PP Alberto G. Romulo’s Message at the Rotary Club of Manila’s 106th Anniversary and Charging of New Officers

TODAY, we celebrate an important occasion — the 106th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Manila, the first and oldest Rotary Club in Asia. This is more than a celebration of longevity; it is a tribute to generations of Rotarians who have upheld the ideals of Service Above Self; who believed that true leadership is grounded in action, compassion, and commitment to others.

In 106 years, we have seen the world change in ways unimaginable — wars and peace, crises and recovery, pandemics and progress. Yet through it all, the Rotary Club of Manila has stood steadfast, adapting to the times while holding firm to our mission of service, fellowship, and ethical leadership. From pioneering community-driven programs to addressing pressing social needs, our legacy is written not in words, but in deeds and in the lives we have touched and served.

As we honor our past, we also look to the future — and tonight, we place that future in the capable hands of our newly elected officers, led by our President Raoul Creencia.

To our new officers, this is your moment. You are not only inheriting a legacy – you are shaping what that legacy will become. You stand on the shoulders of giants who were once men who dared to dream big.

These giants were once Presidents of the Rotary Club of Manila just like President Raoul Creencia is now. Senate President Gil Puyat was Manila Rotary President in 1940 and 1945, Foreign Affairs Secretary Carlos P. Romulo was Manila Rotary President in 1935, Executive Secretary Emilio Abello was Manila Rotary President in 1961, and Finance Secretary Eduardo Romualdez was Manila Rotary President in 1953. All these past Presidents of the Rotary Club of Manila were still active in Rotary during my presidency. In 1978 when we celebrated Rotary’s Diamond Anniversary in Asia and in the Philippines.

President Raoul Creencia you are among the past Presidents of Rotary Club of Manila who were giants in their own time. This is a challenge to you President Raoul to be a giant like them – in the world of service.

Just like when I was RCM President 48 years ago, you will face challenges, yes — but you will also find opportunities to ignite change, inspire hope, and innovate the way we serve. You have the full support of this great club behind you. We believe in your mission. We trust in your integrity. And we are excited for what you will achieve.

Your chosen theme for our Club – Our Destiny. Our Legacy. Rotary – is truly inspiring and reflective of your sublime vision for this Rotary year.

As officers of the Rotary Club of Manila — the cradle of Rotary in Asia — you carry not only the hopes of your members, but also the proud legacy of over a century of leadership, fellowship, and compassion. Remember, you are not merely assuming titles… you are embracing responsibility — to your club, to your community, and to the enduring ideals of Rotary.

You are now the standard-bearers of “Service Above Self.” Let your term be marked by action that speaks louder than words, by service that goes deeper than slogans, and by a spirit that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Serve with honor. Lead with purpose. And may your year be remembered as one of lasting impact.

And to all my fellow Rotarians, as we celebrate this milestone, let us renew our commitment to serve, to lead with humility, and to embrace the spirit of Rotary. May the Rotary flame burn ever brighter through your leadership President Raoul.

Today, let us again dedicate ourselves to the ideals of Rotary – to the Four-Way Test and to “Service Above Self”.

Let us continue to pursue this vision Let us continue to pursue this dream Until in God’s chosen time We attain our vision We achieve our dream.

Godspeed.