6th WMM Recap: Turning Points: From Vagabond to Homeland

IN the Chantara Function Room of the Dusit Thani Manila, where tradition and modernity converge, the Rotary Club of Manila convened for its 6th Weekly Membership Meeting. The event was a testament to the enduring spirit of Rotary, marked by heartfelt addresses, engaging discussions, and the shared pursuit of service above self.

As the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn filled the room, the familiar cadence of commitment to the values of the organization resonated with each participant. Past Director Oscar del Rosario hosted the program with much flair and deadpan humor that set the tone for the afternoon. Rotarian J Alfonso L Katigbak then reminded the assembly of the Four-Way Test, the ethical benchmark guiding Rotarians in their endeavors. This brief yet poignant recitation served as a reminder of the core principles upheld by the Rotary community.

The afternoon began with President Jujut Enriquez calling the meeting to order with a commanding presence that set the tone for an inspiring gathering. The invocation was led by Past Vice-President and RCManila Foundation Chairman Reggie Yu, whose words of reflection evoked a collective sense of purpose among the attendees. The Philippine National Anthem, rendered through a stirring audiovisual presentation, followed, uniting the members in a display of national pride.

The program also saw the much-vaunted nomination process for the new set of leaders to guide the club in the upcoming Rotary Year. Twenty-four names emerged as those who have demonstrated the track record, commitment, and qualifications necessary to lead the Rotary Club of Manila with integrity and vision. Acknowledgments of guests were made with warmth and enthusiasm, setting the stage for a welcoming atmosphere. The Welcome Song further cemented the spirit of camaraderie that characterizes Rotary gatherings. President Jujut took the podium again for the President’s Time, offering reflections and updates that underscored the dynamic and forward-thinking nature of the club’s initiatives.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the Classification Talk delivered by Star Rotarian Chris Bello. His discourse in entrepreneurship on how he set up his now-thriving 20,000 hectare bangus (milkfish) enterprise in Bulacan, as well as his burgeoning fish feeds business, provided valuable insights into the multifaceted roles and contributions of Rotarians, setting up a context for the ensuing guest speaker’s address.

The introduction of the Guest of Honor and Speaker was deftly handled by Past Director Hans Palacios, who framed the significance of the afternoon’s keynote address. Dermot Doyne, Esq., took the stage as the Guest of Honor, bringing with him a compelling narrative of personal and professional evolution.

Dermot Doyne’s story is a remarkable journey from the working-class neighborhoods of London to the halls of legal and civic influence in Boston. Born in 1962 to Irish immigrants, Doyne’s early life was shaped by the cultural and economic challenges of post-war London. With little formal education and a background in mechanical work, he embarked on a transformative journey that took him across continents and through a myriad of experiences.

His speech was a candid reflection on life’s pivotal decisions and the fortitude required to navigate them. Doyne recounted his adventures, from working in the Bronx to traversing the Outback of Australia and the bustling streets of New Delhi. His travels were driven by a quest for meaning and a desire to reshape his destiny.

Arriving in Boston in 1994, Doyne’s initial foray into the workforce at the Parker House Hotel marked the beginning of a profound transformation. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Penguin Pizza, which became a cornerstone of local political and business circles. Doyne’s involvement in community advocacy and union politics underscored his commitment to social justice and equitable representation.

At 50, Doyne pursued a law degree, driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of education and advocacy. His career pivot to representing mental health litigants and his subsequent role in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reflected his enduring dedication to public service.

Doyne’s address was marked by a powerful narrative about the impact of personal choices and the importance of seizing opportunities. His reflections on his son’s health battles and his own professional transitions illustrated the broader theme of resilience and the profound impact of decisions, both big and small.

In the ensuing question and answer portion, Doyne engaged with the audience, further illuminating his perspectives on advocacy, education, and personal growth. His answers were laced with wisdom gleaned from a life of diverse experiences, resonating deeply with the Rotarians present.

As the meeting drew to a close, President Jujut adjourned the session, leaving the attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration. The gathering not only highlighted the achievements and ongoing efforts of the Rotary Club of Manila but also reinforced the universal values of perseverance, service, and the transformative power of choices.

Indubitably, the Rotary Club of Manila’s Weekly Membership Meeting continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit of Rotary and the profound impact of individual decisions on the broader tapestry of human experience.