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.

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SuPEERheroes program sponsored by RC Makati in partnership with RC Cagayan de Oro and Natasha Goulbourn Foundation. The event gathered Junior High School students from various schools in Cagayan de Oro City. The program focuses on empowering peers to support each other in dealing with mental health challenges, recognizing that young people may find it easier to confide in those of their own age group.

1 March 2025 — Rotary Club Makati, in partnership with RC Cagayan de Oro and the CDO LGU, launched the First 1,000 Days (F1K) Project to support 50 adolescent mothers in Cagayan de Oro. With P300,000 in funding, the project aims to provide access to sexual and reproductive health services, reduce early and repeat pregnancies, reintegrate young mothers into school, and improve secondary education completion rates. It also promotes responsible parenthood, financial assistance, and tailored interventions to support their well-being. Through this initiative, we empower young mothers to build a healthier future for themselves and their children.

Six months, 120 school days. That's how long the Rotary Club of Makati has been nourishing 30 children in Bagong Ilog, Pasig, helping them fight malnutrition and regain their strength. On February 7, we came together to celebrate this milestone. We met the children, witnessed their transformation, and shared in their bright futures ahead. Among those present were: Club President Keith Harrison ,PP Freddy with Jojo Borromeo ,PP Junjun Dairit, Rotarians Chito Cantada, Ambassador Melvin Castellino, Anton Cabrera, Nico Dairit, C.B. Revilla, George with Annika Haxton, Aaron and Diane Mempin. During the program, heartfelt speeches were delivered by President Keith Harrison and Past President Freddy Borromeo. It's true that Rotary is a worthy community, that we are all united in the hope of a better community and environment. And one of the most beautiful programs of Rotary is the improvement of the health of the next Filipinos, these children, and the parents. Hello! So today is the graduation. I can see that other than you don't shout so loudly, you look to be quite healthy. Yes? Yes. And with that, I hope the results show that the weight has come on nicely and you're going to grow into a healthy, well-educated, and bright kid who will leave the country in the coming years. This program, launched in August last year, provided each child with a daily serving of hot milk and nutritious meals for 120 days. Beyond the meals, parents were also trained to prepare affordable yet nutritious food for their families. By the end of the program, every child had returned to a healthy weight. And this Rotary year, we've already enrolled 350 more children. Since its arrival in 2004, this initiative has helped over 6,000 children escape malnutrition. But the celebration didn't stop there. Through the last Angel Gift-Giving Program, chaired by IPP Bing Matoto, the children received special gifts, along with slippers donated by Tabas Samson. This year, the last Angel Program has broken records in both donations received and the number of children helped. This is what Rotary does. It's not just about 120 days. It's about a lifetime of impact. The magic we create today will shape a healthier, brighter tomorrow.

It's been another banner year for our annual gift-giving activity, the Last Angel Project, organized by our Rotary Anns. Conceived in Rotary Year 1998-99 by then incoming First Ann Brin Panlilio and brought to life by Ann Angela Quila as its first chairperson, the Last Angel Project draws inspiration from a touching story in Reader’s Digest. It tells of a poor orphan who, on Christmas Eve, received the last angel from a tree of gifts in a department store—a gift from a kind woman who would later become her adoptive mother. Over the years, this tradition has blossomed, with the immediate past First Ann taking on the role of chairperson. This year, the project was led by IPP Bing Matoto, with incredible support from Anns Tess Aseoche, Cecille Dayrit, Rose Galvez, Trina Galvez, Rachel Harrison, Cat Rufino, Marie Segura, Amy Villatuya, and the entire Rotary Anns team. The Last Angel Project reached new milestones this year, with record-high donations totaling P1.2 million and a remarkable number of beneficiaries—nearly 3,800 children. The journey began on November 22, when Christmas came early for 65 students in our feeding program at P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City. This joyful event marked the kick-off of this year’s Last Angel Project. On November 27, we visited two familiar sites in Makati. First, the Bantay Bata ward at the Makati Social Development Center and Makati Youth Home, where children received gifts from their carefully curated wish lists, including clothing and shoes. Meals were also provided. Later, at the Bahay Maria Foundation, 16 orphans were treated to gifts and a meal, spreading the warmth of the season. Even on a holiday, on November 30, Rotarians and Anns gathered at the RC Makati Clubhouse to bring joy to over 200 children from our adopted barangay in partnership