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As RC Makati marks its 60th year, one of its most forward-looking initiatives is set to launch this September: the RC Makati AI Academy (RCMAIA)—a transformative program aimed at empowering underprivileged senior high school students and out-of-school youth through hands-on training in artificial intelligence and data science. The Academy offers a four-and-a-half month intensive training program built on three pillars: Education, Empowerment, and Employment. It combines technical instruction with real-world applications, preparing students to develop AI-driven solutions and pursue meaningful careers in the digital economy. On July 18, the RCMAIA committee—led by President Eddie Galvez, Dir. Roger Collantes, Dir. Patrick Parungao, PP Bing Matoto, Rodrigo Segura, and PP Charlie Rufino—visited the Sisters of Mary School in Silang, Cavite. The team spent the day interviewing 50 students as candidates for the program’s pilot run. The visit also included the formal signing of a partnership agreement with Kadakareer, the Academy’s key collaborator and implementation partner. Kadakareer will oversee the delivery of training modules and provide ongoing student support throughout the learning process. A second round of interviews took place on August 1, with 30 additional students. Joining Pres. Eddie and Dir. Roger were PN/Dir. Chris Ferareza and Sec/Dir. Philip Soliven for this screening session. Preparations for the learning space also progressed on July 25, when the committee met with Architect Don Lino to finalize the layout and interior design of the facility located on the 2nd floor of the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center, the Academy’s official training hub. Support Building Momentum Community support has been quick to follow. Through PN/Dir. Chris Ferareza, the Far Eastern University Alumni Association donated eight computers. Dir. Andy Manalac contributed to the purchase of ten more units, while Winston Uy, Johnson Tan, and Ai-Ai Galvez have pledged donations to further support the Academy’s initial rollout. The program will officially launch this September, welcoming 70 students from the Sisters of Mary School and RC Makati’s Rotaractors, in collaboration with Kadakareer. A second batch of 70 students is scheduled for training within the Rotary year, expanding the program’s reach and long-term impact. After completing their classroom training, students will move on to on-the-job experience, applying their new skills in actual workplace settings. RC Makati is inviting companies from its membership and partner network to host students for OJT placements and potential future employment. The Team Behind the Vision The RCMAIA is guided by a dedicated team of Rotarians: Dir. Roger Collantes, Dir. Patrick Parungao, Dir. Paolo Turno, PN/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Dir. Philip Soliven, Bom Villatuya, Rodrigo Segura, PP Bing Matoto, and Pres. Eddie Galvez. A Legacy of Innovation and Inclusion More than just a training program, the RC Makati AI Academy represents a powerful commitment to innovation, opportunity, and inclusive growth. As we near the launch, excitement continues to build for what promises to be a milestone in RC Makati’s mission of service and transformation.

