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Severe Tropical Storm Kristine brought extensive devastation across 17 regions in the Philippines, leaving approximately 7.1 million people affected, with a tragic trail of destruction. Over 935,000 individuals sought refuge in evacuation centers or found temporary shelter with relatives or friends as Kristine damaged more than 83,000 houses and destroyed 61,746 hectares of crops. This catastrophe severely impacted transportation and communication networks, making it the deadliest cyclone to hit the country this year. In response, RC Makati launched a significant relief operation spearheaded by the club’s disaster relief committee, led by committee chair Dir. Chris Ferareza and overseen by Dir. Johnny Ang. This timely initiative extended crucial support to over 1,700 families—benefiting at least 5,300 individuals—across seven provinces hit hardest by the storm. Despite the challenges posed by impassable roads, intermittent communications, and power outages, the committee maintained close contact with local partners in the affected areas to coordinate aid. The RC Makati warehouse was stocked with relief supplies, with Rotaractors led by Pres. Hira Hermoso, conducting a large-scale repacking effort on October 24 to ensure swift delivery to those in need. October 25 marked the beginning of hands-on relief efforts. With the first signs of sunshine, CoS Ron Dotaro traveled to Bauan, Batangas, where he distributed around 160 mats and blankets to families sheltered at the local evacuation center in partnership with RC Downtown Batangas. Additionally, RC Makati provided meals to 150 UPLB students stranded on campus due to limited access to resources, including water, electricity, and transportation, with the support of UPSILON and Sigma Delta Phi through our Rotaractor Karylle. On the same day, RC Makati partnered with RC Tuguegarao, led by Pres. Arnel Taguinod, to deliver relief goods to 500 families in two affected areas in Cagayan. The relief efforts continued on October 26, when PDG Pepz Bengzon and CoS Ron embarked on a five-hour journey to Lingayen. In partnership with RC Lingayen, led by Pres. Nikhil Chandra Dey, they distributed 140 mats and blankets to families in the flood-ravaged Aplaya Resettlement near Lingayen Gulf. Meanwhile, Dir. Chris Ferareza and PE Eddie Galvez headed to Bay, Laguna, where, in partnership with RC Bay, led by Pres. Chea Violanta, they distributed mats, blankets, and food packs to over 300 families still residing in evacuation centers. Later that day, Rotaractors gathered again at the Clubhouse to prepare an additional 300 food packs for upcoming distributions. On October 27, Pres. Keith Harrison and PDG Pepz traveled to Isabela, delivering P60,000 to support RC Cauayan’s relief mission, which provided food packs to 200 families in need. By October 28, RC Makati was on its fourth day of relief missions, returning to Batangas—this time to assist Talisay, where recent landslides had claimed at least 20 lives. In response to an urgent request from Balibago Waterworks through PP Tito Panlilio, CoS Ron represented the Club for the delivery of 300 food packs and 50 sets of mats and blankets, which were distributed across three evacuation sites, including Balibago headquarters, now a temporary shelter for affected staff. Despite additional aid from various organizations, needs remain critical in Talisay, where many families face prolonged displacement due to destroyed homes in high-risk zones. On October 30, Pres. Keith traveled to Laurel, Batangas, where RC Makati distributed 80 sets of mats and blankets to families still in evacuation shelters, again in partnership with Balibago Waterworks. To date, RC Makati has provided relief goods valued at P474,000, reaching impacted communities in Batangas, Laguna, Pangasinan, Isabela, and Cagayan. This was made possible through nearly P900,000 in generous donations from RC Makati members Jun Abrazaldo, Rante Aguila, PP Fidel Alfonso, Felix Ang, Dir. Johnny Ang, Arthur Antonino, PP Louie Aseoche, George Barcelon, James Bosch, Gani Buenaflor, Chito Cantada, Malik Melvin Castelino, Philip Cea, Roger Collantes, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, Leo de Leon, Anonymous, Paquito Dizon, PP Michael Escaler, Aiai Galvez, PE Eddie Galvez, PDG Sid Garcia, Shav Halley, Michael Hsu, Pres. Keith Harrison, Harley Leano, Julian Lim, PP Rene Limjoco, Tony Lopez, Wash Lou, Dir. Neil Makasiar, Andy Mañalac, PP Peter Manzano, PP Conrad Marty, IPP Bing Matoto, PP Bimbo Mills, David Nithyananthan, DGE Reggie Nolido and PEs, Manny Padiernos, Jun Palafox, PP Tito Panlilio, PP