President’s Corner

Greetings, my brethren in Rotary!

Following DepEd Secretary Briones’ overwhelming reception from RCM members last week, the need for supporting our Educational System, especially at a time like this, is critical. The number of questions raised and the record extension we had during the open forum was a manifest of the importance of supporting our students ultimately. We continue to keep our eyes and ears open for ways to help our young future leaders to have the best possible education during these very difficult times and as they navigate through what lies ahead.

Speaking of students, Director Albert Alday and I spent our digital Saturday afternoon with the Rotaract team of DLSU-Manila (Animo!). We were both awed by the dynamism of these young leaders. I was very impressed with the dedication and passion they have for Rotary and our common objectives. We walked them through our ongoing activities in broad strokes but zeroed in and made them aware of our Presidential Candidates’ Interviews. They enthusiastically committed to support us with this. Of the total registered voters for 2022, the youth are already accounting for 52% of our electorate. This age group would have vital bearings on the outcome of next year’s election. Hence, it is critical that these young voters be properly educated and guided on making the right choice for next year. Let us hope that we will be able to gather enough of this youth sector to be critically aware of the relevance of next year’s election.

The RCM MMDA PDA RCMFI Vaccination Program has taken off. The formalization has been done with the signing of the MOA which is currently being routed to all the proponents. I cannot overemphasize the importance and value of this project. Let us give credit where it is due. The initiative was made by PE/Chairman Hermie Esguerra with the abled coordination of his dynamic partner, DGE Joyce Ambray. Beyond the link up with MMDA, PE Hermie Esguerra is donating PPEs and other paraphernalia to ensure the dentists will be safe during their “call of duty”. Thank you so much to this Dynamic Duo!

Today, we have a Champion Fighter who has joined the ranks of Philippine Politics taking his springboard leap from the Senate. Talk about rising through the ranks! Most of us are familiar with his unmatched performance in the world of boxing. Question on everybody’s mind: “Will he fare as well in politics?” “Will his immense popularity catapult him to be our next Head of State? If he does win, how will he fare as a National Leader?” We will all get a clearer picture of our Guest of Honor and Speaker’s prospects as he joins and interfaces with us today. Let us welcome him to our forum with open arms, minds and hearts as we learn more about this spectacular man as he makes a bid for what might be the biggest fight of his entire life!!!

Mabuhay ka Sen. Pacquiao! Mabuhay ang RCM! Salamat Po!

Humbly yours in Rotary, FSZ Felix Francisco S. Zaldarriaga President RY 2021-2022