with RCC Bukluran. In December, the momentum grew. On December 6, the team visited the Philippine Institute for the Deaf in Pandacan, Manila, where 105 deaf children received gifts. The next day, on December 7, 150 children from the Sto. Niño de Pandacan community, mostly beneficiaries of our RC Makati for Babies program, were filled with joy as they received presents and meals The journey continued across the region: • On December 11, 320 children at San Juan Nepomuceno School in Pasay and 150 children at St. Claire of Assisi Parish in Longos, Malabon, experienced the spirit of Christmas. • On December 12, we brought gifts to 104 special needs children at Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School in Makati, home to our Interactors. • On December 13, we traveled to Tanay, Rizal, providing gifts to 70 children enrolled in our feeding program at Rawang Elementary School. On December 14, we visited several Gawad Kalinga communities in Taguig, distributing gifts to 75 children at GK Laura Drive, 65 children at CWC GK, and another 65 children at GK Jack N’ Jill." On December 15, 65 children from GK Sunshineville in Las Piñas received gifts and kiddie meals. In the afternoon, we brought joy to 65 street children enrolled in the Bolanday Project in Luneta. Partnering with the Makati PNP, we distributed gifts to over 330 children of policemen, making their holiday season extra special on December 16. On December 18, 150 children at Makabata Foundation School in Pasig received gifts, reminding them that they are loved and cared for. On December 19, 30 orphans at Sta. Rita Orphanage in Parañaque and 110 special needs children at Stepping Stone in Paranaque were treated to gifts and a festive celebration. On December 20, the team brought joy to 120 children at GK Smokey Mountain in Tondo and 70 children at GK Tatalon in Quezon City. On December 21, 200 children at the Marillac Hills Training Center in Muntinlupa and 150 PWD kids at San Pedro Calungsod Parish received gifts and shared in the holiday spirit. On December 22, just days before Christmas, we brought the spirit of the season to 120 children in the community of the Jesuit Mission Station in Caloocan." After Christmas, on December 28, we visited our adopted community at Rotary Homes Parañaque, distributing gifts to over 300 children in Par 1 and Par 3 of the community. Thanks to your generosity and the unwavering commitment of our Rotarians and Anns, the Last Angel Project continues to spread love and joy. Together, we’re creating brighter futures—one angel at a time. Thank you for your support, and see you next year!

Relentless lives, and leaving a legacy of hope and empowerment." October began with a journey to Botolan, Zambales, where RC Makati formally supported the Adopt-a-Payao campaign of the Atin Ito! Coalition. These innovative floating structures are designed to attract fish, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for local fishermen. The Club turned over P250,000 to fund the construction of two payaos, a project rooted in sustainability and community development. On October 6, RC Makati launched the Food n Books Program at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. In partnership with the Bolanday Group, this program aims to improve children’s literacy and nutrition. Every Sunday for the next year, children and community members will gather for engaging activities, supported by a Club commitment of P200,000. Later that day, the Club demonstrated its support for youth development by donating P320,000 to the Philippine Gymnastics Association in Intramuros. This funding will boost grassroots gymnastics programs, nurturing young talent and fostering athletic potential among Filipino youth. On October 12, RC Makati brought its environmental advocacy to life at the Sisters of Mary School in Silang, Cavite, with a special screening of A Thousand Forests. This project is more than just a film—it’s an initiative to inspire and empower the next generation to actively combat climate change and preserve our planet." The day didn’t end there. That afternoon, our Clubhouse in Makati transformed into a festive playground for over 120 kids at a Halloween Party. Partnering with Prodigious Philippines, we ensured the children enjoyed an afternoon of fun, laughter, and treats. On October 13, RC Makati, in collaboration with St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, launched the Book Reading & Feeding Program at the Manila South Cemetery. This initiative provides children living in the area with a safe and enriching environment to learn, reflect, and grow, while raising awareness about their rights and providing much-needed resources. The Club continued its service streak with several impactful events: On October 17, A Thousand Forests was screened for 500 students from General Pio del Pilar National High School. October 18 brought Oktoberfest to the Clubhouse, raising over P250,000 for the End Polio campaign. On October 19, President Keith’s signature project, 'RCM Special Magic,' was launched. This initiative supports SPED students, providing teacher and parent training, as well as child assessments, ensuring inclusive education