President's Diary

My dear fellow Manila Rotarians,

Even though I am not physically present for our 37th and 38th Weekly Membership Meetings, I want to assure you that my heart is with our Rotary Club of Manila - the first Club in Asia. As some of you may know, I am currently in South Korea, visiting our sister club, the Rotary Club of Sang Ju Central, and attending the DISCON of RI District 3630 and RI District 3661. I am honored to represent our Club at these important events, which serve to strengthen our ties with other Rotary clubs and foster international relations.

In November 2022, we had the honor of hosting members of the Rotary Club of Sang Ju Central. During their visit, we collaborated on several impactful projects, showcasing our shared commitment to the Rotary values of service, integrity, and fellowship. We also showed them our flagship project, the Pasig River Clean-up and Rehabilitation Project, where we installed floating trash barriers in the estuaries of the river. Our flagship project also involves obtaining a Global Grant to buy an aquatic trash skimmer vessel that will collect the trapped floating trash in the Pasig River. We are working in collaboration with RC Sang Ju Central on this endeavor.

During my visit to South Korea, I eagerly look forward to participating in our sister club's international projects and exploring potential Global Grant partnerships. These valuable collaborations will not only benefit our club and local community but also expand our impact across the globe as we work hand-in-hand with fellow Rotarians. Upon my return, I look forward to sharing my experiences with you and discussing the lessons, ideas, and insights gathered during the two DISCONs. In the meantime, I am happy to share with you the events and activities of the past week.

Conferment of My Honorary Membership to RC Manila Bay

Thursday, 27 April 2023, 7:00 p.m.

I was granted Honorary Membership to RC Manila Bay on April 27, 2023. During the RC Manila Bay membership meeting, I delivered a message, and I was charged by PP Jackie Cruz and inducted by club PLP William Yu. The club's BOD, officers, and members were present, as well as PP Senator Koko Pimentel, who witnessed the conferment. The event was followed by a delightful fellowship that included food, drinks, and songs. My Honorary membership was proposed by SDG Andrew Buencamino.

Alignment meeting for 2023 Global Grant project implementation

2 May 2023

Grant Chairman Aries Balanay, Project Chairman Joel Valdes (who is now in San Francisco, USA), and I had an alignment meeting for the 2023 Global Grant project implementation which was essential in helping us move forward with our project.

As we continue our journey together, I urge each of you to actively partake in our Rotary events and projects. Let us carry our noble calling with pride, and appreciate those who contribute tirelessly to our club's success. In the spirit of "Service Above Self," let us all continue to exemplify Rotary's core values and make a positive impact in our communities.

Yours in Rotary service,

Pres. Hermie Esguerra