Read more: https://tribune.net.ph/2024/07/07/new-rc-makati-president-vows-keener-concern-for-mental-health-environmental-concerns

https://drive.google.com/file/d/19fSYSL5sltr3mLsZid1dkrwzQjEL1dAF/view?usp=sharing

Every week during the RC Makati meetings, we offer a symbolic gesture to our guest speakers—a replica of a steel plate to be installed in a reef bud that will be submerged in the Sea of Sulvec in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. This token carries more than just appreciation; it carries a promise. We tell our guest speakers: “This will be planted in your name.” The same plate is made for each new member inducted into our Club, and for the presidents of the sister clubs we visit. On May 7, 2025, that commitment was fulfilled. Traveling through the night, the RC Makati delegation—led by Pres. Keith Harrison and joined by First Ann Rachel, PP JunJun Dayrit, incoming Director Michael Hsu, and CoS Ron (who arrived a day earlier)—reached Narvacan at the break of dawn. They were welcomed with breakfast at Gremar’s Eatery, hosted by RC Narvacan. Soon after, they proceeded to the shores of Sulvec for the blessing of 47 new reef buds, bringing the total number to 385 since the project began under the leadership of PP Peter Manzano in RY2020–21. In a brief but meaningful program emceed by PP Arnel Cabatu of RC Narvacan, Benjhie Tayag—the supplier and inventor of the reef buds—recognized RC Makati as the single largest Rotary Club supporter of the Reef Buds initiative, with deployments not only in Narvacan but also in Padre Burgos in Quezon and Bauan in Batangas. Kapitan Paul Cabasal spoke about the visible impact of the project, noting the increased fish catch and rising interest from coastal tourists—early signs that marine conservation is translating into sustainable livelihood. Mayor Pablito Sanidad extended his heartfelt gratitude to RC Makati for four years of unwavering support. “Every visit feels like a reunion,” he said, “a different president each year, but always with the same purpose.” As a token of appreciation, he presented President Keith with a miniature statue of the Narvacan Watch Tower—a symbol of community pride and vigilance. In his message, Pres. Keith expressed enthusiasm over the project’s dual impact: promoting environmental protection while supporting economic growth in local fishing communities. This year’s 47 reef buds include the names of: Kiko Pangilinan, Heidi Mendoza, Rina Neoh, Yulo Loyzaga, Pres. Tom Wolf, RC Singapore, Pres. Danu Chotikapanich, RC Bangkok, Pres. Neil Ronard J. Que, RC Cagayan De Oro, Atty. Leila De Lima, Pres. Reynald Ariño, RC Zamboanga City West, Pres. Nathaniel Lacambra, RC Baguio Summer Capital, Pres. Joseph Raymund Sto. Domingo, RC Dagupan, Pres. Ralp Cambronero, RC Davao, Pres. Christopher Macadangdang, RC Cauayan, Marcus Smith, Roy Moore, Dean Marlo Mendoza, Caloy Yulo, Cynthia Carrion, H.E. Constance See, H.E. Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Marie Stephanie Tan Hammed, Anika Haxton, Pres. Tseng, Jeng-Keng, RC Taoyuan, Dominic Rubio, P/Maj. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba, Rogelio Singson, Raoul Eduardo Romulo, Mark Domitrak, Gov. Prescy Yulo, P/Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre, Emiliano Romano, Patrick Leynes, Gina Romero, Dr. Alaric Nathan, RIPE Mario Cesar Martins De Camargo, Aaron & Daianne Mempin, George & Anika Haxton, Dendricks & Jaimie Lao, Jun & Jovee Abrazaldo, Anthony Jude Violago, Robert Raymond & Sasha Del Rosario, Antonio Miguel & Kathleen Alcatara, Lorenzo Santos, Maximillan & Marcy Marty, Nicandro Ramos Jr., and Carlos Prieto. After the program, the team made a brief visit to the historic Narvacan Watch Tower, before proceeding to lunch at Chad’s Café and Bar, once again hosted by RC Narvacan. The Save Our Reefs Project of RC Makati stands as a clear example of how environmental protection can drive economic development—empowering coastal communities through restored ecosystems, improved fish haul, and increased tourism.

