RC Makati, in partnership with P&A Grant Thornton, held a pivotal Sustainability Forum titled “Unwrapping Change: Transforming the Philippines from its Plastic Legacy Through EPR” on June 20, 2024. The event took place at the P&A Grant Thornton office in Makati and was also broadcast live via Microsoft Teams, attracting a diverse audience committed to environmental sustainability. The Philippines faces a critical issue with plastic pollution, generating an alarming 2.7 million tons of plastic waste annually. A significant portion of this waste ends up in landfills and various water bodies, contributing to severe environmental degradation. The forum aimed to address this pressing issue by exploring Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) as a strategic solution. The program began with an invocation led by Dir. Bom Villatuya, followed by messages from RC Makati Pres. Bing Matoto and Romualdo V. Murcia, Chairman and Managing Partner of P&A Grant Thornton. Keynote speaker Rina Neoh, Secretary General of the ESG Association of Malaysia, introduced by her spouse, Rtn. Roger Collantes, shared initiatives to reduce plastic waste. She urged Filipino companies to deploy plastic deposit machines, where the public can recycle plastic waste for monetary rewards or coins. Neoh also emphasized the need for the Philippine government to provide grants to companies selling eco-friendly products, noting that Malaysia has facilitated such transitions with grants for exhibition and market development. Atty. Jonas Leones, DENR Undersecretary, discussed recycling compliance data under EPR, which requires companies to report on the efficiency of their recycling programs. Leones noted that 917 companies and 298 micro, small, and medium enterprises have submitted their reports. The DENR expects increased investments in recycling technologies and community training programs by 2034, along with more aggressive public campaigns against single-use plastics by 2040. Following the resource speakers, a panel discussion moderated by Chris Ferareza, incoming Director and Vice President of RC Makati, and Chief Sustainability Officer and Partner for Advisory Services and Sustainability Leader of P&A Grant Thornton, featured several experts. Panelists included Commissioner Crispian Lao, Chairman of the National Solid Waste Management Commission and Founding President of PARMS; Elvin Ian Uy, Executive Director of the Philippine Business for Social Progress; Rudi Ramin, Commercial Director of PCX; Erica Cardoso, Managing Director of Evergreen Labs Philippines; Stanley Siahetiong, Energy Transition Manager of Shell Pilipinas Corporation; and representatives from the DENR Environmental Management Bureau, Engr. Esperanza Sajul and Atty. Ivy De Pedro. The panelists emphasized the need for collaboration and holistic action to change the Philippines’ plastic legacy. The forum concluded with the closing remarks of PE Keith Harrison, who highlighted the importance of changing mindsets about plastic waste management and sustainability through education. The event saw active participation, with over 250 online attendees and more than 40 in-person participants, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices.

The Food Share Program (FSP) stands as a collaborative initiative aimed at securing food access for vulnerable communities through partnerships involving local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community representatives. Targeting populations such as low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, the FSP redistributes surplus food from local sources to designated beneficiaries, facilitated by meticulous logistics overseen by LGUs. This program not only addresses immediate food insecurity but also fosters sustainability by promoting local food production and reducing waste through educational initiatives. Regular monitoring and evaluation ensure the program’s efficacy, guiding ongoing improvements based on feedback from stakeholders, thereby reinforcing its role in community development and resilience. On June 26, 2024, the RC Makati joined forces with Kabisig ng Kalahi, the Tanay LGU, and DSWD Region IV-A to inaugurate the Food Share Program at the Tanay Municipal Extension in Brgy. Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal. This collaborative initiative aims to tackle food insecurity by fostering partnerships between local government units (LGUs), NGOs, and community representatives, targeting vulnerable populations such as low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Romeo B. Cruz, the Municipal Agriculture Officer, setting a tone of camaraderie and purpose. Vicky Wieneke, President of Kabisig ng Kalahi, Inc., provided an insightful overview of the program’s objectives, highlighting its potential impact on the community’s well-being. Inspirational speeches followed from esteemed guests, including Hon. Rafael A. Tanjuatco, Municipal Mayor; PP Freddie Borromeo, Chairman of the Committee on Family, Health & Nutritional Program; Dir. Neil Makasiar; Dir. Brian Liu; Rtn. Boy Arteche; and Ms. Mylah Gatchalian, Assistant Regional Director for Operations, DSWD-Region IV-A. Part of the program was the signing of the Kasunduan, a formal commitment by all partners to uphold and support the Food Share Program. This was accompanied by the distribution of initial rice rations to 30 family representatives, each receiving 15 kilograms of rice. Over the next six months, these families will benefit from a total of 60 kilograms of rice, ensuring sustained support during scheduled distributions and additional contributions. Ann Jojo Borromeo and Ann Camille Makasiar also attended. Ms. Brecia Monje, OIC – MSWDO, delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the program’s community-centric approach and its potential to uplift local livelihoods. A group photo session captured the spirit of collaboration among partners and beneficiaries, highlighting a shared commitment to building a resilient and self-sufficient community. The ceremonial launch concluded with a convivial lunch hosted by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo at Rambulls Tanay, reinforcing bonds and celebrating the promising start of a program dedicated to enhancing food security and promoting sustainable community development.

