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RC Makati brought the holiday spirit to life in spectacular fashion with its Classical Christmas Concert on December 10 at The Fifth at Rockwell. The grand event welcomed a full house of guests who were treated to an unforgettable evening of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols performed by some of the Philippines’ finest musical talents. The evening commenced with a lively cocktail hour, where guests mingled over fine wine and delectable pass-around hors d’oeuvres. The beautifully decorated hall, adorned with a dazzling LED backdrop, was alive with holiday sights and sounds, instantly immersing everyone in the Christmas spirit. The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO), under the baton of conductor Herminigildo Ranera, opened the concert with a breathtaking rendition of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Throughout the evening, the PPO’s rich and evocative music provided the perfect accompaniment to the stellar performances. The Coro Tomasino Choir, led by Mark Raniel Agpasa, delivered a heavenly choral performance, including the uplifting “For Unto Us a Child is Born.” Their harmonies resonated beautifully, adding an angelic touch to the evening. Renowned soprano Rachelle Gerodias-Park delivered soulful renditions of “What Child is This” and the moving “Light of a Million Mornings.” Her collaborations with the Coro Tomasino Choir on “Angels We Have Heard on High” and “Joy to the World” were unforgettable highlights that showcased her exceptional artistry. International baritone Byeong In Park lent his warm and resonant voice to “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and shared a stunning duet with Rachelle on “Panis Angelicus.” Adding a Filipino flair to the evening, celebrated tenor Sherwin Sozon evoked nostalgia with heartfelt renditions of “Pasko Na Sinta Ko” and “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit,” while the PPO delighted with their lively rendition of “Kumukutikutitap.” Nomher Nival, one of the most sought-after classical soloists, opened his performance with a stirring “Adeste Fideles” and captivated the audience with his powerful rendition of “O Holy Night.” Audience favorite Gerphil Flores-Libanan, a classical crossover singer, brought vibrancy to the stage with her dynamic opening act alongside the Coro Tomasino Choir on “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee.” She dazzled the crowd with solo performances of “What Child is This,” “First of May,” and a spine-tingling rendition of “Ave Maria.” Mezzo-soprano Krissan Manikan-Tan touched hearts with her stirring interpretation of “Stille Nacht.” She later joined Rachelle and Gerphil in a delightful performance of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” The evening concluded with a showstopping ensemble performance of the “Hallelujah Chorus,” where the audience stood and joined in singing, honoring a cherished Christmas tradition. The visionary behind this musical extravaganza was Eduardo “Eddie” H. Yap, a past president of the Rotary Club of Makati. Eddie, known for his creative expertise, developed the concept, production design, and direction for the concert. This marks Eddie’s fourth successful concert for Rotary, following “An Enchanting Evening of Music,” “A Vienna Spring Concert,” and “The Best of Broadway and the Classics.” Eddie’s passion for producing concerts began in 2006 with Adeste Fideles at Santuario, which was hailed as “Rousing Magnificence.” The event was chaired by Tony Lopez, with support from an energetic committee composed of Pres. Keith & First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP Louie Aseoche, PDG Pepz Bengzon, PN Howie Calleja, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, Leo de Leon, PND Chris Ferareza, PE Eddie Galvez, and Paolo Turno. The success of the event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors: TGP Partylist through PP Louie Aseoche, Universal Leaf Philippines Inc. through Dir. Winston Uy, and SGV through Wilson Tan. Additional contributions came from donors and advertisers, including Rante Aguila, Arthur Antonino, Henry Aquende, PP Jun Jun Dayrit, PE Eddie Galvez, James Bosch, PN Howie Calleja, Ramon Garcia, PDG Sid Garcia, Pres. Keith Harrison, Tony Lopez, Dir. Neil Makasiar, PP Bimbo Mills, PP Tito Panlilio, PP Charlie Rufino, Ronnie Siasoyco, Johnny Sy, Dir. Derrick Tan, AJ Violago, Bounty Fresh, Movenpick Resorts Hotel Boracay, W Companies, Ramon Fereros, and Rockwell Land Corporation. More than just a celebration of the season, the Classical Christmas Concert was a charity event that raised funds to benefit indigent students at Sisters of Mary, a school dedicated to providing free, high-quality education to children from impoverished families.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/11dhqZtjv0VD9hmBIwKA64lzJzlfbbhaS/view?usp=sharing

