Roots of Resilience: Inspiring Leadership and Service from Delfin N. Lorenzana

Last Thursday, September 26, 2024, the Rotary Club of Manila convened its 10th Weekly Membership Meeting at the prestigious Manila Polo Club, bringing together members and guests for an afternoon filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and service. The event, moderated by Rotarian Antonilo “Anton” DC. Mauricio, showcased the club's commitment to fostering meaningful connections within the community and promoting Rotary’s core values.

Opening Ceremonies

The meeting commenced with registration at 12:00 PM, allowing members to connect and engage before the formal proceedings began. At 12:30 PM, President Jujut Enriquez called the meeting to order, setting a tone of unity and purpose. Past Director Phillip “Phil” L. Ong led the invocation, invoking a spirit of service and gratitude.

The Philippine National Anthem was presented through an audio-visual display, followed by the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn performed by the RCM World Famous Music Chorale. Rotarian Abdulgani “Gani” M. Macatoman then articulated the Four-Way Test, a cornerstone of Rotary’s ethical guidelines, emphasizing the importance of integrity in our actions.

Celebrating Membership and Milestones

Acknowledgments continued with Rotarian Anton's welcome of guests and a spirited rendition of the Welcome Song by the RCM World-Famous Music Chorale. The meeting also celebrated birthday celebrants, including Rtn. Inov Talusan and Rtn. Nico Valencia, with a heartfelt rendition of the “Maligayang Bati” birthday song, reinforcing the sense of family within the club.

Musical Interlude and Raffle Draw

As the afternoon progressed, the RCM World-Famous Music Chorale graced the assembly with musical presentations, including “Ay, Ay, Ay… O Pag-ibig” and “Tagumpay Nating Lahat,” fostering a celebratory atmosphere. Excitement filled the room during the raffle draw, where lucky attendees received prizes, symbolizing the rewards of participation and community spirit.

Insights from Distinguished Speaker

Rotarian Francisco “Paco” D. Magsaysay introduced the meeting’s speaker. STAR Rotarian Delfin “Del” N. Lorenzana, a distinguished figure with a remarkable background in military service and leadership, conducted his classification talk. Del’s narrative traced his roots back to Parang, Cotabato, where he learned the values of diversity and resilience amid various cultural influences.

Early Life and Values

Del recounted his upbringing in Parang, Cotabato, a town characterized by its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community. He highlighted how growing up among various tribes and dialects instilled in him a deep appreciation for multiculturalism. This foundation shaped his values and inspired a commitment to unity and understanding in a nation marked by complexity. His roots in Cotabato, where his parents migrated during the post-war era, also underscored the resilience of the Filipino spirit. Del illustrated how his family's journey mirrored that of many Filipinos who sought a better life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hard work in overcoming adversity.

Military Career and Leadership Lessons

Transitioning to his military career, Del shared insights from his time in the Philippine Army. His commitment to service was evident in his willingness to volunteer for assignments in Mindanao, demonstrating a profound sense of duty to his homeland. Del's journey through various ranks — from platoon leader to major general — provided him with invaluable lessons in leadership. He spoke candidly about the challenges he faced, particularly during his tenure as a battalion commander in Davao City, where he dealt with insurgency issues. Del highlighted the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in leadership, as he navigated complex situations that required quick decision-making and clear communication.

Service Beyond the Military

Del’s experiences extended beyond military service. His role as Secretary of National Defense allowed him to advocate for veterans' rights, reflecting his commitment to ensuring that those who served the nation were recognized and supported. He poignantly addressed the historical injustices faced by Filipino World War II veterans, advocating for their recognition and benefits in the U.S. Congress. His passion for service was evident as he described his efforts to secure medical benefits and financial assistance for veterans, emphasizing that advocating for those who served is a moral obligation. This work not only highlighted his leadership skills but also demonstrated the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.

Reflections on Community and Nation

Del’s narrative culminated in a powerful message about the role of community and the responsibility of individuals to contribute to the greater good. He emphasized that leadership is not confined to positions of authority; rather, it is about service and making a positive difference in people's lives. In closing, Del urged members of the Rotary Club to remain steadfast in their commitment to service above self. He inspired attendees to actively engage in their communities, reminding them that every small action contributes to a larger tapestry of change.

RCM Election Results

The announcement of the results of the RCM elections followed, marking a significant moment for the club's leadership. With 81 members in attendance, Atty. Raoul Creencia emerged as the president-elect, while Ricky Guevara was elected vice president, paving the way for a new chapter of leadership and service.

Closing Remarks

As the meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM, the sentiments shared resonated deeply among the attendees. The gathering was not merely a routine assembly; it was a heartfelt reminder of the enduring spirit of Rotary, where service above self thrives, and where every member’s journey contributes to a greater collective impact. The Rotary Club of Manila continues to exemplify the ultimate ideals of Rotary — service, integrity, and fellowship — ensuring that every meeting is not just a formality, but a celebration of community, growth, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.