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With three typhoons simultaneously hovering over the Philippines for more than a week, the southwest monsoon—or Habagat—was significantly intensified, triggering widespread flooding in many regions. In swift response, the Rotary Club of Makati mobilized its disaster relief arm, now known as the Hope Mission, to bring urgent assistance to the hardest-hit communities. The first wave of relief took place on 22 July, as torrential rains continued to fall. The RC Makati Hope Mission team—led by Chair Nicky Ramos, together with PP Jun-Jun Dayrit, IPP Keith Harrison, and baby Rotarian Yaron Hahami—braved the flooded streets of Tondo, Manila to deliver aid. A total of 60 sets of mats and blankets were distributed to evacuees in Brgy. 105, Zone 8, following a call for help from Jane Walker of the Upskills Foundation. An additional 40 sets were turned over for families in GK Smokey Mountain, coordinated by Ann Cecille Dayrit, for scheduled distribution once roads become accessible. Back at the RC Makati Clubhouse, relief preparation was in full swing. On the same day, Rotaractors led by DRR Nico dela Cruz gathered to repack 400 food packs, ensuring a steady stream of aid for the next missions. On 23 July, the Hope Mission team—now joined by Pres. Eddie Galvez, Boy Arteche, Chair Nicky Ramos, Dir. CB and Meg Rivilla with their son Mari, and RAC Makati PP AJ Sembrano—returned to Manila to distribute relief goods to 175 families in GK Baseco, where many homes remain underwater. This effort was again coordinated through Ann Cecille. Day 3 of the Hope Mission, held on 24 July, brought the team—Chair Nicky Ramos, PN/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Dir, CB and Meg Rivilla with Mari, and baby Rotarian Carlos Prieto—to Victoria, Laguna, where they distributed food packs to 200 families still affected by flooding. This leg of the mission was made possible through a partnership with the Missionari Della Fede School, facilitated by Director CB Rivilla. On 25 July, the Hope Mission team took a well-earned break from field distribution to replenish supplies by resuming on the repacking of 400 food packs at the RC Makati Clubhouse with the valuable support of our Rotaract volunteers, joined by Ann Sue Ann Nolido. Meanwhile, with worsening weather conditions expected up north, RC Makati acted swiftly to extend its support to Dagupan. The Club sent 235 sets of mats and blankets and 15 food packs, intended for 250 families staying at evacuation centers. The relief goods were distributed on the same day, 25 July, in partnership with RC Dagupan, led by Pres. Larry Sarito. On 26 July, the Hope Mission team—led by Pres. Eddie Galvez, PN/Dir. Chris Ferareza, Yaron Hahami, IPP Bing Matoto and Chair Nicky Ramos—headed to Tanza 2, Navotas, a community still largely unreached by relief efforts. Staying true to the Induction theme, it felt like Mission Impossible: the goal was to deliver the goods before high tide, or risk getting stranded until the water receded. Upon receiving word that the floodwaters were still passable by van, the team set off at 8:00 AM, only to be delayed by traffic due to a scheduled visit by President Marcos in the area. Adding urgency, they were warned that water levels could rise to shoulder-deep by 10:00 AM, cutting off access back. Without delay, 250 sets of mats and blankets and 100 food packs were unloaded and turned over to Angat Navotas, RC Makati’s local partner, who would carry out distribution across multiple evacuation centers inaccessible due to flooding. The day’s mission didn’t end there. Joined by IPP Keith Harrison, the team proceeded to Luneta, where they distributed 70 food packs to families supported through Bolanday, and turned over another 50 food packs for the Happyland community in Tondo. Simultaneously, in Nanguneg, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, another wave of relief reached 300 flood-affected families. In partnership with RC Narvacan, led by Pres. Richard Gomez and coordinated by PP Arnel Cabatu, goods were delivered by raft to isolated communities. The Hope Mission breached the ₱500,000 mark in total relief assistance on 27 July, as Chair Nicky Ramos and Yaron Hahami proceeded to San Isidro, Bay, Laguna. The first stop was Brgy. San Isidro, where 100 food packs containing rice, canned goods, and slippers were distributed to families who had opted to remain in their homes despite the flooding. The mission continued to San Isidro Elementary School, where 100 families staying at the evacuation center received mats, blankets, and slippers. Both missions were conducted in close partnership with RC Makati’s brother