19th Weekly Membership Meeting: A Recap

Program Moderator

PP Arsenio “Archit” M. Bartolome III was the week’s Program Moderator who, with his wit and charm, efficiently navigated the flow of the meeting. He began by inviting the members of Rotary Club of Manila and Rotary Club of Forbes Park, as well as the other guests, to be seated for the commencement of the joint membership meeting.

Call to Order

Pres. Rafael “Raffy” M. Alunan III and Pres. Antonio “Anton” P. Jacomina III (RC Forbes Park) respectively called the 19th joint weekly membership meeting to order.

Invocation

With a beautiful prayer, PP Ruben L. Torres (RC Forbes Park) led the invocation.

Philippine National Anthem / RCM Hymn

Rotary Members and guests took a position of respect as they sang the Philippine National Anthem. This was followed by the recitation of the 4-WAY TEST.

The Rotary Club of Manila Hymn and Welcome Song

The “World Famous” WF Chorale led in the singing of the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn and the Welcome Song, followed by RC Forbes Park club’s song.

President’s Time

On the part of RCM, President Raffy made a brief update on the forthcoming trips to Taipei and Hong Kong. From Nov. 24 to 26, he will lead the group in visiting RCM’s sister club — the Rotary Club of Taipei. Also, upon the invitation of RC Kowloon East, a trip to Hongkong is set on Dec. 02 to 06. He also advised those who have not signed yet to express their intention to join while there’s still time. Finally, he encouraged everyone to book in advance in preparation for the Rotary International Convention to be held in Singapore in May 2024.

Pres. Raffy shared the information he received during the recently held RCM Board meeting, saying that PVP Lance Masters may not be able to continue his membership with the RCM. Said information is still yet to be confirmed, as he already sent words to PVP Lance Masters.

Lastly, on the request of IPP Hermie Esguerra, Pres. Raffy informed everyone that he (IPP Hermie) expressed to the Board his intent to run for Governorship for District 3810, for Rotary Year 2026-2027. In this regard, he said that the Board has taken his intention, which it will tackle and formally pass a board resolution as soon as the District officially opens the nomination process.

Testimonials

On the part of RCFP, Pres. Antonio “Anton” P. Jacomina III of the Rotary of Forbes Park shared their successful outreach program last November 14, benefitting elderlies and children.

Justice Presbitero “Presby” Velasco, Dir. Antonio “Tony” S. Lopez, and Rtn. Cesar “Citos” P. Manalaysay shared their personal and working experiences with the former Supreme Court Chief Justice and RCM Past Pres. Artemio “Art” V. Panganiban.

Introduction of the Guest of Honor & Speaker

PD Beda G. Fajardo introduced the guest of honor and speaker, Chief Justice and Past President Artemio “Art” V. Panganiban.

Guest of Honor and Speaker

Chief Justice and Past President Artemio “Art” V. Panganiban delivered his inspiring message to the Rotarians and guests of Rotary Club of Manila and Rotary Club of Forbes Park.

Open Forum

Chief Justice and Past President Artemio “Art” V. Panganiban gamely engaged in an interactive conversation, triggered by questions propounded by (from left) Rtn. Willie Pelino, BLA Raoul Creencia, PD Vince Carlos, and PP Raj Bhattee (RCFP), among others.

Token of Appreciation

Pres. Raffy Alunan presented the club’s token of appreciation to Chief Justice and Past Pres. Artemio “Art” Panganiban.

Adjournment

Rotary Club of Manila Pres. Raffy Alunan and Rotary Club of Forbes Park Pres. Anton Jacomina III sounded the bell for the adjournment of another memorable and insightful meeting.

Meeting Fellowship

Rotary Club of Manila and Rotary Club of Forbes Park members during pre-meeting fellowship