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As Rotary Year 2025–2026 commenced with the global call to “Unite for Good,” RC Makati joined hands with the RC Parañaque St. Andrew to host the Annual Children’s Day Celebration at Rotary Homes Parañaque on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Held in Brgy. La Huerta, Parañaque City, the celebration brought joy, learning, and support to over 200 children aged 5 to 10 years old. With the vital coordination and backing of RCC Par 1 and RCC Par 3, the day unfolded as a resounding success for both young participants and organizers. Representing RCM were Pres. Eddie Galvez, PP Bimbo Mills, Dir. Patrick and Mitzi Parungao, Rtn. Iñigo and Angela Garcia, and Rtn. Boy Arteche, with the enthusiastic presence of District Governor Reggie Nolido, who engaged warmly with the children throughout the event. The morning began with heartfelt welcome messages from Pres. Eddie Galvez and Pres. Michelle De Leon of RC Parañaque St. Andrew, both emphasizing Rotary’s deep commitment to community-building and child-focused service. One of the event’s key moments was a live storytelling session of Beware the Snakes, a children’s book on child protection and awareness authored by Ann Angela Garcia, spouse of Rtn. Iñigo Garcia, who also led the session with the support of the Rotaract Club of Parañaque St. Andrew. A magic show followed, adding laughter and amazement to the day’s activities, and children received school supplies from RCM, while RC Parañaque St. Andrew ensured each child enjoyed McDonald’s meals and snacks. To further equip the young audience with practical knowledge, the Don Galo Fire Fighters conducted a Disaster Preparedness Seminar, capped by a hands-on fire extinguishing demo from Gov. Reggie himself. Just days earlier, on July 1, RCM also co-hosted Christmas in July at the Cuneta Astrodome with RC Makati Gems and other District 3830 clubs, reaching over 1,000 children and parents with educational and entertaining programs. Attended by Pres. Eddie Galvez, PDG Pepz Bengzon, PP Doris Ensomo, PP Peter Manzano, and Gov. Reggie with First Lady Sue Ann Nolido and their children, the event amplified the Rotary spirit of giving and joy. Together, these back-to-back programs exemplified Rotary’s mission to uplift the lives of children and families through partnership, service, and joy bringing the new Rotary year to life with a renewed sense of purpose and unity.

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The Rotary Dorm Project of the Rotary Club of Makati marked another milestone with the official turnover of its fifth dormitory on June 2, 2025, at Bicol State University in Legazpi, Albay. This flagship initiative, which began during the term of PP Fred Pascual in Rotary Year 2018–2019, seeks to provide safe, secure, and conducive housing for female students from underprivileged backgrounds and living in remote areas—enabling them to pursue their education in safety and with dignity and purpose. Leading the RC Makati delegation at the turnover were Pres. Keith & Rachel Harrison, along with PE Eddie Galvez, PN Howie Calleja, PND Chris Ferareza, IPP Bing Matoto, incoming Director Paolo Turno, Rtn. Paquito Dizon, and Baby Rotarian Nicky Ramos. During the program, PE Eddie traced the dorm project’s journey, which began in Sumilao, Bukidnon, and has since expanded to La Libertad in Negros Oriental, Infanta in Quezon, and Puerto Princesa in Palawan. He underscored the dorms’ role in transforming the lives of young women through access to education. Pres. Keith introduced Rotary’s mission, highlighting the seven areas of focus, particularly education and literacy, as the inspiration behind the initiative. Dr. Baby Boy Nebres, president of Bicol University, and Raffy Magno, executive director of Angat Buhay, also delivered messages of support. A ribbon-cutting and key handover ceremony followed, symbolizing the start of a new chapter for the dorm’s future residents. The P2.2M dorm, consistent with the specs of previous installations, features a well-equipped kitchen, a computer-furnished study area, a 20-bed sleeping room complete with beddings and mosquito nets, and clean comfort and shower rooms. Partners who made this dorm possible include the Rotary Club of Naga, which helped procure furniture and supplies; Globe International Distributor Center, Inc. (GIDCI), which donated toilet and bath equipment; and Tahilan Residence & Study Center, which continues to guide dormers through values formation sessions. With over 250 students already served—and many now college graduates contributing meaningfully to their communities—the impact of the Rotary Dorm Project continues to grow. It has become one of RC Makati’s major initiatives in the area of education and literacy, affirming the Club’s long-term commitment to creating opportunities and empowering the next generation through access to safe and supportive learning environments.