in Makati’s public schools. When Severe Tropical Storm Kristine struck, RC Makati’s Disaster Relief Committee mobilized immediately. Starting October 25, relief goods were distributed in Bauan, Batangas, aiding families in evacuation centers with 160 mats, blankets, and hot meals. Partnerships strengthened our efforts as we joined RC Tuguegarao in distributing relief packs to 500 families in Cagayan and RC Lingayen for aid to 140 families in Pangasinan. In Bay, Laguna, over 300 families received essential items, including mats, blankets, and food packs. Back at the Clubhouse, Rotaractors packed an additional 300 food packs for upcoming distributions. On October 27 and 28, we extended our reach to Talisay and Laurel, Batangas, where landslides had devastated communities. Partnering with Balibago Waterworks, we delivered over 300 food packs and 80 sets of mats and blankets to families in evacuation shelters. With each relief mission, RC Makati reinforced its commitment to serving those in need. October 2024 was a testament to the power of service and solidarity. From disaster relief to educational programs, RC Makati demonstrated that through compassion and action, we can create a brighter future for communities across the Philippines.

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A nother heartwarming outreach activity unfolded on April 6, 2025, as the RC Makati, in collaboration with the Interact Club of Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School,gathered for a meaningful service project at Burnham Green, Luneta Park, Manila. By 7:00 AM, fifteen eager Interactors, accompanied by their dedicated Club Adviser, Mrs. Arlene Okuma, boarded the RC Makati-sponsored van at their school, joined by RCM Pres. Keith Harrison, for a morning of fellowship, play, and purpose.Upon their arrival at Luneta, the group was warmly welcomed by New Gen Youth Service Dir. Boy Arteche, Rtn. Nikko Dayrit, and the Bolanday for Kids team, led by Ms. Ida Arreza. Bolanday for Kids, a long-time partner program supported by RC Makati, regularly hosts outreach activities to uplift underprivileged children in the community. For the Interactors, this initiative offered a valuable opportunity to connect directly with the beneficiaries of RC Makati’s service programs and gain firsthand experience in community service. The morning’s activities kicked off with brief introductions between the Bolanday children and the Interactors, setting a cheerful tone for the day. Pres. Keith and Rtn. Nikko led a lively game of softball, where the joyful energy of both groups lit up the park. This was followed by rounds of traditional Filipino games and spirited badminton matches, creating an atmosphere of laughter, camaraderie, and inclusivity. Shifting from physical activities to artistic expression, the group then gathered for a painting workshop led by Ann Angela Garcia and her guest artist, Ms. Tates Cannon. With warmth and encouragement, they guided the children through an art session that celebrated creativity, self-expression, and confidence. The activity not only engaged the children’s imaginations but also fostered deeper bonds between the Interactors and the young participants. As noon approached, everyone came together to share a hearty lunch of pork giniling and rice, lovingly prepared by Bolanday volunteers. In a moment of joy and generosity, RC Makati distributed toys to the Bolanday children—gifts from the Club’s Last Angel gift-giving project, bringing smiles and excitement to the young faces. Before concluding their Luneta visit, the Interactors gathered for group photos at the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal, a symbolic stop that paid tribute to the national hero and celebrated the spirit of service, youth leadership, and patriotism. Following this, the Interactors enjoyed a a short tour of Intramuros, also sponsored by RC Makati, before returning to their school via the Club’s service van. This outreach program not only provided moments of joy, learning, and meaningful connection for the Interactors and the Bolanday children but also reinforced the RC Makati’s mission of nurturing compassion, leadership, and community service among the youth. RC Makati has committed P200,000 to support Bolanday’s Sunday Food n’ Book Program in Luneta for one year—a combined feeding and literacy initiative targeting underprivileged children. The program provides nourishing meals and engaging reading sessions for up to 100 children from Grades 1 to 3, addressing both hunger and learning gaps. Beyond weekly support, the initiative also serves as a platform for identifying deserving students for Bolanday’s Educational Assistance Program (EAP), offering them a pathway to continued academic support.. The Interact Club of Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School, sponsored by RC Makati, was first chartered on July 15, 1999, as Makati High School – Pio del Pilar Annex. After four years of inactivity, it was rechartered on September 15, 2022, under its current name. Starting with 50 members, the club has since tripled in size, now engaging 150 student members—mostly from Grades 8 and 9—in meaningful service and leadership.

Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to combating child malnutrition, RC Makati led by Pres. Keith Harrison, traveled to Calatagan, Batangas, on March 21, 2025, to witness the culmination of the club’s 120-day Feeding Program. Accompanied by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo, IPP Bing Matoto, and esteemed partners, the team celebrated the health and progress of 154 malnourished children from Angelita Zobel Elementary School and Balibago Elementary School. This marks the second consecutive year that these schools have been part of the club’s annual initiative, reinforcing RC Makati’s unwavering commitment to fighting child malnutrition. The feeding program, which began in October 2024, was made possible through a strong partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi and the E. Zobel Foundation. The formal ceremony was filled with warmth and inspiration. Pres. Keith engaged the children in a lighthearted yet meaningful message, encouraging them to embrace healthy eating habits. With a touch of humor, he told them that if they wanted to grow tall like him, they needed to eat their vegetables. He also reminded them to avoid excessive sweets and sugary drinks, emphasizing the importance of water and proper nutrition in their growth and development. Taking the stage next, PP Freddie, chairman of the club’s Nutrition Program for over 20 years, reflected on the essence of Rotary’s mission. He described Rotary as a global fellowship that unites people from diverse backgrounds with the shared goal of uplifting communities. At the heart of this mission, he emphasized, is ensuring the health and well-being of children. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to provide essential nutrition programs. Looking toward the future, he expressed hope that the children benefiting from this initiative would one day grow into leaders of their communities—and perhaps even future Rotarians. “The future of the Philippines is in your hands,” he told them, assuring that Rotary’s commitment to their welfare would continue in the years to come. IPP Bing, chairman of the Last Angel Gift Giving project for this rotary year, followed with a moving account of the program’s origins. He shared the touching story behind the name “Last Angel”—inspired by a department store’s tradition of placing angel figurines on a Christmas tree for each purchased gift. At the end of the season, one angel remained, representing a child who had not received a present. A compassionate customer later returned to ensure that no child was forgotten. This powerful message, he emphasized, mirrors the heart of the Last Angel Project—to ensure that every child, even beyond the holidays, experiences joy and a sense of belonging. The impact of the Feeding Program was evident in the testimony of the Balibago Elementary School principal, who proudly shared how the initiative had significantly reduced malnutrition rates among their students. From 134 beneficiaries last year, the number had dropped to 60 this year, with even greater improvements expected. Beyond health benefits, he highlighted how proper nutrition had positively influenced students’ academic performance, allowing them to focus better and excel in their studies. As the program ended, the children received their final serving of milk and a nutritious meal of rice and sautéed monggo, marking the official completion of the 120-day feeding initiative. The day’s most heartwarming moment followed the distribution of gifts as part of the Last Angel Project, bringing pure joy and excitement to the children. This event in Calatagan was the final leg of the annual gift-giving program, which had touched the lives of over 3,000 children this year. Adding to the generosity, Rtn. Taba Samson donated slippers for the children, while RCM provided textbooks to both schools as part of the Books Across the Seas Program in partnership with Rex Bookstore. Grateful for the generous support, the school principals expressed their appreciation for the books, recognizing them as valuable resources that would enhance their students’ education for years to come. To cap off the successful event, PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo welcomed the team to their scenic rest house in Calatagan, where they enjoyed a breathtaking ocean view, a celebratory lunch, and a toast with glasses of champagne. With Calatagan marking the third successfully completed Feeding Program this year, RCM continues to reaffirm its dedication to uplifting communities through nutrition, education, and service.

