Editorial

As we inaugurate the Rotary Year 2024-2025 under the theme "THE MAGIC OF ROTARY," our focus turns to a fundamental principle that resonates deeply in today's complex world: "God before Country." This axiom, imbued with profound ethical significance, challenges us to uphold integrity and accountability in all our endeavors.

At the Rotary Club of Manila, we are privileged to welcome Undersecretary Margaux Vargas Salcedo from the Department of Budget and Management as our esteemed Guest of Honor and Speaker for our first weekly membership meeting. Under her guidance, we delve into a theme that strikes at the heart of ethical governance and moral integrity.

"God before Country" is not merely a slogan; it is a guiding principle that underscores our commitment to truth, fairness, and goodwill—the cornerstones of the Rotary Four-Way Test. In today's global landscape, where the lines between right and wrong can blur, embracing a higher ethical standard becomes paramount. This principle challenges us to prioritize values that transcend personal and national interests, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability.

It reminds us that as Rotarians, we are entrusted with the responsibility to lead by example, to champion causes that benefit all, and to uphold the dignity of our professions and communities. As the first Rotary Club in Asia, founded on principles of service and ethical leadership, our gathering marks not just a moment of reflection but a call to action.

Let us harness the magic of Rotary to ignite positive change in our communities, guided by the timeless wisdom encapsulated in "God before Country." Let us renew our commitment to the Rotary ideal of Service Above Self, knowing that our actions today shape the future we leave for generations to come.

In the year ahead, let us embrace this principle with unwavering dedication. Let us forge bonds of friendship and collaboration that transcend boundaries, inspired by the belief that by placing principles above politics, and ethics above expediency, we can truly make a difference.

Together, let us embark on this new Rotary year with optimism and resolve. Let us uphold the legacy of service and integrity that defines our Club and inspires our global Rotary family. Together, let us discover the magic of Rotary in the transformative power of "God before Country." Welcome to a year of possibilities, of leadership, and of service.