Fred Pascual, Freddie Placino, Andrew Prieto, PDG Tony Quila, PP Charlie Rufino, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, Ronnie Siasoyco, Philip Soliven, Johnny Sy, Dir. Derrick Tan, Johnson Tan, Mike Toledo, Dir. Winston Uy, PP Eddie Yap, Sam Young and PP Roland Young. With Typhoon Leon hitting Northern Luzon and Typhoon Nica crossing Luzon just yesterday, RC Makati remains vigilant in monitoring these storms. The Club is prepared to deploy additional goods as needed, using ongoing member donations. Plans are also underway for post-rehabilitation initiatives, particularly in severely impacted regions such as Bicol, where many families will face an extended period of recovery. RC Makati remains steadfast in its mission to support Filipino communities through immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation efforts, demonstrating resilience and compassion in the face of adversity. (Note: “resilience” is an overused term, that already acquires a negative connotation, as it seems to excuse the government from fulfilling its task in preempting the readiness efforts in communities that will be affected by a typhoon.)

In a continued effort to promote environmental consciousness among the youth, RC Makati successfully sponsored two film showings of “A Thousand Forests” in collaboration with I.Syoot Multimedia. The screenings, held for nearly 3,000 students across two schools, highlighted the critical role forests play in combating climate change and the importance of multi-sectoral efforts in reforestation. A Thousand Forests is an initiative led by the University of the Philippines Los Baños - College of Forestry and Natural Resources (UPLB-CFNR) and supported by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The project aims to plant two million hectares of forests by 2050 through broad collaboration. On October 12, 2024, over 2,600 students from the Sisters of Mary School – Girlstown in Silang, Cavite, participated in the first film screening. Leading the event were Pres. Keith & First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP Charlie and Chinit Rufino, PP JunJun Dayrit, PP Louie Aseoche, and Rtn. CB Rivilla. The day began with an MTV recording of the song and dance performance “Let’s Build a Forest” by Girlstown students and six child actors—Sky, Rashid, Champ, Sunshine, Morena, and Ali—held in the school’s gymnasium. RC Makati members joined in the lively performance, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Following the MTV shoot, students, actors, and RC Makati members participated in a symbolic tree-planting activity at the Girlstown mini-forest. Afterward, the Sisters of Mary hosted a hearty lunch for all attendees. The afternoon continued with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the UPLB Climate Change Exhibit at the Girlstown library. UPLB-CFNR Dean Marlo Mendoza, guest speaker at the RC Makati’s Dinner Meeting last August 27, delivered opening remarks. The ceremony was also attended by Ms. Susan Afan, president of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation, UPLB Chancellor Jose and Ruth Camacho, and Sr. Elena Belarmino, General Superior of the Sisters of Mary. The film showing, which took place at the gymnasium, opened with a message from Pres. Keith Harrison, emphasizing the need for youth involvement in climate action. The students watched attentively as the film shed light on the importance of preserving and restoring forests for future generations. On October 17, 2024, the A Thousand Forests film was shown to 500 students from Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School, RC Makati’s adopted school in Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. The event was attended by Pres. Keith, FA Rachel, Past District Governor Tony Quila, District Governor-Elect Reggie Nolido, PP Louie Aseoche, Rtn. Rante Aguila, school principal Mrs. Juliet Melo, and selected teachers. Before the screening, Pres. Keith addressed the students, highlighting the significance of the film and the role they can play in environmental preservation. After the screening, students and teachers enjoyed a meal provided by the RC Makati, capping off an enlightening day focused on environmental education and awareness. The “A Thousand Forests” project has gained significant momentum since the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) during the RC Makati dinner meeting on August 27, where the club committed to sponsoring the initiative with Php 170,000. This environmental advocacy aims to inspire and empower the next generation to be active participants in the fight against climate change.

