Data Privacy

WE join civic groups such as Rotary for various noble reasons – making new friends, expanding our network, undertaking worthwhile pursuits with like-minded individuals, sharing what we know with and learning from peers, and generally, to be a positive part of and grow with the organization. When we joined the Rotary Club of Manila, we necessarily gave relevant personal information, one of which is our contact number. Hence, when we share our mobile phone number for the purpose, among others, of its being included in the organization’s exclusive social chat groups (such as Viber or WhatsApp), it is understood that the sharing of such contact detail is meant solely for the members. By giving our number, we do not thereby relinquish our right to privacy, nor do we grant authority for anyone to share such detail to any person outside of the organization.

The whole point of data privacy is keeping data safe against improper access, theft or loss. Thus, it is vital to keep data confidential and secure by exercising sound data management and preventing unauthorized access that might result in data loss, alteration or theft. In an organization where all members are part of a chat group and have access to the contact details of everybody in that group, it behooves upon the officers, staff and all members to respect each member’s right to information privacy, and in this case, to prevent any number from being unlawfully or improperly given or shared to third parties. Indeed, each member’s contact details and other personal information should not be allowed to be misused or accessed without proper authorization. In like manner, a member himself should not improperly or maliciously exploit such access to these contact details. This is a legal imperative in all organizations.

The Rotary Club of Manila is amazingly populated by fine gentlemen who excel in their respective fields. Over the past weeks, we have seen several of our very own Manila Rotarians being given well-deserved recognitions and handed various awards for their exemplary work. This is what we must highlight and spread to our members (especially our Star Rotarians). We must constantly celebrate the good, the positives, the things that uplift the spirit, the news that inspire, and the behavior that affirms the values of Rotary. If we are to develop a new generation of Manila Rotarians who will enthusiastically carry on the legacy of Asia’s First Rotary Club, we must do so by showing them the beauty of our Rotary Club – our transformational projects, our undying aspirations, our modest successes, and our historical values.

Gentlemen of RCM, please block off 3 July 2025, Thursday, as this is being eyed by the 2025-2026 Board to be the date of the 106th Inaugural of Asia’s First Rotary Club. The venue is not yet finally determined, but it will be announced soon.

As we continue to do our share in ensuring the success of this Magical Year under the leadership of President Jujut, we also look forward and prepare to continue our service next year. Those who wish to continue serving in the committees, or join a new one, please do not hesitate to approach me, VPE Ricky, or any member of the incoming Board. Let us continue to be positively and constructively involved in enabling our Club to be the best it can be as a membership and service organization.