Read more: https://tribune.net.ph/2024/07/09/my-rotary-journey-as-club-president

The Rotary Club of Makati, driven by its mission to instill hope and foster positive change, welcomed 80 participants from Sisters of Mary’s Boystown in Silang Cavite with open arms. This collaborative effort between RC Makati and the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF) marked another significant step in promoting mental wellness among underprivileged youth through NGF’s SuPEER Heroes of the Millennium peer support training program. Spanning two weekends on June 8-9 and 15-16, the program unfolded at the Sisters of Mary Boystown campus, where 73 boys and 7 teachers engaged in a transformative 4-day training session led by licensed mental health professionals. The comprehensive curriculum included essential topics such as Mindfulness Therapy, Resilience, Basic Communication Skills, and Self-Care until eventually progressing onwards an Intermediate level of training comprised of Basic Helping Skills, Love Languages, and Mental Health First Aid. These modules were designed not only to equip participants with practical skills but also to empower them to be effective sources of support for their peers facing mental and emotional challenges. The program kicked off on June 8th with a heartfelt opening prayer led by Sister Mylene, Director of Sisters of Mary Schools. This was followed by warm words of welcome from Pres. Bing Matoto, PP Charlie Rufino, Rtn. Boy Arteche, and an inspiring keynote address by PE Keith Harrison. Also present were Jean Goulbourn, President, and Founder of NGF, Rachel Harrison, and Chinit Rufino. Throughout the training, participants actively engaged in discussions, practical exercises, and role-playing scenarios aimed at reinforcing their learning and enhancing their ability to provide compassionate peer support. Interactive sessions included Q&A portions with prizes to encourage participation and foster an environment where students felt safe to express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. The culminating day of the program was a testament to the impact of the training, as students eloquently expressed their gratitude through speeches and heartfelt poetry. The highlight of the day was a moving performance by the Boystown Choir, which brought tears to the eyes of attendees. As a gesture of appreciation, students distributed handwritten Thank You cards and even Father’s Day cards to facilitators, Pres. Bing and CoS Ron Dotaro. Members of the Rotaract Club of Makati, led by PE Hira Hermoso, alongside PP Mark Gil Cato, PP Elena Gana, PP AJ Sembrano, PN Jover Acebuche, Dir. Karylle Dotaro, and Rtr. Martin Revilla also joined in the closing festivities.

Imagine this from your perspective: you are a grade school student studying in an upland sitio. Your only source of water is a 1.5-kilometer descent to fetch water, carrying a gallon back on uneven terrain, just so you can take a bath and be ready for school. By the time you are prepared for school, you might already be too exhausted to concentrate and fully engage in your studies. This scenario was the daily drudgery for the students of Simanta Elementary School. But no more. Thanks to a collaborative effort between the RC Makati and the RC Zamboanga City West (RCZCW), the community now has access to clean water right in their neighborhood. June 12, Independence Day, was no holiday for the RC Makati delegation. Led by Pres. Bing Matoto, PDG Pepz Bengzon, and PP Roland Young, they traveled to Zamboanga City to officially turn over this water system to the community. Dir. Neil & Camille Makasiar, natives of Zamboanga, were already there days prior to the turnover. Upon arrival at the airport, the team was met by RCZCW members led by Pres. Cliff Ing and PDG James Makasiar, father of Dir. Neil. The team then traveled over one and a half hours through steep and rough roads to reach Simanta Elementary School in Brgy. Calabasa. Immediately, a short program started with messages shared by Pres. Bing, Pres. Cliff, and SEC Chairman Emil Aquino, himself a past president of RCZCW. Messages were also delivered by the school heads and the barangay captain. Following the speeches, the team formally inaugurated the water system with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The project, which was conceived in the first quarter of the Rotary year, involved the development of a water source, a deep well about 1.5 kilometers down. It included the construction of a concrete well, where water will be delivered by pumping from the well to the school area through a 1.5 km transmission with a 1.5-inch PVC pipeline. The water system is powered by a 5KW solar energy system with a 5HP submersible pump to bring the water to the school and includes the construction of an overhead tank at the school premises to ensure a steady supply of water. Additionally, the system features a filtration tank that purifies water from the river before storing it in two large containers, with the excess water flowing back through pipes to service over 200 households. The total project cost of P700,000 was equally shared by both clubs with RCZCW Sec/PP Nanding Yu as the project lead. The program didn't end there. The students of Simanta Elementary School received bags and school supplies, while their parents were each given a bag of rice. The initiative also included a medical mission to check the health condition of the community and provide circumcision services for the youth. The completion of this water project marks a significant milestone in improving the quality of life for the students and the wider community. By providing a nearby, reliable source of clean water, the children of Simanta Elementary School can now focus on their education, no longer burdened by the exhausting task of fetching water. This project exemplifies Rotary's commitment to making a tangible impact on communities in need. Addressing such a fundamental necessity as access to clean water empowers these young learners with better health and a brighter future. The collaboration between RCM and RCZCW showcases the power of Rotary clubs working together to bring about meaningful change, one community at a time.