Halloween excitement filled the air at the Rotary Club of Makati Clubhouse on October 12, 2024, as RC Makati hosted the Pinoy Halloween Mamaw Party. Over 120 children from Barangay Guadalupe Viejo joined the festivities, showcasing their creativity by donning costumes inspired by Filipino mythical creatures and superheroes. The event, a vibrant mix of culture and fun, was a hit with kids aged 3 to 12, who immersed themselves in a world of folklore and fantasy. The Rotary Community Corps (RCC) Bukluran played a key role in making this event a success, ensuring that the children could attend. Brgy. Chairman Hein Angeles and his council were also acknowledged for providing essential amenities, including tables, chairs, and tents, contributing to the comfort of all attendees. The Prodigious team, led by Ann Sue Ann Nolido of Prodigious Philippines, masterfully managed the event’s program, offering a variety of engaging activities, games, and entertainment. They also generously sponsored loot bags, prizes, and McDonald’s meals, making the experience even more enjoyable for the kids and their families. A surprise visit from Grimace, McDonald’s beloved mascot, added sparking joy among the young attendees with his playful antics. RC Makati members, led by Pres. Keith Harrison and First Ann Rachel, arrived in high spirits after wrapping up a service project in Silang, Cavite. District Governor-Elect Reggie Nolido and Sue Ann, PP JunJun Dayrit and spouse Cecille, along with their grandchildren Pio and Marga, were among the notable attendees. The youth wing, Rotaract Club of Makati, under the leadership of Pres. Hira Hermoso together with PP Aj Sembrano, Princess Pol and Calvin Piñero, were also actively involved, ensuring the event was memorable for everyone. A special surprise marked the occasion as Ann Sue was treated to an early birthday celebration. Attendees joined in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” as she was presented with a cake, highlighting her continued dedication to the community. This celebration marked the third year that Prodigious Philippines, led by Ann Sue Ann, has partnered with RC Makati to host the Halloween Party, which has now become her personal tradition of giving back during her birthday month. The event concluded with RC Makati hosting an early dinner for the Prodigious team, sealing another successful Halloween Party with laughter, community spirit, and memories that will linger long after the costumes were put away.

RC Makati has once again cemented its position as a leader in Rotary, receiving the prestigious “Best of the Best Award” for Rotary Year 2023-24 under the exemplary leadership of IPP Bing Matoto. The award was presented during the District Awards Night, held at the Enderun Tent, BGC, on October 15. The event, themed “Mission Accomplished: Top Guns on Parade”, celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments of clubs across District 3830 under the guidance of IPDG Jay Tambunting. The “Best of the Best Award” is the highest distinction a Rotary club can achieve in the district, recognizing outstanding performance in key areas such as service projects, membership growth, and contributions to The Rotary Foundation (TRF). Out of 130 clubs in the district, only nine earned this prestigious recognition, placing RC Makati among the most distinguished clubs in Rotary. In addition to this top honor, RC Makati was also recognized as the No. 1 Club in the District for per Capita Annual Fund giving to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. While IPP Bing Matoto was unable to attend the ceremony due to personal travel, Pres. Keith Harrison, along with PDG Pepz Bengzon, PP Louie Aseoche, PP JunJun Dayrit, VP Chris Ferareza, and Dir. Andy Mañalac, graciously accepted the awards on his behalf. Here is the list of awards received by RC Makati: • Outstanding Membership Achievement Award: Membership Retention – for achieving the district goal of retaining at least 90% of existing members. • Outstanding Club in Administration – for exemplary performance in club administration, completing all mandatory Rotary International and district requirements, and efficiently operating to provide service to its communities while retaining members and developing leaders. • Distinguished Membership Achievement Award: Club Champion-Innovative Clubs – for co-chartering Rotary Club of Aim, contributing to the global goal of creating new, innovative clubs. • Exemplary Membership Achievement Award: Creating Hope, Great at 8+ – for recruiting and retaining at least eight new members, significantly contributing to club growth. • Exemplary Club Recognition – for achieving the Rotary Citation for RY 2023-24, demonstrating compliance with Rotary’s strategic priorities. • Outstanding Membership Achievement Award: Membership Sponsorship Category – for having one of the highest numbers of members sponsoring new members, fostering inclusivity. • Top 5 in Contributions to the Annual Fund during RY 2023-24. • Top 5 in Per Capita Contributions to the Annual Fund during RY 2023-24. • Top 5 in Contributions to the PolioPlus Fund during RY 2023-24. • $1,500 PolioPlus Club during RY 2023-24. • US$100 Average Giving, 100% Member Participation. • US$100 Per Capita, 100% Member Participation. • Harry Ruggles Society Achievement Award – for fulfilling the pledge to recruit and retain at least one new member, awarded to TGP Bing Matoto, PP Cesar Campos, IPP Michael Escaler, James Julian Lim, Neil Makasiar, DGN Reggie Nolido, and Porsche Peña.

