Published in the Kaunlaran Newsletter on July 7, 2026. Why The Sower's Quill? Every generation is given a field to cultivate and a story to write. Some inherit fertile ground. Others are called to break new soil. But all of us are entrusted with the same responsibility: to plant seeds whose harvest may benefit people we may never meet. That is the spirit of Rotary. Like a sower, we serve with faith—believing that every act of kindness, every project, every partnership, and every life touched has the potential to grow into something far greater than itself. And like a writer holding a quill, we each have the opportunity to leave our mark by helping shape a better future. Through The Sower's Quill, I hope to share the vision, values, and stories that will define our journey this Rotary year. Guided by our flagship initiatives—BERDE (Building Edible, Resilient, and Dynamic Environments), MULAT (Mobilizing Urban Leaders and Advocates for Traffic Awareness and Transformation), and the THREEE initiative (Educate, Empower, and Employ)—we will plant seeds of hope, cultivate leadership, and empower communities to shape their own future. Together, we will write a new chapter of Kaunlaran—one where service creates opportunity, partnerships multiply impact, and innovation transforms lives. Every project, every act of generosity, and every volunteer hour becomes a seed planted in fertile ground. For every harvest begins with a seed. Presentation of Plans, Objectives, and Budgets Today marks the first regular meeting of Rotary Year 2026–2027—a moment not merely to present plans and budgets, but to declare the future we intend to build together. As our Directors share their Plans, Objectives, and Budgets (POB), I invite you to look beyond the numbers and timelines. What will be presented today is more than a program of activities. It is a shared vision of service, leadership, and impact. It is our collective commitment to the communities we serve and to the legacy we aspire to leave behind. This year, our Club embarks on a renewed strategic direction anchored on three powerful pillars: Mobilize Ethical Leaders The world's greatest need is not merely for leaders, but for leaders of character. We will cultivate Rotarians who lead with integrity, compassion, and courage—individuals who inspire others through action and exemplify Rotary's ideals in their professions, communities, and daily lives. Through fellowship, mentorship, and service, we will empower more leaders to become agents of positive change. Leverage Sustainable Resources Great visions require strong foundations. By strengthening membership engagement, nurturing meaningful partnerships, and being responsible stewards of our resources, we can expand our reach and multiply our impact. Individually, our contributions may seem small; together, they become a force capable of creating lasting impact for generations to come. Drive Thoughtful Innovations The problems of today demand more than traditional solutions. Through innovation, technology, collaboration, and fresh thinking, we will develop programs that are scalable, sustainable, and transformative. Initiatives such as BERDE, MULAT, and THREEE embody our commitment to creating solutions that not only address immediate needs but empower communities to thrive long into the future. These pillars are more than strategic priorities. They are the foundation of the future we are building together. They challenge us to think bigger, serve smarter, and lead better. But strategy alone does not create impact—people do. I invite every member to step forward and find a place in this journey. Serve on a committee. Lead a project. Mentor a young professional. Share an idea. Open a door to a partnership. Invest your talents in a cause greater than yourself. The success of this Rotary year will not be measured solely by the number of projects completed or funds raised. It will be measured by the leaders we inspire, the communities we empower, the opportunities we create, and the lives we transform. Let us move forward with unity, purpose, and conviction. Let us sow generously, serve courageously, and build a legacy that will endure long after this Rotary year has ended. 61st Induction Ball – July 17 As we prepare to formally begin another Rotary year, this is our final call for the 61st Induction Ball on 17 July 2026 at the Rigodon Ballroom, The Peninsula Manila. If you have not yet confirmed your attendance, we encourage you to do so at the earliest opportunity so we may reserve your seat. Gentlemen are requested to come in black tuxedo, while ladies are requested to wear a long gown for this special evening. We have prepared an evening of fellowship, celebration, and inspiration. Enjoy special performances by our members and Anns, along with the premiere of our adaptation of the acclaimed musical, Hamilton. Filming the video was truly a memorable experience—an entire day of hard work, laughter, and camaraderie—and I extend my heartfelt thanks to our Board members who enthusiastically took part in the production. We hope you'll enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed creating it. As we gather on that evening, may we be reminded that the true strength of our Club lies not in any one individual, but in what we can accomplish together. We look forward to welcoming you and your Ann on 17 July at The Peninsula Manila as we embark on a new Rotary year filled with opportunity, purpose, and service. United by our shared commitment to do good and make a difference, let us work hand in hand to create meaningful change in the lives of those we serve. Together, let us Create Lasting Impact.