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The Rotary International Convention, a significant event in the Rotary calendar, returned to Southeast Asia at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore from May 26 to 29. This marked a triumphant return after a 12-year hiatus from the time Bangkok hosted the event in 2012. The last time the convention was held in Asia was in 2016 in Seoul, Korea. Given the proximity to Manila, this was an opportunity that RC Makati members and Anns, demonstrating their active involvement and commitment to Rotary International, could not afford to miss. A 22-man delegation from RC Makati, led by Pres. Bing Matoto, traveled to Singapore to join the world's largest Rotary event this year. Accompanying him were PP David & CP Mache Ackerman, PP Louie Aseoche, Roger & Rina Collantes, IPP Michael & Papat Escaler, PN Eddie Galvez, PDG Sid & Tesha Garcia, PE Keith & Rachel Harrison, PP Bimbo & Queenie Mills, Manny & Rose Padiernos, PP Carlo & Cat Rufino, and Derrick & Jane Tan. The Club also sponsored the trip of CoS Ron Dotaro to provide him with his first convention experience, ensuring that he is well-prepared when Manila hosts the event in 2028. The RI Convention started a day early for IPP Michael & Papat Escaler on May 25 as they were honored as Arch Klumph Society (AKS) members at a pre-convention event. AKS is The Rotary Foundation’s highest tier of major donors, those who have contributed at least USD 250,000 during their lifetime. The Escalers join PP David & CP Mache Ackerman, the late PRID Paing & Mely Hechanova, and the late PDG Robert & Yvonne Kuan in the elite Society from RC Makati. Two other top-tier donors are credited to our Club’s AKS list—philanthropist Angelo King and banker Frederick Dy. Both are non-Rotarians who contributed to TRF on the invitation of PDG Robert. With most of the delegation arriving on the 25th, several members took the opportunity to explore the local culture and cuisine. They gathered to try the hawker center at Newton, one of the most popular hawker spots in Singapore, experiencing the vibrant food scene and fostering camaraderie within the delegation. The opening general session on the 26th, due to the venue's inability to accommodate over 11,000 attendees, was divided into two seatings, with assignments given prior to the convention. The delegation was split into two groups, one attending the morning session and the other in the afternoon. The opening session was a vibrant and engaging affair, starting with a Lion and Dragon dance presentation, followed by the acknowledgment of the nationalities present at the convention. The delegation's excitement was palpable when the Philippines was called. The session continued with a discussion on peace, featuring an interview with Graca Machel, an international advocate for women's and children's rights. The main speaker, RI Pres. Gordon McInally, delivered a thought-provoking talk on mental health. The session concluded with a captivating performance from Calum Scott, leaving the audience with a sense of anticipation for the rest of the convention. In the evening, the delegation accepted an invitation from RC Singapore for a fellowship meeting with their sister clubs in the Philippines at the presidential suite of the Marina Bay Sands. There, they exchanged pleasantries with IDG Dr. Yap Lip Kee and PP Perlita Tiro, as well as representatives from RC Vigan led by Pres. Glenda Rabino, over bottles of wine, while marveling at the splendid view of the bay. On the 27th, the day started super early for the delegation as the Asia-Philippine Breakfast began at 6:00 AM at Swissotel, the Stamford Hotel. Over 600 attendees, mostly Filipino Rotarians, were there to represent their respective clubs. Rotary dignitaries, including RI Pres. Gordon McInally and PE Stephanie Urchick, were present to share their time and message. The keynote speaker of the event was Hon. Heng Swee Keat, the Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore. The event ended with a special number from the Philippine College of Governors to promote the RI Convention in Manila in 2028. Right after breakfast, the delegation proceeded to the Marina Bay Sands for General Session 2 with the theme “Sharing Light with the World.” The session was full of impactful speeches, including one from RI General Secretary and CEO John Hewko on “Leadership in Turbulent Times,” a keynote on Trauma-Informed Care by Alexandra Rose, an RI Peace Fellow, a keynote on Mental Health and the Environment by Nacho Dean, a naturalist and professional explorer, and a keynote on Social Responsibility by Claire Chian, co-founder of the Banyan Group. In the afternoon, the delegation broke out into groups to maximize learning from the breakout session topics—E-business for the Youth, A Communication Toolkit for Your Rotary Project, and the Impact of “Companion” Clubs. In the evening, the delegation went to De Golden Spoon Seafood for a fellowship dinner organized by PP Carlo & Cat Rufino. The main attraction was the crab dishes, complemented by Tiger beer. It was like a mini-social event held in Singapore. The day ended with a night walk along Tiong Bahru. Day 3 of the Convention on the 28th started at 9 AM for the general session with the theme “Sharing Dreams in the World.” It began with an emotional valedictory address from RIPP Barry Rasin, the outgoing chairman of The Rotary Foundation. This was followed by several informative speeches on the End Polio campaign, giving attendees a closer look at how close we are to eradicating the disease. The keynote address for the session came from Jack Sim, Founder and Director of the World Toilet Organization, who provided an entertaining take on how his organization contributes to environmental and sanitation efforts. In the afternoon, some members took time out from Rotary activities. PDG Sid & Tesha, PP Bimbo & Queenie, and Manny & Rose went for a factory tour of Thales, the world’s premier private data security provider. Meanwhile, first-time attendees, including Pres. Bing, PP Louie, Roger, with PE Keith, made the most of the convention experience by attending breakout sessions on “Trauma and Mental Wellness in Times of Crisis” and “Cultivating a Lifelong Love.” In the evening, the Rotary affair did not end for Pres. Bing and PP Louie as they attended the Longevity Dividend seminar hosted by the Standard Chartered Bank and RC Makati McKinley at the Standard Chartered Building in Orchard Road. The last day of the Convention on the 29th had a more relaxed pace. The delegates took the time to visit the House of Friendship in the morning, and after a quick early lunch, they showed their support by attending a breakout session hosted by RCM McKinley entitled “Small Clubs, Big Projects.” The closing session of the Convention was already in a celebratory mood, with attendees dancing to the groove of “YMCA” before the formal closing ceremony. The enjoyment continued with a performance from Heather McInally, spouse of RIP Gordon, accompanied by professional singer Michael Lapina. The highlights of the event were the messages from RIPE Stephanie and the closing remarks of RIP Gordon. The Convention concluded with entertainment from the Red Hot Chili Pipers with their bagpipes playing some contemporary songs. In the evening, PE Keith attended the RC Singapore meeting at the Tanglin Club where he met numerous Rotary dignitaries, while Pres. Bing and PP Louie joined the dinner hosted by Roger Collantes at the Holy Crab at the old Capitol Movie compound to celebrate CoS Ron’s birthday. The Rotary Convention served as a fitting platform to enrich one’s Rotary experience and to have a deeper understanding and appreciation of what it is to be a Rotarian. It likewise served to foster camaraderie among club members, and networking with colleagues from other Rotary clubs in the world. Most of the RCM delegates who were first time RI Convention attendees left Singapore with a better affection for what Rotary does in the global community.