Read more: https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2024/12/05/2405028/rachelle-gerodias-byeong-park-gerphil-flores-lead-classical-christmas-concert/amp/

It was nothing short of magical as over 130 Rotarians and Anns in their spellbinding attire gathered at the Manila Polo Club on December 4 for RC Makati’s 2024 Christmas Party. The evening was filled with fellowship, holiday cheer, and dazzling performances that left everyone in awe. Emceed by newly-appointed President-Nominee Howie Calleja, who also chaired the event, and Dir. Andy Manalac, the celebration began with a heartfelt prayer led by Baby Rotarian Patrick Parungao, setting the mood for an unforgettable evening. This was followed by a quick but warm welcome message from PN Howie. With no time to waste, dinner was served as attendees were serenaded by the Music Making Company. This highly-touted band, originating in the mid-70s, has earned a reputation as one of the most sought-after show bands of their time, adding an air of nostalgia and festivity to the event. The night’s magic was further enhanced with a touch of wonder, befitting the Rotary theme of the year, The Magic of Rotary. Attendees were mesmerized by a captivating performance from MJ the Magician, whose act culminated in a grand reveal—Pres. Keith Harrison appearing as part of the finale. During his message, Pres. Keith thanked the organizers for their hard work in creating such a memorable evening. He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the Club’s future leaders—PE Eddie Galvez, PN Howie Calleja, and PND Chris Ferareza. He expressed his gratitude for the Baby Rotarians present that night, emphasizing their integral role in the Club’s growth and future endeavors. The program turned to one of its pivotal moments—the Cluster Christmas Competition. This year, the Club revived the cluster scheme, but this time divided into four groups based on their home locations, making it easier for members to meet. To add a little competition to the enjoyable night, the organizing committee introduced a contest where each cluster presented a Magical Christmas performance, whether through singing, dancing, or both, showcasing the participation and creativity of their members. Although ranked fourth in the competition, Casterly Rock, representing the BGC and Forbes Park areas, led by PDG Pepz Bengzon and PP Michael Escaler, delighted the audience with a gamely performance of a Christmas Song Medley. Joining the presentation were Chito & Vicky Cantada, Ferdie & Menchit Ordoveza, Billy Del Rosarion, George Drysdale, PND Chris Ferareza, Ai Ai Galvez, Glenn Gatuslao, PP Charlie Rufino, PP Eddie & Dellie Yap and PP Doris Ensomo. Third place went to Highgarden, the team from the South—Paranaque and Alabang areas—headed by PE Eddie Galvez and Dir. Andy Manalac. They performed two songs from the Dave Clark Five, “Because” and “Hurting Inside,” with their Anns enthusiastically cheering them on and even handing them handkerchiefs fan-like to wipe their faces. Joining the lively performance were IPP Bing Matoto, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, Gani Buenaflor, George Haxton, Iñigo Garcia, PE Eddie Galvez, PP Bimbo Mills, PP Fred Parungao, Patrick Parungao and CB Rivilla. The first runner-up was Winterfell, the cluster from the North representing the Pasig and Quezon City areas, led by Dir. Boy Arteche, and Dir. Winston Uy. With the gentlemen clad in all-white outfits and hats and the ladies in red shirts and hats, they performed a spirited sing-and-dance number. Ann Pizza Lou took the microphone for White Christmas, while the rest of the members grooved to the song Let It Snow. Joining the presentation were