Fresh from their successful reef buds deployment in Narvacan on the morning of May 7, the RC Makati delegation—led by Pres. Keith Harrison with First Ann Rachel, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, incoming Director Michael Hsu, and CoS Ron—joined their brother club at the RC Vigan clubhouse for an evening of fellowship and formal partnership for the Eye Ayaten Ka Project. A dinner of delightful Ilokano specialties set the tone for the evening, which was officially called to order by RC Vigan Pres. Jun Tagorda. Then a presentation was made by IPP Glenda Rabino, the project proponent, on a comprehensive overview of the Eye Ayaten Ka Project. The initiative seeks to provide early vision screening using an auto refractor for non-reader pupils in public schools, refer those with visual impairments for further evaluation and treatment, and educate teachers and parents about the crucial link between vision health and learning outcomes. A tripartite MoA was then signed between RC Makati, RC Vigan, and Metro Vigan Hospital. Signing on behalf of their respective organizations were Pres. Keith for RC Makati, PE Benjie Buen for RC Vigan, and PDG Digna Ragasa, CEO of Metro Vigan Hospital. The hospital committed to ensuring proper equipment storage, regular maintenance, assignment of trained personnel, and accurate usage documentation. RC Makati’s P300K support was then formally turned over—specifically, funding for the purchase of the auto refraction machine that will serve as the cornerstone of the project’s implementation. This initiative was first approved in principle during the term of IPP Bing Matoto, with funding allocated for execution under the current term. The evening underscored not only the spirit of service but also the power of collaboration in addressing fundamental health barriers that impact education and community development.

The power of connections — this best captures the spirit behind RC Makati’s ongoing support for the Payatas community. Our relationship with Payatas, through the Fairplay for All Foundation, was sparked by a remarkable young woman, Ronalyn Lagata, who was recognized as a special awardee in last year’s Paing Hechanova Youth Leadership Awards. That recognition of outstanding leadership introduced us to the wonderful work being done in Payatas. But we did not stop there — we chose to be part of their journey, helping to further strengthen their impact. On April 27, Pres. Keith & FA Rachel Harrison, together with Dir. Boy Arteche, returned to Payatas to join the celebration of the 14th anniversary of Payatas FC. The event also marked the formal opening of the newly renovated Payatas Sports Center, a project proudly supported by RC Makati through a P650,000 contribution, which included the provision of futsal shoes for the young athletes. The renovation included the upgrading of the outside court flooring, construction of a supporter’s wall, wall dividers, installation of CCTVs, wall extensions, a new roof metal cover, and improvements to washroom walls and dividers. During the event, RC Makati also unveiled the Four-Way Test marker installed on the wall beside the Center’s gate. The marker features two versions — one in English and another in Tagalog — serving as a daily reminder of the values that guide both the club and the community. The improved facility will definitely benefit the 250 registered players currently under Payatas FC. With these enhancements, we are aiming to reach up to 500 players engaged in multiple sports, develop more local coaches from Payatas, and help more young athletes earn varsity scholarships for higher education. Our commitment to Payatas reflects our belief that when we invest in youth, we invest in a brighter, stronger future — for the community and beyond.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/13YBCu4mLCDIXM-LVY2LJzqRY6CYXOQ75/view?usp=sharing

SuPEERheroes program sponsored by RC Makati in partnership with RC Cagayan de Oro and Natasha Goulbourn Foundation. The event gathered Junior High School students from various schools in Cagayan de Oro City. The program focuses on empowering peers to support each other in dealing with mental health challenges, recognizing that young people may find it easier to confide in those of their own age group.

1 March 2025 — Rotary Club Makati, in partnership with RC Cagayan de Oro and the CDO LGU, launched the First 1,000 Days (F1K) Project to support 50 adolescent mothers in Cagayan de Oro. With P300,000 in funding, the project aims to provide access to sexual and reproductive health services, reduce early and repeat pregnancies, reintegrate young mothers into school, and improve secondary education completion rates. It also promotes responsible parenthood, financial assistance, and tailored interventions to support their well-being. Through this initiative, we empower young mothers to build a healthier future for themselves and their children.

