President Bobby Joseph: A Prime Mover and Walking Miracle

For someone who has already accomplished so much—not just for himself, his family and the organizations he is leading, but also for the community, the environment, and the country—it is but fitting to admire how President Bobby Joseph still wishes he could be an improved version of himself.

At 70, President Joseph isn’t standing still. He’s always on the move, pouring his passion, energy, and commitment into various projects, even during this pandemic. If he’s not joining Zoom meetings, he’s attending functions and events, especially the “Save the Manila Bay” project, which he has been involved for two years now.

An entrepreneur, tourism and environmental advocate, diplomat (Honorary Consul of the Republic of Latvia to the Philippines since 1994), author, motivational speaker, and a champion of admirable causes, there’s just no stopping a passionate and dedicated leader like Bobby Joseph.

Because of his various projects and engagements, you won’t think he’s been battling stage four cancer for nearly 20 years. He lives his life with joy, positivity, and enthusiasm. Considering himself a walking miracle, he always starts and ends his day with prayers, grateful for each day.

President Joseph is an exemplar Rotarian who lives the Club’s motto of “Service Above Self”. He lives a purposeful life, and his passion and perseverance to serve others becomes his daily habit. He also encourages, motivates, and inspires people everywhere he goes.

To me, meeting Mr. Bobby Joseph last year was a great blessing. Talking to him is always a privilege. Collaborating with him is a blast!

Know more about this incredible man as he shares his thoughts and wisdom.

Rhea Vitto Tabora (RVT): How meaningful and challenging is it to be the leader of Rotary Club of Manila?

Robert Lim Joseph (RLJ): It is very challenging because it is transformational and purpose-driven to make a difference. And it is not limited to RCM; we also get involved with District 3810, other districts in the country, and sister clubs overseas because of our Ambassador Program. We forge lifelong friendships, encourage volunteerism, and adhere to our core values and moral principles to share and serve the marginalized, protect the environment, support education, and help the street children.

RVT: What made you fall in love with the travel and tourism industry? Why are you so passionate about this sector?

RLJ: Tourism and transportation are among the most challenging industries that require passion, vigor, and vitality. Creativity and networking across the globe are the true essence of productivity through perseverance and humility.

RVT: Many articles have been written about you being a survivor. You have surpassed various challenges and adversities – both in your industry and personal life (health). Where do you get your strength? What keeps you going?

RLJ: Gratitude and prayers on a daily basis. Every day is a special day, and I am always thankful to God and Mama Mary for my life. And I am always inspired to make a difference to serve the micro enterprises and the academe.

RVT: What are your success habits?

RLJ: Staying focused in my projects and programs, having the right network, and always being grateful, persevering, and making things right with God’s blessings.

RVT: What are you most proud of?

RLJ: Seeing people happy. Being a catalyst of change by motivating others to succeed and stay humble.

RVT: What was one cool thing you did when you were a teenager?

RLJ: Being different by taking summer jobs since the age of 13, selling items to my classmates, and being a head cheerleader for eight years from high school to college.

RVT: If you could sit down with your 21-year-old self, what would you tell him?

RLJ: I would tell my younger self to study more, improve martial arts for self-discipline, and stay cool and caring.

RVT: You have already accomplished so much. What else is in your bucket list?

RLJ: To be able to expand our Paraiso Village Farm Tourism Project; expand our International School for Sustainable Tourism, and continue saving Manila Bay for the next six years.

Note: President Joseph, together with Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto, is involved in the Paraiso Village Farm Tourism Project, a sustainable farm tourism in San Jose, Batangas. He also serves as vice-chair of the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST), with former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor as president. Save Manila Bay is a project he launched during his term as Commodore of the Manila Yacht Club, together with DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu, and in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Manila. While much work has been done, President Joseph said it will take six years for this project to be completed.

RVT: What is one piece of advice you can give today’s leaders?

RLJ: You have to be servant leaders, purpose-driven, and uphold the moral principles that are badly needed in the country. You have to promote integrity, goodwill, and peace.

RVT: Which one thing in your life do you wish you had done differently?

RLJ: To be an improved version of myself.