Bom & Amy Villatuy, Dir. Brian & Kathy Liu, Aaron & Daianne Mempin, Philip & Mita Soliven, Anton Cabrera & Ann Irene Barcelon, Sec. Regi Ponferrada & Ann Caling Young, Paolo Turno & Ann Pizza Lou and DGE Reggie Nolido. The Christmas Competition 2024 Champion title went to Dragonstone, representing the Makati CBD and Rockwell areas. Led by PP Louie Aseoche and PN Howie Calleja, the group dazzled the crowd with their magician outfits and impressive dance moves to the music of A Kind of Magic. Their act included a magical show and a special appearance by Bruno Mars through PP Louie. Joining the performance were PP Cesar Campos and his daughter Maribee, PP Jun Jun & Cecille Dayrit, Michael Hsu & Kash Gana, Tess Aseoche and Marla Calleja. The team was awarded P25,000 and an additional 20 points in the cluster performance tally. The five judges—Pres. Keith & Rachel Harrison, PDG Sid Garcia, Ann Yvonne Kuan, and PDG Tony Quila—faced a challenging task in tabulating the winner. Next on the program shifted to recognizing the clusters’ performances in terms of membership attendance at weekly meetings and recruitment of new members. Under the Membership Recruitment Awards, the top award went to Winterfell, led by Dir. Boy and Dir. Winston, with an impressive total of four recruits, earning them a reward of P25,000. Tied for 2nd Place were Highgarden, led by PE Eddie and Dir. Andy, and Casterly Rock, led by PDG Pepz and PP Michael. Each cluster recruited one new member and shared the P15,000 reward, with each receiving P7,500. For the Membership Engagement Awards, points were awarded based on the percentage of cluster members attending. The more members from a cluster attending, the more points their cluster earned. The top cluster in Membership Engagement was Dragonstone, led by PP Louie and PN Howie, with an impressive 74 points. They received a reward of P25,000, with one of their winning strategies being the successful attendance of two previously missing-in-action members, earning a bonus of 10 points each. Coming in 1st Runner-Up with 71 points—just 3 points behind the top winner—was Casterly Rock, led by PDG Pepz and PP Michael. Next on the program was the awarding of Mr. and Ms. Rotary of the Night, which went to PP Freddie Borromeo for his Harry Potter impression, and Amy Villatuya for her stunning white fairy dress. There were also plenty of raffle prizes, including End Polio bears, Christmas grocery packs, and hotel gift certificates courtesy of St. Giles through Dir. Derrick Tan. Among the grand prize winners were Chito & Vicky Cantada, PP Bimbo & Queenie Mills, and PE Eddie & Trina Galvez. As the night came to a close, the energy remained high, with everyone grooving to the music and dancing the night away. It was a celebration filled with joy, laughter, and holiday cheers, marking a truly unforgettable holiday gathering.

On December 2, 2024, Rc Makati proudly joined hands with RC Cosmopolitan Las Piñas to launch Oh My Gulay, a 120-day vegetables feeding program for malnourished children in TS Cruz Covered Court, Brgy. Almanza Dos, Las Piñas City. This remarkable initiative aims to nourish 44 undernourished children, running from December 2024 until May 2025, with a total project cost of Php 220,000. RCM, as a major sponsor, contributed Php 45,000 to this noble cause. The program is spearheaded by the Federation of Civic and Rotary Associations (FCRA), an NGO dedicated to community development, with the support of the Barangay Health Department. Attendees from RC Makati are Pres. Keith Harrison, PDG Pepito Bengzon with PP Doris Ensomo of RCM San Antonio, and Pres. Brenda of RC Cosmopolitan Las Piñas, alongside representatives from six other supporting Rotary clubs. The event highlighted the Club’s unwavering commitment to community service and collaboration. Partner organizations and volunteers unite with RC Makati to tackle malnutrition through a sustainable approach, provide nourishing meals and instill the value of proper nutrition in children and their families. The Oh My Gulay launch featured heartfelt remarks from key leaders, emphasizing the significance of partnerships in achieving long-term community impact. The feeding program exemplifies how RC Makati’s collaborative spirit and resources can create lasting change in the communities it serves.

