18th Weekly Membership Meeting: A Recap

Program Moderator

SAA Nagi Zeitouni was the week’s Program Moderator who navigated the flow of the meeting. He began by inviting Manila Rotarians to be seated to give way for the meeting to officially commence.

Call to Order

Sounding the bell, Pres. Rafael “Raffy” M. Alunan III called the 18th weekly membership meeting to order.

Invocation

BLA Raoul C. Creencia led the invocation. The prayer, in part, said: “We pray that you instill in us all the values and virtues of humility, understanding, the ability to forgive ourselves, and the capacity to forgive our brothers who may have wronged us, wittingly or unwittingly; and may our act of forgiveness and humble submission to your will, be our first act of service, and may it be a defining moment of our being a Manila Rotarian.”

Philippine National Anthem / RCM Hymn

Manila Rotarians and guests took a position of respect as they sang the Philippine National Anthem. This was followed by the singing of the RCM Hymn.

4-Way Test

Rotarians were again reminded of their commitment to live by the 4-Way Test, with the recitation of this mantra led by PD Issam Eldebs.

The Rotary Club of Manila Hymn and Welcome Song

The “World Famous” RCM Chorale led the singing of the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn and the Welcome Song.

President’s Time

President Raffy briefed the members about the board's plan regarding pressing concerns discussed by the four groups during the recently held General Assembly on October 16, 2023. The recommendations from this meeting will be presented to the board for thorough consideration and resolution during the upcoming regular board meeting. Additionally, he highlighted that the ethics committee and internal auditors will submit their respective final reports for his and the Board’s review, leading to thoughtful consideration and appropriate action.

President Raffy addressed the recurrent misuse of the Viber group by members, noting his commitment to upgrading policies and reinforcing ladderized sanctions. Providing a concise update, he shared information on the status of fully and partially paid dues from the members. Concluding his talk, President Raffy introduced the Philippine Taekwondo Team, which made a remarkable demonstration of their skills and talent.

Exhibition of the Philippine Taekwondo Team

One of the highlights of the program was the presentation of the Philippine Taekwondo Team, comprising of world and Asian Games medalists.

RCM’s Outstanding Athlete Award

Another highlight of the meeting was the bestowing of ‘OUTSTANDING ATHLETE’ award to multi-awarded Pole Vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena. In a heartfelt video message, Mr. Obiena thanked the RCM for the award and honor bestowed on him.

Introduction of the Guest of Honor & Speaker

Rtn. Arsenio “Basti” Lacson introduced the guest of honor and speaker, PSC Chairman Richard E. Bachmann. As he personally knew the latter, Basti craftily added some personal anecdotes that added interest and uniqueness to the way the introduction was made.

Guest of Honor and Speaker

PSC Chairman Richard E. Bachmann delivered his message to the members and guests. He focused on the mandate and various projects and initiatives of the Philippine Sports Commission.

Open Forum

PSC Chairman Richard E. Bachmann gamely engaged in an interactive conversation with IPP Hermie Esguerra, PD Beda Fajardo, DGE Jackie Fernandez, PD Abe Pascual, and PATAFA Pres. Terry Capistrano.

Token of Appreciation

Pres. Rafael Alunan presented the club’s token of appreciation to PSC Chairman Richard E. Bachmann. Witnessing this are Governor-Elect Jackie C. Rodriguez (Chairman, Program Committee) and BLA Raoul C. Creencia.

PATAFA President Terry Capistrano received RCM’s Plaque of Appreciation on behalf of multiple medalist Pole Vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, as RCM’s Outstanding Athlete. This was witnessed by RCM President Raffy Alunan III, Dean of Sports Mr. Quinito Henson, PDG Rudy Bediones, and DGE and Program Committee Chairman Jackie E. Rodriguez, Sr.

Adjournment

After thanking the guest speaker and all attendees, the meeting is adjourned by Pres. Raffy Alunan.