RC Makati showcased its steadfast dedication to humanitarian efforts and disaster response by promptly aiding typhoon victims in Mauban, Quezon. The Bangon Mauban, Aghon Relief Mission, organized in collaboration with RC Lucena Central, aimed to deliver critical support to those impacted by Typhoon Aghon. Upon receiving an urgent request from PP Marvin Villamin, Deputy District Governor of Area 3 of the Province of Quezon and Marinduque, RC Makati's Disaster Response committee quickly sprang into action. Villamin provided real-time updates on Mauban's condition and outlined the immediate needs of the typhoon-affected residents. Understanding the dire need for food supplies, the committee allocated PHP 150,000 to procure 300 food packs. These packs were essential in providing nourishment to the affected families in Mauban. The distribution was efficiently managed by the dedicated team of RC Lucena Central. On June 1, Dir. Porsche Peña represented RC Makati and joined forces with RC Lucena Central to distribute the food bags to the families in need in Mauban. This initiative highlights RC Makati's ongoing commitment to supporting communities in crisis. Their rapid response and cooperative efforts underscore the club's dedication to humanitarian service and effective disaster relief. This marks another significant relief operation for RC Makati, emphasizing their dedication to assisting communities in times of need. Through the Bangon Mauban, Aghon Relief Mission, RC Makati and RC Lucena Central not only provided immediate aid but also brought hope and support to those affected by the calamity.