In line with its ongoing commitment to youth development, RC Makati returned to General Pio Del Pilar National High School on March 27, 2025, to conduct a Career Guidance Seminar for 150 Grade 10 students. This initiative, in partnership with the school’s Interact Club, aimed to inspire and equip students as they prepare for senior high school and beyond. The seminar was held in the school’s AVP room, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City, and was attended by Pres. Keith Harrison, PP Louie Aseoche, PND/VP Chris Ferareza, Dir. Boy Arteche, Dir. Neil Makasiar, and Rtn. Aaron Mempin. Interactors Marcus Dwayne Garcia and Rhyll Orada confidently hosted the event. The seminar was designed to guide students as they reflect on their future career paths, with four distinguished speakers from RCM sharing their personal journeys and offering invaluable advice. Each speaker not only discussed their respective fields but also emphasized the significance of perseverance, purpose, and passion in achieving success. PP Louie Aseoche was the first speaker and spoke about the true essence of being a lawyer, which goes beyond the formalities of barongs and courtrooms. He painted a picture of the legal profession as a calling, one that demands a dedication to justice and a willingness to stand for the oppressed. He shared his own experiences studying law during Martial Law at the University of the Philippines, highlighting the profound impact of legal pioneers who courageously fought against injustice. PP Louie also discussed the challenges students might face in law school, particularly the rigorous Socratic method, encouraging students to view these difficulties as opportunities for growth and to pursue law with passion and purpose. Dr. Nicky Ramos, the second speaker, shared his inspiring life story, focusing on his “3M principle”—Make it, Master it, Matter. He began by recounting his humble beginnings, where he worked feeding pigs, collecting restaurant leftovers, and washing jeepneys just to make ends meet. Despite these challenges, Dr. Ramos went on to become a licensed physical therapist in the United States. He emphasized that success comes from mastering one’s craft and using that expertise to make a positive impact on the lives of others. His message of grit, resilience, and determination resonated deeply with the students, urging them to rise above their circumstances and pursue excellence in whatever they choose to do. Dir. Neil Makasiar, an entrepreneur, took the stage as the third speaker and shared his journey from starting a business in Zamboanga to building a diversified business empire. His businesses, which span across food, retail, and manpower services, are a testament to his vision and hard work. He also spoke about his passion for giving back to the community, notably through the establishment of a free technical school for the children of his employees. Dir. Neil left the students with five key lessons: have a clear vision, take no shortcuts, build sustainable happiness, surround yourself with positive influences, and always stay rooted in faith and purpose. His words served as a powerful reminder that success is not only about financial gain but also about creating lasting, meaningful impact. The final speaker, PND Chris Ferareza, shared his personal journey as a certified public accountant. His talk centered around the importance of finding one’s “why”—the deeper purpose that drives us. PND/VP Chris recounted his own struggles with uncertainty, as he was initially torn between pursuing law, medicine, or a career in the military. He eventually chose accountancy, driven by the need to support his family. His story of balancing work and studies with limited resources during his college years in Manila served as a testament to the power of resilience and determination. He urged students to always seek a sense of purpose in whatever career they choose, as this would serve as their guiding light throughout their professional journey. After the talks, students were given the chance to ask questions and interact with the speakers. Rtn. Aaron Mempin took a moment to remind them that having access to such mentorship at an early age is a gift—and that with the right mindset, they each hold the power to shape their own future. The event concluded with a heartfelt message from Dir. Boy Arteche of the New Generation Youth Service, who encouraged the students to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams fearlessly, and remember that Rotary will always be there to support them on their journey. The final question of the day was directed to Pres. Keith: “What was your biggest challenge as a student?” He candidly shared that he wasn’t a top student and had experienced failure, even in exams. But instead of giving up, he and a close friend made a promise—to always retake, revise harder, and keep pushing forward, no matter how tough it got. “There’s always more in the tank,” he said. “So never give up. Keep chasing the dream.” As a token of appreciation, the school presented each speaker with a caricature portrait and a certificate of recognition. What began as a seminar ended as a turning point for many of the students. From being unsure of their futures, about 95 percent of participants left the event feeling inspired, motivated, and equipped with clarity for the next steps in their educational and career journeys.

