President’s Message

ON October 20, the Rotary Club of Manila, in partnership with the Department of Justice - Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (DOJ-OADR), and the Philippine Institute of Arbitrators, launched the inaugural LEAP Awards, or the Leaders Excelling in ADR and Peacemaking Awards.

During the awarding ceremony, I was given the opportunity to give the welcome address, and I would like to share the message that I delivered during this eventful occasion.

Welcome Remarks during the LEAP Awards ceremony:

To our distinguished guests, esteemed partners from the Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution, fellow Rotarians, members of the legal and peacebuilding community, and most especially, our honorees — Good Morning!

Peacebuilding and conflict prevention is one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus, and I believe that the Leap Awards, a project which has been judiciously and diligently pursued by Committee Chairman / DE Teddy Kalaw, is a flagship undertaking that is worth fully supporting. Indeed, the project exemplifies and gives due recognition to organizations and individuals who are inspiringly passionate in promoting peace, dialogue, and conflict resolution.

On behalf of the Rotary Club of Manila, I welcome you all to this inaugural Leaders Excelling in ADR and Peacemaking, or LEAP Awards. Today’s activity is not just a simple awarding ceremony, but a celebration of vision, integrity, and leadership in the noble pursuit of peace, and the alternative modes of resolving disputes.

Rotary has always believed that peace is the highest form of service — one that calls for empathy, dialogue, and respect for our shared humanity. These same values are at the heart of alternative dispute resolution, where understanding replaces confrontation, and collaboration triumphs over conflict.

Indeed, peace is at the heart of Rotary’s mission. From local communities to global initiatives, Rotary believes in creating understanding, building trust, and promoting dialogue. Today, we honor those who exemplify these ideals — men and women whose quiet courage and steadfast commitment to harmony strengthen the very fabric of our communities and our nation.

To our awardees, we extend our warmest congratulations. Your work embodies Rotary’s enduring principle of Service Above Self, and your example reminds us that peace is not a distant goal, but a daily choice we must all make.

May this milestone inspire us to continue working hand in hand — government, the legal community, civil society, and Rotary — to build a culture of peace, justice, and understanding for all.

Thank you, and good day.