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In a landmark collaboration for environmental restoration and education, RC Makati, led by Pres. Keith Harrison, PND/VP Chris Ferareza, and Incoming Director CB Rivilla, joined the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on May 26, 2025, for a meaningful tree-planting initiative at the UP Sierra Madre Land Grant. This large-scale activity brought together key leaders from the UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR), including Dean Marlo Mendoza, Dr. Enrico Supangco, Executive Director of the UPLB Foundation, and Mr. Reynaldo Lorida, Land Grant Management Office (LGMO) Manager. Youth participation played a vital role in the event, with 15 members of the Interact Club of Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School led by adviser Mrs. Arlene Okuma, and 10 students each from the Sisters of Mary School’s Boystown and Girlstown campuses, accompanied by Sr. Mylene Arambulo and Sr. Esterlita. The Rotaract Club of Makati was also represented by PP Kash Gana and Rain Rubia. After a three-hour journey from Makati, participants were greeted with warmth and hospitality in the form of hot soup and traditional delicacies, providing much-needed comfort amid the drizzling and chilly mountain weather. The program commenced with welcome remarks from LGMO Manager Rey Lorida and a compelling address by Dean Marlo Mendoza, who emphasized the deeper purpose of the gathering not just reforestation, but a renewed appreciation for the ecological and academic significance of UP’s land grants and the remaining forests of the Sierra Madre, the country’s “last frontier.” Dean Mendoza elaborated on the strategic importance of the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant (LQLG), granted on February 8, 1930 via Legislative Act 3608, and the Laguna Land Grant (LLG), established on June 18, 1964 through Republic Act No. 3990. The LQLG spans 5,729 hectares and was created as a permanent endowment for the University of the Philippines, while the LLG serves as a central experiment station supporting the research and extension programs of UP’s Colleges of Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. Despite their critical ecological role in mitigating typhoon impacts from the Pacific and preserving biodiversity, many parts of these land grants remain degraded and in need of urgent restoration. Pres. Keith delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, recognizing Dean Mendoza’s leadership, the film production team behind the environmental advocacy movie showcased in schools, and the collective efforts that made the project possible. He also reflected on the moving student performance of “Let’s Build a Forest,” a poignant reminder of the Club’s shared mission to nurture the environment. Dr. Enrico Supangco reinforced his support on behalf of the UPLB Foundation, setting the stage for the ceremonial signing of the Deed of Donation between RC Makati, UPLB, and the LGMO. During this ceremony, RC Makati officially turned over a Php 460,000.00 check to fund the planting of four hectares of indigenous tree species under a newly launched Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) initiative. Following the formalities, the group hiked approximately one kilometer to the planting site, where Dean Mendoza led an interactive forest biodiversity walkthrough and guided participants through the correct tree planting techniques. Each sapling was carefully planted and tagged with the name of the individual planter serving as a personal pledge to environmental stewardship. The ITP initiative is a forward-thinking program designed to integrate ecological restoration with long-term educational benefits. Through sustainable harvesting of indigenous trees, the project aims to fund full scholarships and provide academic incentives for Latin Honor graduates and Forester Licensure Examination topnotchers. Additionally, it offers hands-on training for forestry students across the full production forestry value chain from seedling to sawmill while supplying raw materials for CFNR facilities. Beyond its academic and economic potential, the ITP project significantly contributes to forest landscape restoration, ecological services recovery, and CFNR’s ongoing community extension programs. With the first harvest anticipated in twelve years, the initiative upholds a strict commitment to replanting each tree harvested to ensure ecological balance. This endeavor not only strengthens RC Makati’s advocacy for sustainable forestry but also showcases the transformative power of partnerships in safeguarding the environment and investing in future generations.