club, RC Bay, led by Pres. DJ Quirino. In the span of just six days, from July 22 to 27, the RC Makati Hope Mission reached a total of 1,795 families, distributing 1,020 food packs, 695 sets of mats and blankets, and 200 pairs of slippers—amounting to ₱544,700 worth of assistance. As the rains persist and floodwaters remain in many areas, RC Makati stands firm in its mission to serve. The Hope Mission is not only about delivering goods—it’s about delivering love, care, and above all, hope. The *RC Makati Hope Mission has now breached the ₱500,000 mark in relief assistance* with today’s operations, July 27, in San Isidro, Bay, Laguna. The first stop was at Brgy. San Isidro where 100 food packs containing rice, canned goods, and slippers were distributed to families who chose to remain in their homes despite the flooding. The mission then proceeded to San Isidro Elementary School, where 100 families staying at the evacuation center received mats, blankets, and slippers. Both missions were carried out in partnership with our brother club, RC Bay. With the sun finally out for most of the day, we are now wrapping up this phase of the Hope Mission. In the span of six days, from July 22 to 27, the *mission reached a total of 1,795 families, distributing 1,020 food packs, 695 sets of mats and blankets, and 200 pairs of slippers—amounting to ₱544,700 worth of assistance.* As we close out this initial episode of the Hope Mission, RC Makati extends heartfelt thanks to Disaster Relief Chair Nicky Ramos for overseeing every aspect of the effort—from site selection and partner coordination to procurement. We also thank Dir. Chris Ferareza for his steady guidance under the Community Service Directorate. We are grateful to the members who joined the field missions: Pres. Eddie Galvez, Yaron Hahami, CB and Meg Rivilla with Mari, IPP Keith Harrison, Carlos Prieto, and PP Bing Matoto. Our appreciation also goes to our Rotaractors who devoted two full days to the repacking of goods, as well as to Sue Ann Nolido who joined one of the repacking sessions. A special thank-you to Taba Samson for the donation of slippers. We likewise acknowledge the invaluable support of our partners on the ground: RC Bay, RC Narvacan, RC Dagupan, Angat Navotas, Bolanday, Upskills Foundation, GK Baseco, GK Smokey Mountain, and Missionari Della Fede School. The Hope Mission delivered not just relief goods—but most importantly a message of hope, love, and care from the Rotary Club of Makati to the communities we served.

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In a moving expression of service above self, RC Makati celebrated the birthday of PDG Pepz Bengzon by transforming the occasion into a full-scale Health Mission on July 21, 2025, at The Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club. Far from the usual festivities, the day became one of healing and compassion as 188 patients received vital medical services during a comprehensive Medical, Dental, Optical, Dermatological, and Cancer Screening outreach. Organized by RC Makati and powered by collaboration with RC Makati San Antonio, 1Filipino, 1Life, the Philippine Cancer Society, the City Government of Carmona, Cavite, and The Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club, the mission addressed a wide range of healthcare needs with dedication and care. With medical leadership from Dr. Ian Laurel and Dr. Arnel Acsay, and the hands-on involvement of PDG Pepz himself, the initiative brought quality healthcare directly to those who need it most, free of charge. The breadth of services delivered was remarkable: 145 women received breast and cervical screenings, with 110 undergoing Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) tests and 7 detected with breast masses. Laboratory diagnostics were equally extensive, with 107 complete blood counts, 83 ECGs, 101 urinalyses, 87 chest x-rays, and 187 blood chemistry tests conducted. The Optical Department served 94 individuals, and 92 patients were given free prescription (19) and reading (73) eyeglasses. Meanwhile, 50 patients benefited from dental services, and 32 received dermatological consultations. With an estimated cost of ₱25,000 per patient, the impact of the mission reached into the millions in value, yet it was offered with no cost to those served. Adding to the spirit of the event, PDG Pepz was joined by fellow Rotarians and close friends PP Doris Ensomo, Rodrigo Segura, and Boy Arteche, who stood beside him in blending personal celebration with meaningful service. The day concluded with a warm and appreciative lunch hosted by PDG Pepz, honoring the medical teams, volunteers, and partners who made the mission possible.

