Glenda Rabino, the project proponent, on a comprehensive overview of the Eye Ayaten Ka Project. The initiative seeks to provide early vision screening using an auto refractor for non-reader pupils in public schools, refer those with visual impairments for further evaluation and treatment, and educate teachers and parents about the crucial link between vision health and learning outcomes. A tripartite MoA was then signed between RC Makati, RC Vigan, and Metro Vigan Hospital. Signing on behalf of their respective organizations were Pres. Keith for RC Makati, PE Benjie Buen for RC Vigan, and PDG Digna Ragasa, CEO of Metro Vigan Hospital. The hospital committed to ensuring proper equipment storage, regular maintenance, assignment of trained personnel, and accurate usage documentation. RC Makati’s P300K support was then formally turned over—specifically, funding for the purchase of the auto refraction machine that will serve as the cornerstone of the project’s implementation. This initiative was first approved in principle during the term of IPP Bing Matoto, with funding allocated for execution under the current term. The evening underscored not only the spirit of service but also the power of collaboration in addressing fundamental health barriers that impact education and community development.

Every week during the RC Makati meetings, we offer a symbolic gesture to our guest speakers—a replica of a steel plate to be installed in a reef bud that will be submerged in the Sea of Sulvec in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. This token carries more than just appreciation; it carries a promise. We tell our guest speakers: “This will be planted in your name.” The same plate is made for each new member inducted into our Club, and for the presidents of the sister clubs we visit. On May 7, 2025, that commitment was fulfilled. Traveling through the night, the RC Makati delegation—led by Pres. Keith Harrison and joined by First Ann Rachel, PP JunJun Dayrit, incoming Director Michael Hsu, and CoS Ron (who arrived a day earlier)—reached Narvacan at the break of dawn. They were welcomed with breakfast at Gremar’s Eatery, hosted by RC Narvacan. Soon after, they proceeded to the shores of Sulvec for the blessing of 47 new reef buds, bringing the total number to 385 since the project began under the leadership of PP Peter Manzano in RY2020–21. In a brief but meaningful program emceed by PP Arnel Cabatu of RC Narvacan, Benjhie Tayag—the supplier and inventor of the reef buds—recognized RC Makati as the single largest Rotary Club supporter of the Reef Buds initiative, with deployments not only in Narvacan but also in Padre Burgos in Quezon and Bauan in Batangas. Kapitan Paul Cabasal spoke about the visible impact of the project, noting the increased fish catch and rising interest from coastal tourists—early signs that marine conservation is translating into sustainable livelihood. Mayor Pablito Sanidad extended his heartfelt gratitude to RC Makati for four years of unwavering support. “Every visit feels like a reunion,” he said, “a different president each year, but always with the same purpose.” As a token of appreciation, he presented President Keith with a miniature statue of the Narvacan Watch Tower—a symbol of community pride and vigilance. In his message, Pres. Keith expressed enthusiasm over the project’s dual impact: promoting environmental protection while supporting economic growth in local fishing communities. This year’s 47 reef buds include the names of: Kiko Pangilinan, Heidi Mendoza, Rina Neoh, Yulo Loyzaga, Pres. Tom Wolf, RC Singapore, Pres. Danu Chotikapanich, RC Bangkok, Pres. Neil Ronard J. Que, RC Cagayan De Oro, Atty. Leila De Lima, Pres. Reynald Ariño, RC Zamboanga City West, Pres. Nathaniel Lacambra, RC Baguio Summer Capital, Pres. Joseph Raymund Sto. Domingo, RC Dagupan, Pres. Ralp Cambronero, RC Davao, Pres. Christopher Macadangdang, RC Cauayan, Marcus Smith, Roy Moore, Dean Marlo Mendoza, Caloy Yulo, Cynthia Carrion, H.E. Constance See, H.E. Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Marie Stephanie Tan Hammed, Anika Haxton, Pres. Tseng, Jeng-Keng, RC Taoyuan, Dominic Rubio, P/Maj. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba, Rogelio Singson, Raoul Eduardo Romulo, Mark Domitrak, Gov. Prescy Yulo, P/Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre, Emiliano Romano, Patrick Leynes, Gina Romero, Dr. Alaric Nathan, RIPE Mario Cesar Martins De Camargo, Aaron & Daianne Mempin, George & Anika Haxton, Dendricks & Jaimie Lao, Jun & Jovee Abrazaldo, Anthony Jude Violago, Robert Raymond & Sasha Del Rosario, Antonio Miguel & Kathleen Alcatara, Lorenzo Santos, Maximillan & Marcy Marty, Nicandro Ramos Jr., and Carlos Prieto. After the program, the team made a brief visit to the historic Narvacan Watch Tower, before proceeding to lunch at Chad’s Café and Bar, once again hosted by RC Narvacan. The Save Our Reefs Project of RC Makati stands as a clear example of how environmental protection can drive economic development—empowering coastal communities through restored ecosystems, improved fish haul, and increased tourism.

The power of connections — this best captures the spirit behind RC Makati’s ongoing support for the Payatas community. Our relationship with Payatas, through the Fairplay for All Foundation, was sparked by a remarkable young woman, Ronalyn Lagata, who was recognized as a special awardee in last year’s Paing Hechanova Youth Leadership Awards. That recognition of outstanding leadership introduced us to the wonderful work being done in Payatas. But we did not stop there — we chose to be part of their journey, helping to further strengthen their impact. On April 27, Pres. Keith & FA Rachel Harrison, together with Dir. Boy Arteche, returned to Payatas to join the celebration of the 14th anniversary of Payatas FC. The event also marked the formal opening of the newly renovated Payatas Sports Center, a project proudly supported by RC Makati through a P650,000 contribution, which included the provision of futsal shoes for the young athletes. The renovation included the upgrading of the outside court flooring, construction of a supporter’s wall, wall dividers, installation of CCTVs, wall extensions, a new roof metal cover, and improvements to washroom walls and dividers. During the event, RC Makati also unveiled the Four-Way Test marker installed on the wall beside the Center’s gate. The marker features two versions — one in English and another in Tagalog — serving as a daily reminder of the values that guide both the club and the community. The improved facility will definitely benefit the 250 registered players currently under Payatas FC. With these enhancements, we are aiming to reach up to 500 players engaged in multiple sports, develop more local coaches from Payatas, and help more young athletes earn varsity scholarships for higher education. Our commitment to Payatas reflects our belief that when we invest in youth, we invest in a brighter, stronger future — for the community and beyond.