In the heart of Makati, a community comes together to tackle an urgent issue: mental health. Rotary Club of Makati, in partnership with the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation, embarks on a transformative journey. Responding to President McInally's call to prioritize mental health, RC Makati commits to empowering the youth. The SuPEER Heroes Training Program, spanning four days, immerses 60 student leaders and 10 educators in a comprehensive curriculum. Through interactive sessions, participants gain crucial skills to understand themselves, support peers in need, and foster a healthier community." President Bing Matoto and RC Makati members stand united, championing mental health awareness and youth empowerment. The program's impact extends beyond the training, as participants are encouraged to cascade their learning and support others in their community. The program was born from a shared vision, sparked by Jean Goulbourn's insights and RC Makati's commitment to community service. RC Makati's SuPEER Heroes are on a mission, armed with knowledge and compassion, to create a brighter, healthier future for all." Rotary Club of Makati - Making a Difference, One Community at a Time.

On August 23rd, a delegation from the Rotary Club of Makati embarked on a journey of impact and collaboration, returning to Cabanatuan to continue the transformative "Tulong Dunong" project. Led by DGN Reggie Nolido, the team included Dir. Neil & Camille Makasiar, and Rtn. James & Jenny Bosch. Their mission was clear: to make a difference in the lives of young students in partnership with St. Nicholas of Tolentine Cathedral Parish and in coordination with RC Cabanatuan North. After a journey of over 3 hours, the team arrived at San Bartolome Parish. Under the warm embrace of the morning sun, a mass was celebrated by none other than Fr. Noy Oliveros, the visionary behind the "Tulong Dunong" project. His dedication and passion set the tone for the day ahead. Post-mass, DGN Reggie Nolido shared heartfelt messages on behalf of RC Makati, while Pres. Martin Esteban of RC Cabanatuan North emphasized the power of collaboration. With an infectious enthusiasm, the Rotary Club members eagerly distributed school bags and essential supplies to 20 children from Brgy. Aduas Norte. This was part of the "Tulong Dunong" project, designed to empower 460 public school students across 23 barangays in Cabanatuan. The goal? To ensure these young minds embark on their educational journey in late August with renewed confidence and purpose. The journey of impact didn't end there. As the team walked over to Calagundian Elementary School, a new chapter unfolded. United by the spirit of "Brigada Eskwela," the Rotary Club members joined forces to contribute to education through the "Books Across the Seas" project. Their generous donation of 500 books is set to enrich the minds of young learners, fostering a love for learning that knows no bounds. In a world where collaboration is key and service is the heart of change, the Rotary Club of Makati continues to shine as a beacon of hope, fostering a brighter future for the children of Cabanatuan. Together, we can create hope in the world.

On a Saturday morning, the Rotary Club of Makati embarked on a journey of compassion and care, led by the Chairman of the Medical Mission, Andrew Prieto. Alongside him, Past Presidents Cesar Campos and Bimbo Mills devoted their time to ensure the health and well-being of the seniors in Rizal. Travelling nearly two hours from the bustling heart of Manila, the RCM team made their way to Pantay Elementary School in Barangay Dalig, Teresa, Rizal. Their destination: Pantay Elementary School, where nearly 100 seniors eagerly awaited the medical care that the RCM team had brought to their doorstep. Upon arrival, messages were shared by Teresa Rizal Mayor Rodel dela Cruz, Past President Cesar, Andrew, and Past President Bimbo, setting the tone for a day of compassion and service. Then, the mission unfolded with each patient given the opportunity to consult with doctors, sharing their concerns and seeking guidance for their health. A dedicated team of medical professionals, sponsored by Zeta Beta Mu Fraternity, provided expert care to address the diverse health needs of the community. After the consultations, patients were guided to the medicines and vitamins section, generously sponsored by RC Makati, ensuring that essential healthcare was accessible to those in need. This mission, made possible through partnerships, saw the collaboration of Zeta Beta Mu Fraternity, Agham Church, and the Teresa Local Government Unit. Approximately 20 medical personnel from Zeta Beta Mu Fraternity worked tirelessly alongside Rotary Club of Makati to bring healthcare to those who need it the most. Special thanks to Teresa LGU for providing free flu and pneumonia vaccines, underscoring the commitment to preventive healthcare. As the sun set on this day of service, the Rotary Club of Makati left behind not just medical supplies but a legacy of compassion and goodwill, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards better health.

HABAGAT (southwest monsoon) inflicted significant damage on many areas in Luzon last month, most notably towns and cities that lie below sea level. One such place is Pangasinan. Last month, Pres. Fred Pascual received a request for assistance from Pres. Delia de Guzman of the Rotary Club of Lingayen, a brother club of ours. Pres. Fred immediately forwarded the letter to PDG Pepito Bengzon, a native of Lingayen, so he could coordinate with RC Lingayen. The city had once again been submerged by floodwaters spawned by habagat’s unrelenting rains. As in past years, hundreds of families had no choice but to flee to temporary shelters where, in cramped spaces, they would stay for a number of days until the flood subsided. On the 1st of September, PDG Pepito was in his hometown to lead the distribution of goodie bags to 330 families in Brgy. Bantayan and Brgy. Salasa. With PDG Pepz at the helm of the relief effort, the partnership with Puregold, which was initiated during his governorship in 2015-16, was reactivated to facilitate the sorting, packing, and delivery of the goods. PDG Pepz also attended the regular dinner meeting of RC Lingayen last Friday, 31 August. Our ties with RC Lingayen were established in RY2005-2006 during the term of PP Sonny Tambunting.