The New Gen community of District 3830 is flourishing, as demonstrated by the successful ICON 2024 Interact Convention held on June 1, 2024, at Poblacion National High School in Muntinlupa City. The event, themed “Showcasing Leadership and Talents like an Icon,” was hosted by RC Alabang-Daang Hari and RAC San Beda College Alabang, bringing together the eight active Interact Clubs in District 3830. Among the youth leaders present were officers and members of the Interact Club of Gen. Pio Del Pilar National High School, sponsored by RC Makati. The attendees included Pres. Mikhaylla Jamias, Xian Guillermo, Daisyre Bolaños, Symon Rodrick, Jhayzielle Pearl Jamias, Joanna Figuerroa, Sammuelle Chavez, Gianna Navales, Owen Cayanan, Cathlyne Iglesia, Merie Austria, and their new club adviser, Mrs. Arlene Okuma. The convention began with the standard protocol: an invocation, the national anthem, a call to order, acknowledgment of guests, and a warm-up activity led by RAC San Beda College Alabang. TGP Heaven Penaflorida of RC Makati Bel-Air opened the program with a session on Personality Development, followed by Mr. Carlos Flores, Admission Coordinator of San Beda College Alabang, who spoke on Career Orientation. PP Marge Lamberte of RC Paranaque Metro provided an overview of the Rotary world, detailing the roles and connections between Interact, Rotaract, and Rotary. Lastly, DGN Reggie Nolido delivered an inspiring talk on Servant Leadership. Mikhaylla Jamias shared her experience, highlighting how the workshop allowed participants to learn through their chosen activities and later perform them. She expressed gratitude to RC Makati for the opportunity to attend such a beneficial workshop. The workshop included lessons on basic techniques for singing, dancing, and acting. Participants showcased theater songs in the singing segment, while the dancing part emphasized open acting dancing. The event was filled with opportunities for learning and personal growth. Each guest speaker shared valuable insights, enriching the overall experience. Before the event concluded, there was a photo op session to capture the memorable moments shared by all. This successful event highlights the vitality of District 3830's New Gen community. Through the ICON 2024 Interact Convention, youth leaders were able to develop their leadership skills, showcase their talents, and strengthen their connections within the Interact community.

On May 30, RC Makati actively participated in a significant outreach project organized by the Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ) in Rosario, Cavite. This initiative was part of the celebration commemorating the 44th Anniversary of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority – Cavite Economic Zone (PEZA-CEZ). The project was a collaborative effort between RC Makati and the University of the Philippines Association (UPAA). RC Makati delegates, DGN Reggie Nolido and baby Rotarian Michael Hsu, were warmly welcomed by the Cavite Economic Zone administrator, Atty. Norma Tañag, and Ms. Gabby Aranton, who represented her father, Mr. Robert Aranton, the UPAA President, who initially requested the club’s support for this mission. The event aimed to provide free medical and dental services to nearly 300 zone workers and their dependents from various CEZ enterprises. The club generously donated a variety of medicines and books from their Books Across the Seas (BATS) Program to support this cause. The medical and dental assistance was made possible by volunteer doctors from the 402nd Community Defense Center (CDC) Enlisted Reservist in Cavite, whose dedication was instrumental in the success of the mission. This collaboration between RC Makati and UPAA marks the second partnership between the two organizations, following their successful medical-dental mission and book donation event in Barangay Mayondon, Los Baños, Laguna, on April 28.

The prestigious Golf Tournament of Champions was held on May 24, 2024, at the picturesque Forest Hills Golf and Country Club. This much-anticipated event brought together some of the finest golfers, showcasing exceptional talent and fostering a spirit of camaraderie among participants. The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including Pres. Bing Matoto, PDG Pepz Bengzon, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, PE Keith Harrison, DGN Reggie Nolido, Leo De Leon, Philip Mallari and Andrew Prieto. The competition was fierce, and several participants distinguished themselves with remarkable performances. Philip Mallari received the prize for Class A second runner-up with a commendable 30 points, while PDG Pepz Bengzon was awarded the prize for Class A first runner-up, also scoring 30 points. In the team category, RC Parañaque Poblacion emerged victorious with 130 points, followed closely by RC Makati West with 128 points, RC Parañaque East with 126 points, and RC Makati securing the 4th runner-up position with 111 points.