On July 11, the historic Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila became the site of this high-stakes operation. The ballroom was packed—wall to wall with agents of goodwill, partners in service, and our ever-supportive Anns. The program? Sharp. Engaging. No dead air. Speeches inspired more than applause—they provoked thought, reflection, and purpose. The food? Top secret recipe: delicious and disarming. Leading the mission was our new President, Eddie Galvez, backed by his elite team of officers and agents, with the ceremony expertly navigated by Induction Chaircouple Neil & Camille Makasiar and his adviser DS Louie Aseoche ensured every detail was mission-ready. The program started on the dot, as expected from a Club that runs like clockwork. In true RC Makati tradition, the lechon parade made its grand entrance, followed by the ceremonial carving. Leading the ritual was PP Freddie Borromeo, who explained that the carving must begin from the head and move to the tail—symbolizing friendship that flourishes from beginning to end. Joining him at the carving were Pres. Eddie, DG Reggie Nolido, and IPP Keith Harrison, completing the honorary lineup for this beloved tradition. The formal program emceed by Rtn. Andre de Jesus alongside Patrixia Santos, began with an invocation led by PP Fred Parungao, who offered gratitude for the Club’s blessings—its resources and properties that enable service, the gift of leadership, a high-performing admin staff, and committed members. He asked for divine guidance for President Eddie and the new Board: to lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and show compassion for those in need. Up next was the welcome remarks from Chaircouple Neil & Camille Makasiar, who—tongue-in-cheek—shared a golden rule of RC Makati: “If you are given a task, the only answer is: Yes, Sir!” A message delivered with wit, charm, and the quiet authority of two people who had just executed one of the most memorable Inductions in recent history. Then came the delicate operation of acknowledging dignitaries, district officers, and sister and brother clubs—dutifully handled by PDG Pepz Bengzon. What might be daunting for most was delivered with the cool composure and polish of a seasoned operative. For him, it was just another routine execution. Dinner was no ordinary affair. It began with a surprise entrance of waiters, dressed in crisp white and sporting dark sunglasses—looking every bit like secret agents on a covert mission. With synchrony and flair, they delivered plates to the tables with military-like precision, drawing amused applause from the audience. As the guests dove into the delectable courses, The Plug Band performed live to whet everyone’s appetite—a musical teaser to the high-energy party that would follow the formal program. Then came the inspiring speeches. Introduced by PDG Sid Garcia, DG Reggie Nolido took the stage and, without hesitation, declared: “Ang galing-galing ng RC Makati!” He highlighted the Club’s many accomplishments with pride—but also noted how it remained grounded and humble, to the playful jeers and laughter from the crowd. This was followed by the recognition of 43 Paul Harris Fellows, led by PDG Tony Quila. Each awardee, symbolizing a deep commitment to The Rotary Foundation and its global mission, was individually recognized. Among them were: Pres. Eddie Galvez under the name of his late brother, Francis Galvez, and for his children Beatriz and Nathan; PP Keith Harrison, Anton Alcantara, PDG Sid Garcia, Neil Makasiar, Yaron Hahami, Michael del Carmen, Gov. Reggie Nolido, PP Carlo Rufino, PDG Pepz Bengzon, Makoto Numata, Dir. Derrick Tan, Dir. CB Rivilla IV, PP Roland Young, Peter Manzano, Johnny Sy, PP Tito Panlilio, Paquito Dizon, Ann Luli de Leon, Andrew Prieto, Philip Soliven, Dir. Michael Hsu, PN Chris Ferareza, PP/DS Louie Aseoche, PP Bimbo Mills, Amb. Melvin Castelino, Arthur Antonino, PP Fred Pascual, Johnson Tan, Freddie Placino, PP Bing Matoto, Winston Uy, PE Howie Calleja, PP Michael Escaler, Dir. Roger Collantes, Rante Aguila, PP Eddie Yap, PP JunJun Dayrit, George Barcelon, James Bosch, AJ Violago and Mon Diokno. Then came one of the night’s major highlights. Introduced by BIR Commissioner Jun Lumagui, himself a proud member of RC Makati, Hon. Alfredo “Ben” S. Caguioa, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, took to the stage. With wit and charm, he reflected on the Rotary Four-Way Test — delivered earlier by PP Bing Matoto — as it applies to public service, emphasizing that public