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After months of learning sessions, mentoring, and collaboration, RC Makati formally concluded the HATCH+ Cohort 2 Incubation Program through its Final Pitch held last May 30, 2026 at the RC Makati Clubhouse in Makati City. Over the course of 13 sessions, the participating startups underwent intensive mentoring, workshops, and business development discussions designed to help refine their ideas into socially relevant and sustainable ventures. The program is being spearheaded by incoming Dir. Bom Villatuya, who serves as the Chairman of the initiative. Even during the Hackathon held in RY 2021-2022 during the term of DS Louie Aseoche, Bom had already been the driving force and creative mind behind these kinds of innovation and technology-driven programs of the Club, continuously helping develop projects that create meaningful social impact. The HATCH initiative began during the term of IPP Keith Harrison as a platform that combines innovation, mentorship, and service in supporting emerging entrepreneurs. One notable startup from the earlier incubation cycle was KadaKareer, which now serves as the project implementor of the Club’s AI Academy program. The incubation phase officially started in February 2026 following the signing of the MoA and recruitment process in late 2025. Throughout the program, startup founders underwent lectures, workshops, and mentoring sessions facilitated by industry practitioners and entrepreneurs, with active support from Club members. Present during Demo Day were DG Reggie Nolido, DGE Jaz Limon, Pres. Eddie Galvez, IPP Keith Harrison, IP Chris Ferareza, Dir. Roger Collantes, Dir. Paolo Turno, Rodrigo Segura, Chris Edwards and daughter Trinley, PE Ian Gonzales of RC Parañaque St. Andrew, and PE Richard Cariño of RC Makati Gems. Featured startups included A.R.C. Mobility, The Good Store Philippines, FISHAO, E-Konsulta, Fynlo, AGAPAI Tech, Pilgrim Health, The Nest By The Sea, JuanderGo, KAYA, Rezbin, Akaiin, tldk., Water Project PH, and AlgaTrop. The program opened with welcome messages led by Mr. Carlo Calimon, President and Co-Founder of SUV, followed by pitching proper guidelines and startup introductions facilitated by the SUV team. DG Reggie Nolido congratulated the participating startups and shared that he strongly supports the program, recalling that he was once a startup entrepreneur himself. Pres. Eddie Galvez encouraged the founders to continue building impactful and sustainable solutions for their communities, while IPP Keith Harrison expressed pride in seeing the program he initiated continue to grow and create opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to all participating startups, followed by closing remarks from IP Chris Ferareza, who encouraged the innovators to continue collaborating and creating meaningful impact through their ventures. The success of HATCH Cohort 2 would not have been possible without the dedication and guidance of the HATCH Committee led by Bom Villatuya, together with IP Chris Ferareza, Dir. Paolo Turno, and Carlos Prieto, who helped screen and evaluate the participating startups prior to their inclusion in the program. The Club also extends its appreciation to the mentors and supporters who generously shared their time and expertise throughout the incubation journey, namely Bom Villatuya, IP Chris Ferareza, IPP Keith Harrison, PE Leo De Leon, Dir. Paolo Turno, Dir. Roger Collantes, Dir. Andy Mañalac, and Jamian Lai. Their collective efforts helped create a meaningful learning experience for the participating entrepreneurs as they continue to develop solutions that aim to create positive social impact.