The powerful message from the musical A Thousand Forests—that forests symbolize life, protection, and hope—resonated with over 5,000 students through special screenings. This awareness transformed into action on May 26, when 35 students (15 from Gen. Pio del Pilar and 20 from the Sisters of Mary Boystown and Girlstown) embarked on a tree planting mission in Siniloan, Laguna as part of the UP Los Baños Adopt-a-Forest program. Supported by the Rotary Club of Makati, these students contributed to restoring the Sierra Madre mountain range. The event featured a program with key speakers, including Land Grant Manager Rey Lorida and College of Forestry Dean Marlo Mendoza, who emphasized the Sierra Madre's importance for biodiversity. UPLB Foundation's Dr. Enrico Supangco highlighted partnership power in fostering a greener future. A Memorandum of Agreement formalized their commitment, along with the turnover of ₱400,000 to support both reforestation and forestry scholarships. Following a hike to the planting site, each student learned proper tree planting techniques, symbolizing hope for future forests. This initiative marks the start of a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.

Water is essential—imagine waking up with no access to it. You start your day not with breakfast or a shower, but by joining a long queue of people with buckets and water containers at hand. This was the daily reality for over 2,300 households in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur. For years, the residents of this municipality endured limited access to clean and reliable water. Their primary sources were communal pumps and water delivery trucks—systems prone to long waits and insufficient supply. But after years of scarcity, that burden has finally been lifted. RC Makati has successfully completed the Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur Deep Well Potable Water Supply and Distribution Project (Global Grant No. GG2092028)—a major initiative supported by contributions from RC Makati (US$20,000), RC Formosa Happiness, New Taipei City (US$1,000) as the international partner, Rotary International District 3830–Philippines (US$3,750), Rotary International District 3490–Taiwan (US$30,000), and the balance of US$42,750 from the world fund of the The Rotary Foundation. With total funding of US$97,500, the project enabled the construction of a new well and laid the groundwork for a fully operational Level 3 waterworks system, ensuring access to safe, sustainable water for thousands of residents. As of today, 574 households across eight barangays in Sto. Domingo now have direct access to clean water. On May 8, Pres. Keith Harrison, along with FA Rachel, PP JunJun Dayrit, and incoming Director Michael Hsu, traveled to Sto. Domingo for the project’s closing ceremony—celebrating a mission fulfilled. They were joined by project partners Mr. Nonoy S. Fernandez, Area Manager of 3H Sto. Domingo Waterworks; Barangay Captain Jun of Nagbettedan; members of RC Vigan; and residents now benefitting from the new system. The ceremony opened with a handwashing education session led by RC Vigan IPP Glenda Rabino, highlighting the importance of sanitation alongside access to clean water. PP JunJun gave an overview of the project’s journey—from its roots in the 3H Water Initiative in San Fernando, Pampanga, to the pandemic-induced delays that set back implementation for nearly two years. Pres. Keith conveyed his gratitude and joy at seeing the project through, while FA Rachel bridged the message in Ilokano, connecting more deeply with the local community. A ribbon-cutting and blessing followed, along with the signing of a usufruct agreement with the Sto. Domingo LGU, formally entrusting operations to MR3H and SD3HWI. The road to this success was not easy. The initiative began in 2018 under (then President) PP JunJun Dayrit, who launched the initial grant application. Though the first attempt lost funding due to delays, RC Makati reapplied in 2019 and persisted through a rigorous approval process—including a pivotal video call with the Areas of Focus (AOF) manager. The grant was approved on March 10, 2021, and the formal groundbreaking took place on March 19, 2022. During implementation, project objectives were adjusted with TRF’s approval. Originally, a shallow well and expanded distribution network were planned in the densely populated Poblacion area. But with no suitable wellsite available there, the project shifted to Barangay Nagbettedan, five kilometers away and home to about 150 households. A geo-resistivity test conducted by a hydro-geologist revealed that a deep well—not a shallow one—was needed. Though more expensive, the deep well offered greater capacity and long-term viability. As a result, Nagbettedan became the initial beneficiary. Plans are underway to expand distribution westward to Barangays Binongan (200+ households) and Nambaran (300+ households), and eventually link the system to Poblacion and adjoining communities. To support this expansion, a “Looping Project” was completed, linking Nagbettedan to neighboring Barangay Nambaran and