From the Mountains to the Seas: The Rotary Club of Manila’s Meeting with Art Valdez

On August 1, 2024, the Manila Polo Club buzzed with a palpable sense of purpose as the Rotary Club of Manila assembled for an afternoon of reflection and inspiration. The event, a masterful orchestration by Programs Chairman Carlos “Charlie” Serapio, attracted a diverse gathering of 63 members, distinguished guests, and media personalities, all united by a common vision.

The gathering began with a harmonious blend of tradition and ceremony. President Enriquez, alongside Vice President Joel Valdes, and notable figures such as Director Teodoro “Teddy” Y. Kalaw IV, and Rotarian Christian Bello, set a contemplative tone. The invocation by Bello urged attendees to contemplate their shared mission, while the RCM World Famous Music Chorale’s rendition of the Philippine National Anthem and the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn evoked a deep sense of pride.

Director Kalaw’s rendition of "The Four-Way Test: The Dispute Resolver’s Edition" introduced a modern perspective on resolving conflicts, seamlessly connecting Rotary principles with contemporary issues. The acknowledgment of guests, handled with grace by Past Vice President Yu, was complemented by a spirited welcome song from the chorale, creating a warm atmosphere of camaraderie.

The highlight of the afternoon arrived when Rtn. Warren So introduced Arturo “Art” T. Valdez. Valdez, whose impressive achievements span multiple fields, delivered a compelling address that reflected his unwavering belief in the Filipino spirit. He underscored the remarkable accomplishments of Filipinos abroad, achieved through unity and self-belief. Valdez recounted his role in organizing the First Philippine Mt. Everest Expedition, which saw successful summits in 2006 and 2007, including a groundbreaking traverse by Filipino women climbers. His completion of the Mt. Everest Marathon in 2008 further showcased the extraordinary limits of human endurance and spirit.

Transitioning from mountains to seas, Valdez detailed his "Voyage of the Balangay," a project inspired by the maritime prowess of ancient Filipinos. The construction of the balangay boat, named "Diwata ng Lahi," and its voyage through treacherous waters demonstrated not only the resilience of the vessel but also the enduring spirit of its crew. The journey highlighted interactions with coastal communities and served as an educational tool for Filipino maritime heritage.

Valdez also addressed his voyage to China via the South China Sea, a symbolic act commemorating Sultan Paduka’s visit to the Ming Emperor. He challenged China’s expansive maritime claims, using historical and legal evidence to counter the nine-dash line. His presentation of historical anecdotes about pre-colonial Filipino seafarers asserted the Philippines' longstanding presence in these waters.

The afternoon was further enriched by the presence of distinguished guests, including Monichiro Tsuchiya, Glenn Mawdseley, Joachim Enenkel, and Commodore Ildefonso Marco T. Tronqued III, among others. The media coverage by the The Philippine Star, Business Mirror, The Daily Tribune, and ABS-CBN added another layer of engagement.

The event concluded with the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation to Valdez by President Enriquez, acknowledging his significant contributions. As the meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration, reminded of the infinite possibilities that lie beyond the horizon. The afternoon was not merely an event but a celebration of the indomitable human spirit and a reaffirmation of the Rotary Club of Manila’s commitment to service, inspired by the trailblazing example of one of its own.