The Arceemak Shooters gathered at the Southern Police District Headquarters Shooting Range in Taguig City on Saturday, October 5, 2024 for a day of thrilling competition and camaraderie. The event, organized by Oliver Buenaflor, son of Rtn. Gani Buenaflor, brought together a diverse group of enthusiasts who share a passion for precision shooting. The day was filled with competitive matches, teamwork, and friendly banter, creating an exciting and memorable experience for all participants. The event drew an enthusiastic group of 15 participants, including family members and guests, such as Dir. Boy Arteche, Gani Buenaflor with his son Oliver Buenaflor, and granddaughter Casey Buenaflor, Ed Rojas with his sons Francis and Gino Rojas, along with Ramon Garcia, George Haxton, Johnny Ang, Felix Yulo, Raymund Peralta, and guests Eric Salido, Donald Limcaco, and Bianca. The participants, ranging from seasoned shooters to newcomers, took part in various matches designed to test their accuracy and speed. The highlight of the event was the man-to-man shooting match, where shooters competed head-to-head. After an intense series of rounds, Oliver Buenaflor emerged as the champion. Following the individual matches, the event took a thrilling turn with a team competition: Team Arceemak versus the Team Range Officers in a 5 versus 5 showdowns. Representing Team Arceemak were Gani Buenaflor, George Haxton, Johnny Ang, Ramon Garcia, and the youngest participant, Casey Buenaflor. Despite the stiff competition from the Range Officers, Team Arceemak triumphed, demonstrating not only their shooting abilities but also their strong teamwork and coordination. The Arceemak Shooters, known for their love of gun shooting and friendly competition, thoroughly enjoyed the day’s activities. The success of the event, organized meticulously by Oliver Buenaflor, left the participants eagerly anticipating the next gathering.

