President’s Message

AUGUST 1, Friday, I opened the month with a “unity” lunch with the Presidents of two dynamic and admirable Rotary Clubs -- RC Makati and RC Makati West. In a sumptuous meal hosted by RC Makati President Eddie Galvez, I broke bread with the latter, RC Makati West President Dino Dumatol, and RC Makati PP and District Secretary Louie Aseoche.

The lunch gathering was not just a meeting of friends. It was a reaffirmation of each of the three Rotary Clubs’ commitment to forge greater unity and cooperation. Indeed, it transcended the bounds of a mere social occasion; it stood as a solemn reaffirmation of the clubs’ enduring commitment to forge deeper bonds of service and unity -- a gentle weaving of fellowship, and a quiet renewal of promise.

As we all embark our journey of “Service Above Self,” we must be constantly reminded that the true strength of Rotary lies not only in the passion of individual clubs, but in the bonds we build with one another.

Each club carries its own unique traditions, strengths, and talents, yet we all share a common mission -- to make lasting, positive change in our communities and in the world.

Moreover, establishing greater unity with our fellow Rotary Clubs allows us to multiply our impact. By working together, we open the doors to new partnerships, share valuable experiences, and pool our resources for projects that none of us could accomplish alone.

More importantly, unity nurtures fellowship—the spirit that keeps Rotary vibrant and meaningful.

As I reflect on the work we do together under the banner of Rotary, I am reminded time and again that our greatest strength is not found in numbers, nor in resources alone, but in the fellowship that binds us. It is this spirit of fellowship that allows us all to achieve extraordinary things.

Each Rotary Club is a beacon of service, carrying its own proud traditions and projects that make a difference in the lives of many. Yet when we reach across to other clubs —when we choose cooperation over isolation—we discover that our collective impact is far greater than the sum of our individual efforts.

The challenges of our time demand not just commitment, but also unity. In fact, this year, we are all called upon to “unite for good”.

By working hand in hand with our other clubs such as the Rotary Club of Makati and the Rotary Club of Makati West, we share ideas, complement strengths, and learn from one another’s experiences. In this way, our projects gain breadth, depth, and sustainability.

But beyond service, there is another gift that unity offers us: friendship. The ties we forge with Rotarians from other clubs enrich our journey in Rotary. They remind us that we are part of a worldwide family whose members, though diverse in background, are united in purpose.

When we stand together, we affirm that our vision of peace, compassion, and progress knows no boundaries.

As President of Asia’s first Rotary Club, I envision a year where our club does not stand apart, but stands alongside. I see us working shoulder to shoulder with fellow Rotarians in shared initiatives—whether in service to our communities, in humanitarian outreach, or in programs that nurture the next generation.

Let us make it our goal to not only strengthen our own club but also to strengthen the bonds of friendship and partnership with those around us.

We started the month (August 1) with a lunch among friends, and a couple of weeks later (August 27), we had a great, fun and productive fellowship dinner attended by the directors and officers of the three dynamic clubs in the country.

I look forward to more meaningful collaboration with RC Makati and RC Makati West.