connecting the network to a 150-cubic-meter Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tank in Barangay Nalasin. This auxiliary tank will provide backup water during peak demand or interruptions, drawing from the now fully interconnected pipeline system. The Sto. Domingo Water Project is a continuation of a legacy that began in Rotary Year 1999–2000, under then president, Tito Panlilio. That year, RC Makati secured a 3H (Health, Hunger, and Humanity) matching grant of $189,000 from The Rotary Foundation to launch the San Fernando Water Project in Pampanga. After a decade of effective operations under RC Makati’s supervision, the system was formally turned over in 2012 to the San Fernando City Water District. The initiative became known as the Makati Rotary 3H Resources Inc. (MR3H). Impressively, of the $189,000 grant, only $150,000 was spent—thanks to prudent management and favorable conditions—leaving $39,000 in savings. With TRF’s approval, these savings, combined with earnings from cooperative operations, funded a second water system in Virgen de los Remedios, Bamban, Tarlac, launched in 2009 and still operational today. Now, over two decades later, MR3H is behind its third major effort—the Sto. Domingo water system. Once fully expanded, this project is expected to serve up to 2,300 households or approximately 13,800 people across Ilocos Sur.

In pursuit of its enduring commitment to preventive healthcare and the empowerment of women through early detection, RC Makati, in partnership with the RC Makati Premier District and the Philippine Cancer Society, mounted a series of impactful cancer screening missions throughout April and May 2025. These missions provided free breast and cervical cancer screenings to women in both workplace and community settings across Luzon, reinforcing the club’s advocacy for accessible, proactive health services especially for those with limited means. The first of four major missions commenced on April 8, 2025, at the Sanitary Care Products facility in Tanauan, Batangas, where 100 women, primarily company employees received free screenings. Fifty-six participants underwent VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) testing, with three found positive and immediately referred for further medical evaluation. Additionally, 57 women received breast examinations, several of whom were flagged for follow-up, reinforcing the mission’s goal of workplace wellness through early diagnosis. This event marked the second collaboration for the Rotary year between RC Makati and the Philippine Cancer Society, further deepening their shared commitment to corporate-based health programs. The second mission followed on April 23, 2025, at Sanitary Care in Brgy. Bagumbayan, Taguig City, screening another 100 women. Twenty-six underwent VIA tests, resulting in one positive case, who received on-site cryotherapy and a week’s medication. Meanwhile, five women presented potential breast concerns requiring closer observation. This impactful mission was supported by PP Cesar Campos, Dir. Neil Makasiar, and Ms. Maribee Campos-Lamers of RC Makati Premier District, demonstrating inter-club cooperation in service to women’s health. The third screening mission was held on April 26, 2025, in Brgy. Mayapa, Calamba, Laguna, focusing on a more community-based approach. A total of 45 women underwent breast exams, with eight found to have breast masses that warranted further diagnostics. Eleven participants also received cervical cancer screenings, with no positive VIA results recorded. This community engagement showcased RCM’s commitment to extending quality medical access to women in low-resource areas. The fourth and final mission in the series took place on May 10, 2025, at Carissa Homes East 1 in Bagumbayan, Teresa, Rizal. Observed by Dir. Boy Arteche and Rtn. Michael Hsu, the outreach was bolstered by RCM’s Php 20,000 sponsorship, directly supporting the services provided. Of the 100 women screened, 50 received VIA testing three of whom tested positive and were treated immediately via cryotherapy. Eight participants were flagged for breast masses and were advised to seek further evaluation. The active involvement of club leaders not only emphasized Rotary’s hands-on service model but also reinforced the club’s steadfast support for holistic community health. These comprehensive missions addressed two of the most prevalent cancers affecting Filipino women breast and cervical cancer. With breast cancer as the leading type and cervical cancer being both common and largely preventable, early detection remains crucial. Through the provision of free services and prompt medical referrals, RC Makati has exemplified Rotary’s power to bridge critical healthcare gaps, especially for those with limited access. Altogether, five cancer screening missions were successfully conducted by RC Makati during Rotary Year 2024–2025, collectively reaching hundreds of women across Parañaque, Batangas, Taguig, Laguna, and Rizal. This sustained initiative reflects the club’s resolute focus on early detection, preventive care, and equitable healthcare access.