October brings with it many celebrations, but perhaps none more iconic than Oktoberfest—a global tradition of enjoying beer and camaraderie. However, for Rotary, October holds even greater significance. This month marks World Polio Day on October 24, a day recognized by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about polio and the ongoing efforts to eradicate this crippling disease. As Rotary has been at the forefront of the fight against polio for decades, RC Makati decided to merge the festive spirit of Oktoberfest with a noble cause. On October 18, the 3rd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center was transformed into a Bavarian wonderland, where tradition met advocacy. Wooden benches were laid out, and waitresses donned classic beer maid attire, serving guests with flair. Live music filled the room, while the more than 200 attendees enjoyed some traditional German cuisine, and indulged in craft beers. The evening kicked off at 6:00 PM, with seven food and beer concessionaires—Engkanto Brewery, U!Bro, Mabdul Cerveza Artesana, Taza Manila, Julyan Hub, Yummy Dumplings, and Chad’s Cafe—welcoming guests with a variety of delicious offerings. While enjoying their meals, attendees watched a slideshow of RC Makati’s activities that highlighted the club’s ongoing service projects and community impact. At 6:30 PM, the formal program began, with Howie Calleja taking on the role of emcee, adding fun and energy to the night. A memorable moment was when Pres. Keith Harrison made his entrance, introduced by James Bond video clips played during the Induction. In his message, Pres. Keith welcomed the attendees and thanked them for their support. In a symbolic gesture, he wore a white coat and bow tie, but in a “superhero” moment, he removed them to reveal an End Polio Now shirt beneath, emphasizing the importance of the night’s cause and Rotary’s enduring fight against polio. Next on stage was PE Eddie Galvez, chairman of the Oktoberfest committee, who took the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of his committee members—Anton Cabrera, Howie Calleja, Pres. Keith Harrison, CB Rivilla, Paolo Turno, and Bom Villatuya—for ensuring the event’s success. He also expressed gratitude to the event sponsors, including his own GG&A Club Shares, as well as generous contributions from club members Felix Ang, Universal Leaf Philippines Inc. through Dir. Winston Uy, Anthony Jude “AJ” Violago, and Balibago Waterworks through PP Tito Panlilio. Since there will be no Friday Night Lights event hosted by birthday celebrants this month, the October and November birthday celebrants were recognized during Oktoberfest. Celebrants included PP Carlo Rufino, James Bosch, Arman Cataga, PP Eddie Yap, PP Roger Davis, Patrick Parungao, Roger Collantes, Roger Sarmiento, Carlo Ybañez, Tony Tan, Felix Ang, Hiro Oba, Jay Bernardo, Sam Young, Andrew Prieto, David Aboitiz, CB Rivilla, Ador Hizon, Jojo Binay, Michael Hsu, Dir. Johnnu Ang, VP/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Mark Gan, and Ed Rojas. These celebrants also generously contributed to cover the cost of styling the event, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere. Of course, Oktoberfest wouldn’t be complete without entertaining games, including the crowd-favorite Beer-drinking contest, which was held during every entertainment break. Among the winners were DGE Reggie Nolido, and others who took home bragging rights. The event also featured exciting raffles, with prizes such as Polio Bears, Oktoberfest mugs, and bottles of Macallan. Although there was no formal attire competition, Rtn. Shav Haley stood out with his Bavarian-inspired outfit. The rest of the night was filled with jamming and dancing to the live music of Ang Bagong Luto ni Enriquez and Stank Tank featuring Yanni Diola, keeping the energy high and spirits lifted. D3830 Governor Prescy Yulo dropped by later that evening and shared the dance floor a bit to show her support to the event. It was truly a night of fun, music, camaraderie, and giving back to the community, as RC Makati’s Oktoberfest for End Polio Now brought everyone together for a meaningful cause.

RC Makati continues its mission of community service with the launch of the Book Reading Program for children residing in Manila South Cemetery. Held on October 13, 2024, this initiative reflects RC Makati’s dedication to providing education, values formation, and child rights protection for vulnerable youth in the area. The event was graced by Pres. Keith Harrison, First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP JunJun Dayrit, Dir. Boy Arteche and Dir. Derrick Tan. In partnership with St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, this program is part of the parish’s ongoing advocacy to evangelize, teach moral values, and safeguard children’s rights. The Social Service and Development Ministry of the parish reached out to RC Makati for sponsorship, recognizing their shared vision of community outreach and support. The collaboration offers children a safe space to learn, reflect, and grow, all while raising awareness about their rights and providing the resources necessary for their protection and development. This year’s Book Reading Program significantly expanded its reach, with RC Makati sponsoring 60 children, ages 7-12, doubling the support from the previous Rotary Year under IPP Bing Matoto, when 30 children were sponsored. The program features 10 weekly book reading sessions, held every Sunday morning at the cemetery, engaging the children in enriching educational activities and meaningful interactions with the service team. The event also includes signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between RC Makati and St. Andrew the Apostle Parish. Representing the parish was Msgr. Gerry Santos, while Pres. Keith signed on behalf of RC Makati, with PP JunJun acting as a witness. Social Service Coordinator Ms. Norie Bordador also attended the ceremony, which solidified the club’s Php 150,000 sponsorship in support of the program’s operations and outreach efforts. In addition to financial support, RC Makati extended further assistance through the donation of three boxes of vegetable oil, courtesy of Rtn. Glenn and Christine Gatuslao. These supplies will aid in preparing meals for the children throughout the 10-week program, ensuring that their nutritional needs are met while they engage in educational activities. The event concluded with a fellowship gathering hosted by Dir. Derrick Tan at St. Giles Hotel. Attendees enjoyed the hotel’s famous laksa, closing the day on a note of camaraderie and shared purpose.