In an effort to restore the Marikina Watershed and improve the local ecosystem, RC Makati, in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Makati and the Interact Club of General Pio Del Pilar National High School (GPDPNHS), participated in a vital environmental initiative at the Pamitinan Protected Landscape in Montalban, Rizal. The event, held as part of the Marikina Watershed Reforestation project, focused on reforesting the watershed to enhance water regulation, mitigate flooding risks, and rejuvenate the environment. Led by RC Makati and RC Makati F. Zobel, and supported by various Rotary clubs in District 3830, the project is a key initiative to restore one of the region’s most important natural resources. Despite the Sunday being a typically reserved family day, Pres. Keith Harrison and PND Chris Ferareza chose to dedicate their time to this crucial environmental effort. Joining them were First Ann Rachel Harrison and their son, Julyan, as well as Pres. Alex and Lucille Lopez from RC Makati F. Zobel, Pres. Vilma Alas from RC Makati McKinley, PP CJ David from RC Makati Ayala Triangle, and PP Butch Madarang from RC Quezon City Circle of D3780. Also present were members of the RAC Makati, led by Pres. Hira Hermoso, and 15 members from the Interact Club of GPDPNHS, accompanied by their adviser, Mrs. Arlene Okuma. The day began with a safety briefing, particularly for the younger participants, before heading to the bamboo nursery managed by the Samahan ng Kawayan sa Karugo Agri-Farmers Association. The main task of the day was not planting, but bagging young bamboo shoots in preparation for their future planting in the Marikina Watershed. The goal of the project is to plant 4,100 bamboo plants across 20 hectares, with the actual planting expected to begin around June or July. This work is crucial to the restoration of the watershed, as bamboo plays a key role in stabilizing the soil and improving water quality. During the activity, Pres. Keith shared his thoughts on the importance of environmental conservation and inclusion, relating a personal story about his son, Julyan, who lives with autism. He emphasized the value of involving everyone in community efforts, regardless of their background, and encouraged the participants to engage deeply with sustainability projects, illustrating that each person can contribute to making a meaningful impact on the environment. PND/VP Chris Ferareza also spoke on the importance of sustainability in both business and community work. He underscored the Rotary Club’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution and highlighted the Club’s collaborations in environmental conservation, such as efforts on Pagasa Island and with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on reforestation projects. His message stressed the need for local community involvement in creating sustainable spaces, pointing out that true environmental stewardship is built from the ground up, with contributions from people at every level. FA Rachel Harrison addressed the link between environmental sustainability and human rights, drawing from the UN’s publication, Climate Change and Human Rights for the Youth in the Philippines. She urged the youth to actively protect the environment, emphasizing that environmental conservation is essential to ensuring human dignity. She also highlighted the role of bamboo farming in promoting sustainable lifestyles, advocating for cross-generational collaboration in leading environmental efforts. Lastly, PP Butch Madarang and a local tribesman guided in the practical art of bamboo cutting propagation—an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood planting. They demonstrated how to select a healthy bamboo stalk with at least two nodes, carefully cut it at a 45-degree angle, remove excess leaves, and plant it in well-draining soil with proper moisture and shade. This hands-on learning emphasized bamboo’s significant environmental and economic advantages. Unlike hardwood trees that take up to two decades to mature, bamboo is harvestable in just three years, offering a sustainable livelihood for communities. Moreover, mature bamboo plays a vital role in climate resilience—it absorbs up to 500 kilos of carbon dioxide and produces 300 kilos more oxygen annually than typical trees. Its water retention capacity also helps mitigate flooding and erosion, while its endemic nature ensures high survival with minimal maintenance. Though the focus of the event was on bagging bamboo, the day exemplified a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. The Marikina Watershed Reforestation project is making steady progress, with plans to plant the 4,100 bamboo shoots, carefully monitored and nurtured as they grow. The event demonstrated the power of collaboration between Rotary members, Interactors, Rotaractors, and the local community in building a sustainable future for the region. As reported by the Samahan ng Kawayan, the planting process officially began on July 31, 2024, and continued through August 17, 2024. The bamboo plants have been monitored and cared for from February 24, 2025, to March 3, 2025. By this report, 3,570 bamboo plants have successfully survived, while 510 plants did not make it. This progress serves as a testament to the ongoing dedication of all involved to restore the Marikina Watershed and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.