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On May 7, 2025, the Rotary Club of Makati delegation—led by President Keith Harrison—returned to Ilocos Sur. Not for a vacation, but for mission-driven work that has now become an annual tradition. With him were First Ann Rachel, Past President JunJun Dayrit, Incoming Director Michael Hsu, and Chief of Staff Ron. They arrived in Narvacan just before sunrise, ready to begin their environmental mission. At the shores of Sulvec, the blessing of 46 new reef buds was held—bringing RC Makati’s total to 385 reef buds planted in Narvacan over four years. Each reef bud represented guest speakers, new members, and the name of the presidents of the sister clubs RC Makati had visited. A brief but meaningful program followed, emceed by Past President Arnel Cabatu of RC Narvacan. Benjhie Tayag, supplier of the reef buds, recognized RC Makati as the single largest Rotary supporter of the Reef Buds project—having deployed units not only in Narvacan but also in Padre Burgos and Bauan. Kapitan Paul shared the visible benefits of the initiative—improved fish catch and a noticeable increase in coastal tourism. Mayor Pablito Sanidad expressed gratitude to RC Makati for four years of unwavering support, saying each visit feels like a reunion—different president, same purpose. As a token of appreciation, President Keith was presented with a miniature statue of the Narvacan Watch Tower—a symbol of the town’s vigilance and community pride. President Keith reflected on the dual impact of the initiative—protecting marine ecosystems while boosting local livelihoods. After a warm lunch hosted by RC Narvacan, the delegation traveled to Vigan to continue their mission. That evening, they joined RC Vigan for a dinner meeting—not only for fellowship but also to formally turn over RC Makati’s support for the “Eye Ayaten Ka” project. With a P300,000 donation from RC Makati, the project will fund a new refraction machine to help assess the eyesight of grade school students, especially non-readers. On Day Two, the RC Makati delegation made their way to Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur—for the closing ceremony of a life-changing water project. Funded by a $97,500 Global Grant, the project aimed to bring clean, safe, and sustainable water to Nagbettedan, a community of around 2,300 households. Before this project, many families endured long lines, waiting with buckets just to collect water. Today, over 500 households are already benefiting from a new well and pipeline network that marks the start of a Level 3 waterworks system—a full household tap connection model. The ceremony opened with a handwashing education session led by IPP Glenda Rabino of RC Vigan, emphasizing the importance of sanitation and hygiene alongside access to water. Past President JunJun gave a comprehensive project overview—from its roots in the 3H Water Initiative in San Fernando, Pampanga, to how the COVID-19 pandemic delayed construction for nearly two years. President Keith expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the chance to serve, while First Ann Rachel translated into Ilokano, strengthening the connection with the local community. A ribbon-cutting and blessing marked the project’s completion. A usufruct agreement was also signed with the Sto. Domingo LGU, formally granting project partners—MR3H and SD3HWI—the right to operate and maintain the assets for the duration of their usable life. Two days. Three towns. One purpose. Fellowship, service, and impact—Rotary Club of Makati’s Ilocos mission proves that when we serve, we grow stronger together.