servants must remember they are there to serve, not to be served. The evening then transitioned into the formal induction ceremony. The emcee presented the incoming directors, officers, and advisers, who stood ready to take the mantle of leadership. PP Jun-Jun Darit administered the charging of the Board, followed by the swearing-in of the new Board by DG Reggie Nolido. The symbolic turnover of leadership was meaningfully annotated by PDG Tony Quila, marking a seamless and dignified transfer of responsibility and trust. One of the night’s most anticipated highlights came next. DS Louie Aseoche was tasked with introducing the new president and he delivered the introduction with trademark wit. He jokingly noted that the basis for the profile was a one-page résumé—triple-spaced—true to President Eddie’s style as a man of few words. Beyond the formal accomplishments, DS Louie gave a more personal perspective, highlighting Eddie’s role as the presumptive leader of the Barcino group, a not-so-secret circle within RC Makati whose members, like dominoes, eventually find themselves becoming Club President. He also shared fun trivia—Eddie loves dancing and golf, though he’s unsure whether either loves him back. DS Louie ended on a heartfelt note, saying that in this milestone 60th year, it was a cosmic design and divine guidance that led to Eddie’s presidency—a leader who will carry forward the excellence RC Makati is known for. Pres. Eddie Galvez then took center stage and delivered his inaugural speech—sincere, heartfelt, and humble. He began by expressing thanks: to his classmates who remain close friends, to the Galvez family, to his Rotary classmates, and to the members and Anns of RC Makati, who, he joked, had “penalized” him with the presidency. He gave special thanks to the organizers of the Induction Ball, and saved his most tender appreciation for his “hun” Trina Galvez, and their children, Nathan and Bea. He honored the rich legacy of the Club and its past leaders, acknowledging how each has built upon the other to make the Club what it is today. Looking forward, he outlined two key initiatives he intends to pursue this year: the AI Academy—which will provide underprivileged youth access to tech-forward education—and a project focused on Human Trafficking and Online Abuse. He closed with a moving insight: that in every project they take on, members often find that they are the ones transformed. “It is us who are uplifted,” he shared, “and in the process, we uplift humanity as a whole.” As a continuation of a tradition which started during the presidency of DS Louie Aseoche, the Induction Ball once again featured a mini-movie presentation, this year with a thrilling Mission Impossible theme. The film was cleverly carved into the program in three parts. The first part, shown before the Call to Order, featured Agent 0059 aka IPP Keith receiving his mission to recruit none other than Ethan Hunt, a.k.a. Pres. Eddie, to become the next President of RC Makati. The second part aired just before the turnover ceremony, portraying the official passing of missions to Pres. Eddie. The final installment, screened immediately after his inaugural speech, concluded with the successful delivery of the Club’s banner and gavel—mission accomplished. With the final mission clip concluding, the program, superbly engineered by ActsEvents Management, transitioned into full celebration mode with a three-part dance number performed by the Members and Anns. Choreographed to entertain and inspire, the performance was filled with energy, humor, and heart—showcasing the Club’s vibrant camaraderie. Then came the party—spirited, loud, and unforgettable. Laughter filled the ballroom, the dance floor came alive, and the night turned into morning in the best way possible. As tradition dictates, the celebration didn’t end there. The presidential breakfast capped off the festivities, with champorado and pares served hot and hearty—refueling guests and feeding the night with even more energy. Mission One—Completed. The agents have assembled. The course is set. And if the 60th Induction Ball was any indication—this Rotary year is going to be legendary.

A night of legacy, leadership, and new beginnings! Held at the iconic - The Peninsula Manila, the Rotary Club of Makati celebrated its 60th Induction Ball last 11th of July 2025 with elegance, purpose, and heartfelt camaraderie. Witness the turnover of leadership, inspiring speeches, performances, and unforgettable moments as we honor six decades of service above self.

