MOA

Whenever we hear the term “MOA”, two things usually come to mind: Memorandum of Agreement and the Mall of Asia. Our dictionary also informs us that “moa” is a noun referring to “any of various usually very large extinct flightless birds of New Zealand of a ratite order (Dinornithiformes).” But perhaps because moa birds are extinct, the name is mostly unknown to many. This is why MOA is more popularly associated with a document containing the terms of an agreement; and (especially in the Philippines) the 400,000 square meter ginormous mall in Pasay City.

For an organization like the Rotary Club of Manila, a MOA or a Memorandum of Agreement is a document that is both inspirational and aspirational -- one that carefully spells out and articulates the terms of a cooperative pursuit with like-minded groups and individuals to jointly undertake specific worthy projects. It even sometimes covers joint projects with government agencies. These MOAs thus give a glimpse of a project deemed worthy to be implemented by Asia’s first Rotary Club. These are the projects that address Rotary’s areas of focus, and are aimed to positively impact the community. Each RCM MOA, therefore, is the first official step in bringing to life a sublime idea and a service-above-self initiative. It is an instrument immortalizing a meeting of the minds to bring to fruition projects meant to change lives and bring hope to the world.

In today’s weekly membership meeting, two MOAs will be signed between RCM and the Philippine Red Cross; and between the latter and two Rotaract Clubs. Numerous other MOAs are undergoing finalization and approval and will soon be scheduled for signing. These are the MOAs to forge vital partnerships with the Department of Education, Department of Justice (OADR), Knowledge Channel, and a few others concerning health and malnutrition. These MOAs are thus products of RCM’s vision and fealty to its mission to serve.

Hopefully, the crafting and signing of these project-specific and partnership agreements will further inspire Manila Rotarians to faithfully and actually participate in each endeavor, as well as help realize the projects envisioned in these contracts, collectively as members of a Club that not only seeks to leave an indelible mark in a community and the lives of beneficiaries, but also cement a lasting legacy for Philippine Rotary.