Six months, 120 school days. That's how long the Rotary Club of Makati has been nourishing 30 children in Bagong Ilog, Pasig, helping them fight malnutrition and regain their strength. On February 7, we came together to celebrate this milestone. We met the children, witnessed their transformation, and shared in their bright futures ahead. Among those present were: Club President Keith Harrison ,PP Freddy with Jojo Borromeo ,PP Junjun Dairit, Rotarians Chito Cantada, Ambassador Melvin Castellino, Anton Cabrera, Nico Dairit, C.B. Revilla, George with Annika Haxton, Aaron and Diane Mempin. During the program, heartfelt speeches were delivered by President Keith Harrison and Past President Freddy Borromeo. It's true that Rotary is a worthy community, that we are all united in the hope of a better community and environment. And one of the most beautiful programs of Rotary is the improvement of the health of the next Filipinos, these children, and the parents. Hello! So today is the graduation. I can see that other than you don't shout so loudly, you look to be quite healthy. Yes? Yes. And with that, I hope the results show that the weight has come on nicely and you're going to grow into a healthy, well-educated, and bright kid who will leave the country in the coming years. This program, launched in August last year, provided each child with a daily serving of hot milk and nutritious meals for 120 days. Beyond the meals, parents were also trained to prepare affordable yet nutritious food for their families. By the end of the program, every child had returned to a healthy weight. And this Rotary year, we've already enrolled 350 more children. Since its arrival in 2004, this initiative has helped over 6,000 children escape malnutrition. But the celebration didn't stop there. Through the last Angel Gift-Giving Program, chaired by IPP Bing Matoto, the children received special gifts, along with slippers donated by Tabas Samson. This year, the last Angel Program has broken records in both donations received and the number of children helped. This is what Rotary does. It's not just about 120 days. It's about a lifetime of impact. The magic we create today will shape a healthier, brighter tomorrow.

It's been another banner year for our annual gift-giving activity, the Last Angel Project, organized by our Rotary Anns. Conceived in Rotary Year 1998-99 by then incoming First Ann Brin Panlilio and brought to life by Ann Angela Quila as its first chairperson, the Last Angel Project draws inspiration from a touching story in Reader’s Digest. It tells of a poor orphan who, on Christmas Eve, received the last angel from a tree of gifts in a department store—a gift from a kind woman who would later become her adoptive mother. Over the years, this tradition has blossomed, with the immediate past First Ann taking on the role of chairperson. This year, the project was led by IPP Bing Matoto, with incredible support from Anns Tess Aseoche, Cecille Dayrit, Rose Galvez, Trina Galvez, Rachel Harrison, Cat Rufino, Marie Segura, Amy Villatuya, and the entire Rotary Anns team. The Last Angel Project reached new milestones this year, with record-high donations totaling P1.2 million and a remarkable number of beneficiaries—nearly 3,800 children. The journey began on November 22, when Christmas came early for 65 students in our feeding program at P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City. This joyful event marked the kick-off of this year’s Last Angel Project. On November 27, we visited two familiar sites in Makati. First, the Bantay Bata ward at the Makati Social Development Center and Makati Youth Home, where children received gifts from their carefully curated wish lists, including clothing and shoes. Meals were also provided. Later, at the Bahay Maria Foundation, 16 orphans were treated to gifts and a meal, spreading the warmth of the season. Even on a holiday, on November 30, Rotarians and Anns gathered at the RC Makati Clubhouse to bring joy to over 200 children from our adopted barangay in partnership with RCC Bukluran. In December, the momentum grew. On December 6, the team visited the Philippine Institute for the Deaf in Pandacan, Manila, where 105 deaf children received gifts. The next day, on December 7, 150 children from the Sto. Niño de Pandacan community, mostly beneficiaries of our RC Makati for Babies program, were filled with joy as they received presents and meals The journey continued across the region: • On December 11, 320 children at San Juan Nepomuceno School in Pasay and 150 children at St. Claire of Assisi Parish in Longos, Malabon, experienced the spirit of Christmas. • On December 12, we brought gifts to 104 special needs children at Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School in Makati, home to our Interactors. • On December 13, we traveled to Tanay, Rizal, providing gifts to 70 children enrolled in our feeding program at Rawang Elementary School. On December 14, we visited several Gawad Kalinga communities in Taguig, distributing gifts to 75 children at GK Laura Drive, 65 children at CWC GK, and another 65 children at GK Jack N’ Jill." On December 15, 65 children from GK Sunshineville in Las Piñas received gifts and kiddie meals. In the afternoon, we brought joy to 65 street children enrolled in the Bolanday Project in Luneta. Partnering with the Makati PNP, we distributed gifts to over 330 children of policemen, making their holiday season extra special on December 16. On December 18, 150 children at Makabata Foundation School in Pasig received gifts, reminding them that they are loved and cared for. On December 19, 30 orphans at Sta. Rita Orphanage in Parañaque and 110 special needs children at Stepping Stone in Paranaque were treated to gifts and a festive celebration. On December 20, the team brought joy to 120 children at GK Smokey Mountain in Tondo and 70 children at GK Tatalon in Quezon City. On December 21, 200 children at the Marillac Hills Training Center in Muntinlupa and 150 PWD kids at San Pedro Calungsod Parish received gifts and shared in the holiday spirit. On December 22, just days before Christmas, we brought the spirit of the season to 120 children in the community of the Jesuit Mission Station in Caloocan." After Christmas, on December 28, we visited our adopted community at Rotary Homes Parañaque, distributing gifts to over 300 children in Par 1 and Par 3 of the community. Thanks to your generosity and the unwavering commitment of our Rotarians and Anns, the Last Angel Project continues to spread love and joy. Together, we’re creating brighter futures—one angel at a time. Thank you for your support, and see you next year!

