The Rotary Club of Manila’s 15th Weekly Membership Meeting: Transforming Lives, Leaving Legacies

THE Rotary Club of Manila convened its 15th Weekly Membership Meeting for the Rotary Year 2024-2025 at the prestigious Manila Polo Club. Moderated by Director-Elect Albert “Hans” C. Palacios, the event brought together Rotarians and distinguished guests for an afternoon of fellowship, reflection, and insight.

Program Highlights

The meeting began with registration, followed by the Call to Order by President Jujut Enriquez. The opening formalities included an invocation led by Rotarian John Nico “Nico” P. Valencia, an Audio-Visual Presentation of the Philippine National Anthem, and a rendition of the Rotary Club of Manila Hymn performed by the RCM World Famous Music Chorale. Rotarian Michael Raymond “Micray” L. Gonzales delivered the Four-Way Test, emphasizing the core principles of Rotary. Director-Elect Albert “Hans” C. Palacios then acknowledged guests, and the RCM World Famous Music Chorale performed a Welcome Song. The Club also celebrated the birthday of Past District Governor Vince Carlos (November 19), serenading him with the “Maligayang Bati / Happy Birthday Song.”

President Jujut Enriquez took the stage for his time, during which he provided updates, including the PETA Report and the turnover of funds by Past District Governor Alexander “Alex” P. Cureg.

Featured Address by Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson

District Governor Joaquin “Jackie” Rodriguez introduced the guest speaker, former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Crisologo “Chavit” Singson. Governor Singson, known for his transformative leadership and business acumen, captivated the audience with an inspiring and candid account of his life, achievements, and vision for the Philippines.

“It is a great honor to be here today,” began Governor Chavit Singson, addressing the Rotarians. “Thank you for inviting me to share my journey and thoughts.”

Governor Singson reflected on his long career in public service. “I have served as Governor of Ilocos Sur for many years, later becoming Mayor, and even a Councilor. At various points, I also held leadership roles in the Governors’ League, Mayors’ League, and the Councilors’ League of the Philippines. My career in public service has been marked by challenges, but also by many successes. When I first became Governor, Ilocos Sur was known as the most notorious province in the country. Political killings were rampant, and a private army ruled. It was a place of fear, poverty, and violence.”

He detailed the steps he took to transform the province. “I worked hard to eliminate the influence of private armies and reduce graft and corruption. Over time, Ilocos Sur transitioned from being one of the poorest provinces to the fifth richest in the Philippines. It was not an easy journey, but it was worth it. Today, our province is peaceful, prosperous, and open for business.”

Governor Singson’s commitment to fighting corruption extended beyond his province. “When I led the Mayors’ League, it was riddled with graft. By the time I left, not only was it free of corruption, but I had also left 40 million pesos in cash. Similarly, when I chaired the Councilors’ League, I left behind 100 million pesos. These experiences taught me that leadership is about integrity and action. My father’s advice—‘Always keep your word or lose your credibility’—has guided me throughout my life.”

Shifting to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Governor Singson shared anecdotes from his youth. “I grew up working in my family’s businesses, selling peanuts and soft drinks in movie theaters, despite my mother’s objections. Later, I worked at a tobacco redrying plant, which set the foundation for my first major venture—tobacco trading. I innovated by sourcing tobacco directly from farmers, which allowed me to build a thriving business. It was through these ventures that I earned my first billion pesos.”

His business ventures eventually expanded to include electric vehicles, aviation, and economic zones. “In South Korea, I own two economic zones and collaborate with major companies like Daewoo. Here in the Philippines, I am working to establish an economic zone in Ilocos Sur. This has been a dream for decades, but approval has been delayed by the Senate. This is one of the reasons I’m considering another run for public office—to finally see this dream come to life.”

Governor Singson also spoke about his philanthropic projects, including financing the modernization of Philippine jeepneys. “The old jeepneys pollute the environment and lack air-conditioning. I’ve committed to funding new, electric jeepneys with no down payment and zero interest. This project is not about profit—it’s about giving back. As I often say, money is not yours until you spend it. Life is short; enjoy it while you can.”

In closing, Governor Singson reflected on the values imparted by his parents. “My father taught me to honor my word, and my mother taught me the importance of diversification. These lessons have shaped who I am today. To the Rotarians here, I urge you to stay committed to service and integrity. Together, we can create a brighter future for the Philippines.”

Following his speech, Governor Singson engaged with the audience in an open forum, answering questions about his projects, political insights, and personal philosophies.

President Jujut Enriquez presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Governor Singson for his inspiring address. The meeting concluded at 2:00 PM, leaving attendees motivated to carry forward Rotary’s mission of service above self.