A Night of Warmth and Fellowship | RC Makati Welcome Dinner – July 10, 2025 On July 10, 2025, the Rotary Club of Makati proudly hosted a Welcome Dinner at the RCM Clubhouse to honor and receive our visiting guest clubs. The evening was a celebration of Rotary’s enduring spirit of fellowship, where members and guests from diverse backgrounds came together in an atmosphere of warmth, unity, and shared purpose. Thoughtfully organized, the event provided an opportunity for meaningful engagement, as Rotarians exchanged ideas, experiences, and aspirations for future collaboration. The program featured welcome remarks from club leaders, a symbolic exchange of club banners, and a carefully curated dinner that blended tradition with hospitality—underscoring the values that define Rotary service. The dinner served not only as a gesture of goodwill but also as a reaffirmation of the deep connections that bind Rotary clubs across borders. It was an inspiring gathering that reflected our collective commitment to “Service Above Self,” and a testament to the power of fellowship in advancing our shared mission. As conversations flowed and friendships deepened, the evening laid the groundwork for continued cooperation, future projects, and a strengthened global Rotary community. It was a night to remember—rooted in tradition, guided by purpose, and filled with the promise of impact through unity.

Relive the unforgettable moments of the RC Makati Club Awards 2025!  Watch the highlights and celebrate the incredible achievements of this year’s honorees.

On June 14, 2025, a meaningful milestone was achieved through the collaborative efforts of the Rotary Club of Makati, Rotary Club of Cheonan Ssangbong, and Rotary International Districts 3830 (Philippines) and 3620 (Korea). This video captures the turnover of a CNC Lathe Machine (GG2567140) to the Dualtech Training Center Foundation Inc.—a project aimed at strengthening technical-vocational education and opening doors to brighter futures for students. Enjoy watching of this impactful event and see how international collaboration brings lasting change.

Rotary clubs are each unique—shaped by the communities they serve and the advocacies they champion. One such club is our brother from the south—the Rotary Club of Zamboanga City West—renowned for delivering clean, accessible water to communities in need. On June 11, a large delegation from RC Makati—led by President Keith and Rachel Harrison—journeyed to Zamboanga. With them were PP Louie and Tess Aseoche, Jay Bernardo, PE Eddie Galvez, Director Neil and Camille Makasiar, incoming Directors CB Rivilla and Paolo Turno with Christine, and our baby Rotarians: Anton Cabrera, Ambassador Melvin Castelino, and Aaron Mempin. Welcomed by RC Zamboanga City West President Rey Ariño, and hosted for breakfast by PDG James and Tess Makasiar, the team wasted no time and set off on a scenic journey to Sitio Niyog-Niyog. There, they met students and community members whose lives were about to change. During a short but meaningful program, PP Nanding Yu shared the project background. President Keith highlighted Rotary’s mission and RC Makati’s commitment to water access in Zamboanga. Ambassador Melvin expressed joy in witnessing the power of service, encouraging young students to pursue education. PE Eddie congratulated RC Zamboanga City West and shared excitement for more collaborations to come. President Rey, in turn, expressed deep gratitude for the partnership—now on its second water project. A formal Memorandum of Agreement was signed by both Clubs and the barangay, who will manage the facility moving forward. Just a few meters away stood the newly constructed communal water station—a ₱230,000 project, partially funded by RC Makati with ₱160,000. This solar-powered facility will serve 189 students and nearby residents with clean, reliable water. It features a 100-foot deep well with durable PVC casing and a 1HP AC/DC submersible pump, delivering up to 2 cubic meters of water per hour. This is the second water project co-implemented by the two Clubs, following the Simanta Elementary School initiative last year that benefitted over 200 families. The day ended with a boodle-style lunch, hosted by the community—an expression of heartfelt thanks and fellowship. On the road back, stories emerged. Sitio Niyog-Niyog was once marked by conflict and recruitment by extremist groups. Today, it is more peaceful—its transformation powered by sustained presence, service, and hope. Two years. Two water projects. Countless lives touched. RC Makati and RC Zamboanga City West continue to prove that partnerships rooted in service create lasting, life-changing impact.