On September 16, 2023, in Cabuyao City, Laguna, the Rotary Club of Makati embarked on a mission of compassion and hope. It was the launch of the Feeding Program in Cabuyao. Past President Freddie Borromeo, a stalwart advocate of the Supplemental Feeding Program, led the charge. Alongside him was Immediate Past President Michael Escaler, celebrated for his unwavering dedication to child nutrition. Their dedication was matched by Rtn. David Nithyananthan, Baby Rotarian Paolo Turno, and prospective member Anton Cabrera, all united for this noble cause. Partners like Vicky Wieneke, President of Kabisig ng Kalahi, and Rev. Rommel Quiñones, Chairman of the Loaves and Fishes Global Mission Inc., joined hands with us. Rotary Club of Cabuyao, represented by President Leif Opiña, and delegates from Rotary Club of Nuvali, led by Charter President Renalyn David, stood in solidarity. At the heart of this initiative are 30 children, aged six to twelve, facing various degrees of malnutrition. The launch featured heartfelt messages from RC Makati members - PP Freddie, IPP Michael, David, and Paolo, as well as messages from our valued partners. The program spans six months, providing each child with a daily nutritious hot meal and a glass of milk. But it's more than just meals. Mothers lead the way, planning, preparing, and serving these vital meals, while also learning essential skills. Educational classes cover crucial topics like nutrition, meal planning, sanitation, personal hygiene, and overall health. This holistic approach empowers families for healthier living. Since 2004, the Rotary Club of Makati, in partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, has touched the lives of over 5,000 undernourished children. This year, we've allocated a budget of Two Million Pesos, reaffirming our commitment to making a lasting impact. Join us in making a difference. Together, we can brighten the future of these children. Together, we're changing lives, one meal at a time.

On August 26, The RC Makati for Babies Culmination Day, a heartening display of community solidarity, unfolded at the Holy Family Parish Church in San Andres, Manila on August 26th. Notable figures including Pres. Bing Matoto, Past President JunJun Dayrit, and Sec. Regi Ponferrada graced the event, alongside Rtn. Boy Arteche with his son John, Rtn. Ferdie and Menchit Ordoveza, pivotal figures in conceiving the RC Makati for Babies project. The flagship initiative of IPP Michael Escaler, in collaboration with Lazarus Kitchen, addresses the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers aged 6 months to 3 years. Through the distribution of Mingo meals - a nutritious blend of rice, mongo, and malunggay - packed with essential vitamins and minerals, the project aims to provide vital sustenance. The day began with spirited volunteers from Caritas Manila and parents of the young beneficiaries coming together to prepare a sumptuous feast. The menu, featuring rice, menudo, tinola soup, and freshly squeezed calamansi juice, set the stage for a joyful atmosphere. Children joined lively dances led by enthusiastic Lazarus Kitchen volunteers, with the RC Makati delegates soon joining in. The event commenced with a reflective opening prayer by Ms. Rogie of Lazarus Kitchen, followed by Pres. Bing Matoto's warm welcome to attendees. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to beneficiaries and volunteers, underscoring their collective contribution to the project's success. Pres. Matoto hoped that the nutrition knowledge gained would continue to be practiced. Ann Menchit Ordoveza, an instrumental figure in program realization, expressed her appreciation for RC Makati's funding support and unwavering commitment to monthly visitations and aid distributions throughout the 6-month program. A heartwarming moment arrived with the distribution of nutritious meals. Pres. Bing actively participated in serving food, exemplifying the camaraderie and generosity that defined the day. Rev. Fr. Juanito Arroco Jr., the parish priest of Holy Family Parish, added to the day's significance by leading attendees on a tour of the under-construction parish building. Fr. Jun appealed for assistance in completing the construction through generous contributions, underscoring the event's community-focused essence.

August 14, 2023 -- On a typical Monday morning, the Rotary Club of Makati springs into action, embracing the new week with a spirit of service and collaboration. A dedicated delegation, led by President Bing Matoto, his daughter Anne, PE/Dir Keith Harrison, and Community Director Rodrigo Segura, embarks on a nearly four-hour journey to Cabanatuan, ready for yet another impactful service project. Upon their arrival at the San Antonio de Padua church, warm greetings await them from Fr. Noy Oliveros, their project partner. Representing RC Cabanatuan North are President Martin Esteban and PDG Dindo Berino, who stand alongside, ready to lend their support. A mass, led by Fr. Noy, brings the community together. Following the service, a short program ensues, graced by President Bing's uplifting message, echoing the club's commitment to making a difference. With enthusiasm, the Rotary Club distributes school bags and essential supplies to 20 children of Brgy. Imelda. Their "Tulong Dunong" project aims to equip 460 public school students from 23 barangays in Cabanatuan, ensuring they start their classes in late August with confidence. The journey continues as the team arrives at Imelda Integrated School, joining forces for "Brigada Eskwela." The Rotary Club contributes to education through their "Books Across the Seas" project, donating 500 books that enrich young minds. The school expresses gratitude, presenting a certificate of appreciation. In the heart of Cabanatuan, Rotary Club of Makati's unwavering dedication shines through, a beacon of hope and service that continues to touch lives and foster lasting partnerships.

In the aftermath of the devastating Typhoons Egay and Falcon, a glimmer of hope emerged for the affected families in northern Luzon. Stepping up to the challenge, the Rotary Club of Makati, represented by Chief of Staff Ron Dotaro, embarked on a mission to provide much-needed relief and support to those who had lost everything. On the morning of August 4th, the Rotary Club of Makati's relief efforts began in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. Collaborating closely with the Rotary Club of Narvacan, led by President Caloy Valera and Past President Arnel Cabatu, the team faced challenging circumstances, including the need to cross a river due to a collapsed bridge. The relief mission focused on Brgy. Nanguneg West, where essential items like mats and blankets were distributed to over 250 families. The Rotary Club of Narvacan went even further, contributing food packs to ensure that basic needs were met during this trying time. On the next day, August 5, undeterred by challenges, the Rotary Club of Makati continued their relief efforts, this time in Dagupan. Collaborating with the Rotary Club of Dagupan led by President Richie Lirio, the team visited Brgy. Hererra and the East Central School evacuation area, providing assistance to numerous families. Once again, mats and blankets were distributed, while partner club, the Rotary Club of Dagupan, supplied rice and canned goods. The Unilab Foundation also lent support, distributing anti-fungal ointment to the beneficiaries. The relief mission's final destination was San Matias, Pampanga, where the Rotary Club of Makati joined forces with the Rotary Club of Makati Global. Working together with CP Cath Ronquillo and representatives from P&A Grant Thornton, the team provided relief to over 400 families. Mats, blankets, and food packs brought a sense of comfort to those who had lost so much. Expanding their outreach beyond these areas, the Rotary Club of Makati continued to support other communities in need. Donating sets of mats and blankets to the Rotary Club of Vigan and food packs to the Rotary Club of Tuguegarao, their impact spread far and wide. The relief missions conducted by the Rotary Club of Makati stand as a testament to the power of compassion and collective action. In times of crisis, dedicated individuals and organizations can make a difference. As communities rebuild and recover, the Rotary Club of Makati's unwavering commitment reminds us that together, we can overcome even the darkest of days.