Relentless lives, and leaving a legacy of hope and empowerment." October began with a journey to Botolan, Zambales, where RC Makati formally supported the Adopt-a-Payao campaign of the Atin Ito! Coalition. These innovative floating structures are designed to attract fish, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for local fishermen. The Club turned over P250,000 to fund the construction of two payaos, a project rooted in sustainability and community development. On October 6, RC Makati launched the Food n Books Program at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. In partnership with the Bolanday Group, this program aims to improve children’s literacy and nutrition. Every Sunday for the next year, children and community members will gather for engaging activities, supported by a Club commitment of P200,000. Later that day, the Club demonstrated its support for youth development by donating P320,000 to the Philippine Gymnastics Association in Intramuros. This funding will boost grassroots gymnastics programs, nurturing young talent and fostering athletic potential among Filipino youth. On October 12, RC Makati brought its environmental advocacy to life at the Sisters of Mary School in Silang, Cavite, with a special screening of A Thousand Forests. This project is more than just a film—it’s an initiative to inspire and empower the next generation to actively combat climate change and preserve our planet." The day didn’t end there. That afternoon, our Clubhouse in Makati transformed into a festive playground for over 120 kids at a Halloween Party. Partnering with Prodigious Philippines, we ensured the children enjoyed an afternoon of fun, laughter, and treats. On October 13, RC Makati, in collaboration with St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, launched the Book Reading & Feeding Program at the Manila South Cemetery. This initiative provides children living in the area with a safe and enriching environment to learn, reflect, and grow, while raising awareness about their rights and providing much-needed resources. The Club continued its service streak with several impactful events: On October 17, A Thousand Forests was screened for 500 students from General Pio del Pilar National High School. October 18 brought Oktoberfest to the Clubhouse, raising over P250,000 for the End Polio campaign. On October 19, President Keith’s signature project, 'RCM Special Magic,' was launched. This initiative supports SPED students, providing teacher and parent training, as well as child assessments, ensuring inclusive education in Makati’s public schools. When Severe Tropical Storm Kristine struck, RC Makati’s Disaster Relief Committee mobilized immediately. Starting October 25, relief goods were distributed in Bauan, Batangas, aiding families in evacuation centers with 160 mats, blankets, and hot meals. Partnerships strengthened our efforts as we joined RC Tuguegarao in distributing relief packs to 500 families in Cagayan and RC Lingayen for aid to 140 families in Pangasinan. In Bay, Laguna, over 300 families received essential items, including mats, blankets, and food packs. Back at the Clubhouse, Rotaractors packed an additional 300 food packs for upcoming distributions. On October 27 and 28, we extended our reach to Talisay and Laurel, Batangas, where landslides had devastated communities. Partnering with Balibago Waterworks, we delivered over 300 food packs and 80 sets of mats and blankets to families in evacuation shelters. With each relief mission, RC Makati reinforced its commitment to serving those in need. October 2024 was a testament to the power of service and solidarity. From disaster relief to educational programs, RC Makati demonstrated that through compassion and action, we can create a brighter future for communities across the Philippines.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bj4BUUHNuyhwTM-WIWvgZWee2lWJ2uk4/view?usp=sharing