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RC Makati, in partnership with Kabisig ng Kalahi, took a significant step forward in addressing child nutrition challenges through its Complementary Nutrition Program, held on November 22, 2024, at P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City. The event was led by Pres. Keith Harrison, accompanied by PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo, IPP Bing Matoto, Dir. Neil Makasiar, Dir. Rodrigo Segura, and Dir. Boy Arteche, and Ann Tess Aseoche. Representing Kabisig ng Kalahi was its president, Ms. Vicky Wieneke, a steadfast advocate of child nutrition and a long-time partner of the club. The program commenced with an inspiring prayer song by Coro Pascualeño, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Teacher and emcee Ms. Marieta Garino warmly welcomed the attendees, while Principal Laarnie Alejandro opened the event with a heartfelt message about the importance of collective action in uplifting the lives of students. Ms. Wieneke followed with an engaging overview of Kabisig ng Kalahi’s complementary feeding initiatives, emphasizing how the government’s Supplementary Feeding Program was inspired by their success. Several members of the club delivered moving messages during the event. PP Freddie highlighted the importance of educating parents on preparing affordable and nutritious meals, enabling children to perform better in school and paving the way for a brighter future. Pres. Keith emphasized the transformative potential of proper nutrition, while Dir. Neil urged participants to take full advantage of the program’s resources, emphasizing the long-term impact on their families’ health and happiness. Dir. Boy reflected on how nurturing healthy children lays the groundwork for a strong and prosperous nation. Dir. Rodrigo drew a creative parallel to the movie Encanto, likening the initiative to the magical transformations made possible through care and dedication. Finally, IPP Bing closed the program with early Christmas cheer, introducing the Club’s Last Angel Gift-Giving Project. Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Rotary Club of Makati, Kabisig ng Kalahi, and P. Villanueva Elementary School also happened, symbolizing a strong partnership aimed at sustaining nutrition and educational efforts. This was followed by the ceremonial “milk toast,” where students received their first glass of milk under the program. Adding joy to the occasion, children were also given age-appropriate toys courtesy of the Last Angel Project, sparking smiles and excitement among the young beneficiaries. The school expressed its gratitude by presenting plaques of appreciation to both RC Makati and Kabisig ng Kalahi for their unwavering support. To cap off the day, the children enjoyed a hearty meal of monggo. After the successful event, fellowship continued at Bulgogi Brothers in Mall of Asia, where PP Freddie and Jojo Borromeo hosted lunch for the Club members and partners, celebrating another impactful milestone in their shared mission of service.

On November 24, 2024, RC Makati, under the leadership of Pres. Keith Harrison and Dir. Boy Arteche, joined forces with the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) to carry out its second Medical Mission of the year. This initiative aimed to provide free elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy and hernia repair surgeries to indigent patients who otherwise could not afford these essential procedures due to their high costs. A total of fifteen patients benefited from this life-changing mission, which highlighted the Rotary club’s steadfast commitment to improving lives through service. The success of the program was made possible by an outstanding team of medical professionals, including eight General Surgery (GS1) consultants led by Team Captain Dr. Emil Borgonia and Dra. Patricia Lagrosa. Supporting them were two GS3 fellows, fourteen General Surgery residents, five anesthesiologists, and a dedicated team of nurses, nursing assistants, and utility personnel. This mission builds on the success of the club’s first surgical initiative held earlier this year on August 18, which focused on breast surgeries and provided care to ten patients. Through these missions, RC Makati continues to exemplify its dedication to making healthcare accessible to underserved communities. By providing essential surgical care, the club brings hope and lasting change to the lives of those who need it most.

Catanduanes, one of the provinces hardest hit by Super Typhoon Pepito, was left reeling from widespread devastation. Homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods were destroyed, leaving countless families in dire need. As soon as communication lines were restored, the RC Makati Disaster Relief Team, led by Dir. Chris Ferareza and Dir. Johnny Ang, responded swiftly to an urgent call for assistance from RC Virac. On November 22, the team sprang into action, with CoS Ron Dotaro arriving in Virac early in the morning. He was met at the airport by RC Virac members, including Pres. Aurora Araojo and PP Betia Aquino-de Leon. Together, they proceeded to the Immaculate Conception Seminary, where relief goods were repacked with the support of Bishop Luisito Ocsiano. From there, the team made the arduous two-hour journey north to Pandan, navigating through scenes of destruction—houses, posts, and trees reduced to rubble. The first stop was at St. Ignatius Parish, where 450 food packs, donated by RC Naga, were distributed to families whose lives were upended by the typhoon. The next stop was at Mary Mother of Good Counsel Parish, where relief goods were distributed to 300 families in Brgy. Tariwara. The remaining supplies were turned over to the parish for further distribution to Brgys. Canlubi, Hiyok, and Baldok, ensuring that help reached even more affected families. In total, RC Makati, in partnership with RC Virac, facilitated the distribution of relief goods to 750 families, amounting to approximately P250,000. The funding for this vital initiative came from the generous contributions of RC Makati members that reached over P900,000 earlier this month.