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Over the years, RC Makati has built a strong partnership with the Sisters of Mary in Silang, Cavite through various transformative programs and community initiatives for its students. From selecting scholars for the Club’s AI Academy, to conducting mental health awareness activities and environmental projects such as tree planting, RC Makati has continued to support the holistic development and well-being of the youth under the care of the institution. Continuing this commitment to service, RC Makati conducted a Dental Mission last May 17 aimed at promoting oral health awareness and providing accessible dental care services to underserved students. The project was made possible through the partnership with the dedicated volunteer dentists of CEU Dentistry Batch ’87 led by Dra. Encarnacion “Keds” Cancio, through the initiative and coordination of Rtn. Wash Lou. The mission aimed to supplement the existing healthcare support being provided to the students of both Girlstown and Boystown by helping address the dental needs of the large student population, allowing more students to receive timely oral healthcare services and treatment. A total of 20 volunteer dentists and support personnel participated in the whole-day mission, rendering free dental cleaning, oral assessment, and restorative dental procedures such as fillings (“pasta”) to approximately 206 students. Despite the physically demanding and continuous ten-hour operation, the volunteers tirelessly attended to every patient with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care. The Club supported the mission by sponsoring the dental supplies used during the procedures, as well as the transportation service for the volunteer dentists and staff. Meanwhile, the meals of the volunteers throughout the activity were generously sponsored by the Sisters of Mary community. The day began early as Rotarians, volunteers, and dental teams departed from Manila before dawn to ensure the timely setup of equipment and preparation of the treatment area. Upon arrival, the volunteers were warmly welcomed by the Sisters of Mary community led by Sr. Mylene Arambulo. Before the dental procedures commenced, a short opening program was held, moderated by one of the graduates of the RCM AI Academy Program — a meaningful representation of how Rotary’s programs continue to empower the youth in various ways. Pres. Eddie Galvez personally thanked the volunteer dentists and partners for their generosity and service, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in transforming lives through healthcare missions. He also expressed the Club’s hope for continued partnerships in future medical and dental outreach initiatives. Dir. Michael Hsu also gave a short message expressing appreciation to the volunteer dentists and everyone who helped make the Dental Mission possible. Also present during the mission were IPP Keith Harrison; Rtns. Boy Arteche, Johnny and Christina Ang and their children; Wash and Pizza Lou; and PP Charlie Rufino with his son, Jayvee, and sister-in-law, Viol Cojuangco, who also visited the mission site in support of the initiative. Beyond the dental services rendered, the mission became a meaningful experience of fellowship and compassion. As a token of appreciation, the students personally prepared handmade thank-you cards for the volunteer dentists and Rotary members, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for the care and kindness extended to them throughout the mission. The Club also distributed locally made products including freshly baked cookies and bread made by the Sisters of Mary community to the volunteer dentists — simple but heartfelt gifts showcasing the talents and livelihood programs of the students. In addition, Rtn. Wash Lou and Pizza Lou gave Bangkok Tamarind treats for both the volunteers and the Sisters of Mary community. The atmosphere throughout the day was filled not only with busy dental procedures and clinical work, but also with smiles, gratitude, and renewed hope. For many students, the mission meant relief from discomfort and the opportunity to receive quality dental care they otherwise may not have easily accessed.

When a project is truly impactful, it deserves continued support and replication in more communities. Such is the case for the Save Our Reefs project of RC Makati, which was first initiated by PP Peter Manzano in 2021 in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur with an initial deployment of 200 reef buds. Over the years, the project continued to grow, with more than 400 reef buds now installed in the area. A second site was later established in Padre Burgos, Quezon through the initiative of Ferdie Ordoveza, where another 100 reef buds were deployed. This year, the project reached San Juan, La Union — widely known as the surfing capital of the Philippines — with the goal of helping regenerate marine biodiversity and contribute to the long-term protection of its coastal ecosystem. On May 13, a delegation from RC Makati led by Pres. Eddie Galvez, together with Toffy Concepcion, PE/Dir. Chris Ferareza, IPP Keith Harrison, George Haxton, Dir. Andy Manalac, Dir. CB Rivilla, and Winston Uy, found themselves along the shores of San Juan — not to surf, but for the official launch of the newest Save Our Reefs site. The program began with a blessing led by Pastor Arnold Cari, followed by the unveiling of the Save Our Reefs marker in San Juan, La Union. After a group photo opportunity at the shoreline, the participants proceeded to Hinabi Reserve, a new development by Havitas co-founded by Dir. Andy Manalac, which hosted the formal launch program. During the short program, Pres. Eddie Galvez underscored the importance of collaboration in bringing the environmental project to life in La Union. Winston Uy, who also represented Universal Leaf Philippines Inc., co-funders of the Reef Buds project in San Juan, expressed his appreciation for being part of an initiative that supports the regeneration of marine life in one of La Union’s prime tourist destinations. For his part, RC San Juan Pres. Lionel Darmon thanked the Club for choosing San Juan as the newest site of the project and for the opportunity to partner in the meaningful environmental initiative. Meanwhile, San Juan Mayor Mariquita Ortega expressed her appreciation to the Rotary Club of Makati, describing the project as an investment to ensure that future generations will continue to experience the beauty of a living ocean. The formal program concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between RC Makati, Universal Leaf Philippines Inc., RC San Juan, and the Local Government of San Juan, La Union for the deployment of an initial 100 reef buds in San Juan. It was not all work for the RC Makati members who arrived a day earlier, as the delegation was warmly hosted by Winston Uy for a fellowship dinner at his beach house in Thunderbird Resorts. Beyond tourism and surfing, RC Makati hopes San Juan will also become recognized for its commitment to marine conservation and sustainable environmental initiatives.

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