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Despite the rainy morning on Sunday, October 6, RC Makati successfully launched its partnership with Bolanday Cooking for Kids (BCFK) at the Quirino Grandstand. Originally planned for Luneta Park, the venue was relocated to accommodate the crowd and activities for the day’s event, “Fun & Art Sunday FnB sa Luneta”. This event, aimed at supporting children’s literacy and nutrition, gathered community members, students, and enthusiastic volunteers for a day filled with art, sports, and camaraderie. The event marked the beginning of a meaningful collaboration between RC Makati and Bolanday to implement the Food n’ Books (FnB) program, which focuses on supporting the educational and nutritional needs of underprivileged children. As children arrived from Tondo, Pres. Keith Harrison, First Ann Rachel Harrison, Dir. Boy Arteche, Rotarians CB Rivilla and Michael Hsu engaged them with a spontaneous storytelling session. This created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, setting the tone for the rest of the day. The formal program began with an opening prayer led by Kuya Marvin, a youth facilitator from Bolanday’s Educational Assistance Program (EAP), followed by the National Anthem. Ms. Ida Arreza, President of Bolanday, and Pres. Keith then shared words of welcome, expressing their enthusiasm for the partnership and shared vision for the FnB program’s impact. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to recognize RC Makati’s support, highlighting the partnership’s goal to foster holistic growth in children’s lives through nutrition and education. The event featured fun sports activities led by Pres. Keith and Kuya Lambert from Bolanday, where the children enjoyed badminton, baseball, and even boxing. The day concluded with a joyful feeding session, providing a nutritious meal for the children to enjoy together. Following the event, Pres. Keith and FA Rachel hosted a lunch for RC Makati members and staff at Ilustrado in Intramuros, celebrating the morning’s meaningful activities. This partnership, which began with a Memorandum of Agreement and a Php 200,000 donation to Bolanday on August 27, is a testament to RC Makati’s commitment to the FnB program and its mission to nurture children through consistent support in literacy and nutrition.

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On Saturday, September 21, 2024, the RI District 3830 Public Image Seminar was held at the MRCFI Building, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Makati and Makati San Antonio. This seminar aimed to provide Rotary clubs with effective strategies to enhance their public image, improve their presence across multiple platforms, and align their branding efforts with Rotary International standards. Attendees included Dir. Boy Arteche, PP Louie Aseoche, Juliam Lim, and Aaron Mempin, representing RC Makati as one of the host clubs. The RI District 3830 Public Image Seminar featured a distinguished lineup of resource speakers, each offering valuable insights on enhancing rotary’s public image. James Deakin, CEO of Deakin Digital Advertising, discussed the Importance of Public Image, emphasizing how it can elevate rotary’s reputation and community engagement. PDG Ann Lorenzana focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, stressing the need for rotary’s messaging to reflect its diverse membership. PIP Alejandro Tay provided practical strategies for Enhancing Facebook Campaigns to reach wider audiences. PP Allan Palacio shared best practices for People of Action Photos and Monthly Bulletins, highlighting effective ways to showcase rotary’s impact. Lastly, PIP Eiza Mendoza concluded with a detailed presentation on Public Image Executions, Awards, and Branding Issues, offering guidance on adhering to rotary’s branding guidelines and executing successful campaigns. This seminar provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to stay updated on the latest trends in public relations, social media, and branding, enabling rotary clubs to communicate their service efforts more effectively and strengthen their community connections.