In an unprecedented show of support and fellowship, a 29-member delegation from RC Makati, including members, their Anns, and family, embarked on a memorable journey to Taiwan. This impressive turnout, rarely seen outside of Rotary International Conventions, marked a historic moment as the group traveled to celebrate the 63rd charter anniversary of RC Makati’s sister club, the Rotary Club of Taoyuan. Coordinating the arrival of such a large group was no small feat, as members traveled on different schedules, making it a logistical challenge for the host club. Despite this, RC Taoyuan exhibited outstanding hospitality, ensuring that every arrival was warmly welcomed and thoughtfully accommodated. Michael Hsu, Paolo Turno, and Henry & Marga Aquende were the first to arrive, touching down in Taiwan a week before the official program began. On the morning of November 4, another group consisting of PP Louie & Tess Aseoche, Chito & Vicky Cantada, Johnny Ang, and Yvonne Kuan, along with friends Sandra Cheng and Rowena Padpad, arrived and were greeted at the airport by members of RC Taoyuan. The Parungaos—PP Fred & Mely, joined by Patrick & Mitzi—followed later that evening. On November 5, another batch of delegates arrived, led by Pres. Keith & First Ann Rachel Harrison, PP JunJun & Cecille Dayrit, Derrick & Jane Tan with their son Mark, and CoS Ron Dotaro. They were followed by PE Eddie & Trina Galvez, IPP Bing Matoto, and Cat Rufino in the evening. PP Carlo Rufino rounded up the delegation on November 6, just in time for the grand Charter celebration. Those who arrived early were treated to the fullest extent by RC Taoyuan’s hospitality. They enjoyed a delightful beer dinner at Blue Jazz and, the following day, explored Dadaocheng, including a tour of the Taipei Railway Museum, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, and the bustling local market. Delegates arriving on November 5 were welcomed with a sumptuous lunch at the Monarch Plaza Hotel, where most of the group was accommodated. On the evening of November 5, the delegation gathered on the third floor of the Monarch Plaza Hotel for RC Taoyuan’s first official event, the Welcome Dinner. This lively gathering brought together Rotarians from Japan and Korea, who are also sister clubs of RC Taoyuan. The evening began with a captivating dance performance by the Anns of RC Taoyuan, followed by brief messages from Pres. Vision and the international directors of each participating club, including RC Makati’s Dir. Derrick Tan. Highlights of the evening included an exchange of gifts, where RC Makati presented a certificate for the reef buds, the 60th-anniversary coffee table book, and a $2,000 donation to RC Taoyuan’s projects. RC Taoyuan reciprocated with thoughtful tokens for all their guests, making everyone feel appreciated. The evening culminated in music, dancing, and an abundance of toasts—a hallmark of RC Taoyuan’s reputed hospitality. On November 6, the delegation immersed themselves in Taiwan’s rich history and culture with a tour of the National Palace Museum in Taipei. Home to nearly 700,000 Chinese artifacts and artworks, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into centuries of heritage. This was followed by a delightful lunch at Silks Palace, where exceptional cuisine and fellowship took center stage. The 63rd Charter Anniversary Gala unfolded in the evening at Royal-Wedding Events Place in Taoyuan. The event commenced with a soulful performance by the Vox Nativa Children’s Choir, featuring aboriginal children from Taiwan’s Jade Mountain region. Their pure and harmonious voices set an awe-inspiring tone for the celebration. The formal program began with heartfelt messages from PP Realty (Lu Li-Xian), the Chair of the Event, Pres. Vision (Zeng Zhen-Lian), and DG Rehouse (Chen Ching-Hsiu). During his address, Pres. Keith Harrison highlighted RC Makati’s several significant collaborations with RC Taoyuan, including the latest scholarship initiative at Dualtech. He expressed hope that our Club can reciprocate the kindness and generosity of RC Taoyuan by being host to a large delegation next year to celebrate RC Makati’s 59th Charter Anniversary. The evening concluded in true RC Taoyuan fashion—with lively drinking, singing, and dancing. The RC Makati delegation enthusiastically joined the festivities, taking to the stage and dance floor to celebrate the occasion. This remarkable trip epitomized the Rotary spirit of fellowship and service. RC Taoyuan’s warm hospitality, combined with the enthusiasm of the RC Makati delegation, made the 63rd Charter Anniversary of RC Taoyuan an unforgettable experience and a testament to the formidable partnership between the two clubs.

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