Professional Documents
Culture Documents
04
October 2013
Rotary International District 3780 honors those who have excelled in their vocations
The Rotary Golden Wheel Awardees
Kris C. Aquino
Entertainment Media
Charo Santos-Concio
Corporate Media Management
Shirley Halili-Cruz
Arts and Culture
Investigative Journalism
Voltaire T. Gazmin
National Defense and Security
Raul C. Pangalangan
Print Media
wenty-six distinguished ladies and gentlemen of Quezon City who have excelled in their respective vocations, demonstrated commitment to high ethical standards, and established themselves as role models for others were honoured by Rotary International District 3780 during the 2013 Rotary Golden Wheel Awards Night held last October 26, 2013 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria. Ten Rotarians of District 3780 received The Paul Harris Vocational Excellence Awards, a tribute to the founder of Rotary. The awardees amply represented the crosssection of business and professional pursuits of Rotarians in the District. Sixteen outstanding individuals in Quezon City who are non-Rotarians in District 3780 and come from various field of expertise received The Rotary Golden Wheel Awards. A significant component of the Rotary Golden
Wheel Awards program is the recognition of five Rotary Clubs with the Best Vocational Service Projects: RC Loyola Heights - Spiritual Formation and Development RC New Manila Heights - Karunungan at Kabuhayan Center RC San Francisco del Monte - Mobile Surgery Unit RC Metro Sta. Mesa - Search for Outstanding Judges RC Quezon City - Transitioning Program for Youth with Special Needs
Manuel V. Pangilinan
Sports Development
Alfredo E. Pascual
Higher Education
Aniceto M. Sobrepena
CSR Development
Hans T. Sy
Development Banking/Finance
Andrew L. Tan
Trade and Industry
The awards were presented by District Governor Francis Rivera, Vocational Service Chair Ed Ayento, Search & Awards Chair Chito Borromeo, Overall Awards Night Chair Mel Velasco and other District officials. The Rotary Golden Wheel Awards is a joint project of the Quezon City Government and Rotary International District 3780.
Enrique A. Tayag, MD
Public Health
Mariels Almeda-Winhoffer
Science & Technology Education
Governors Message
Honoring Our Vocational Treasures
Speech delivered by Gov. Francis A. Rivera during the 2013 Rotary Golden Wheel Awards Night, 26 October at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria
he Golden Wheel Awards reminds us of Rotarys essence as a service organization. Simply stated, Rotary is an association of business and professional men and women committed to the promotion of friendship, goodwill and peace in the world through service to others. How this commitment is pursued and fulfilled leads us to Rotarys unique world of service, which is made up of five wonderful ways to serve beyond the self. These are: Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service, International Service, and Service to New Generations. Each one of these indicates the focus of the kind of service through which Rotary serves mankind. But of these five avenues, it is Vocational Service that Rotarians love to call the Soul of Rotary. And the reason is simple: membership in Rotary is governed by its classification principle, which provides that every member must belong to a particular business or profession, or vocation. It is this kind of exclusive membership that has opened the hearts of Rotarians to serve in many ways relative to mans vocation. Rotarys Golden Wheel Awards provides one of the most beautiful ways Rotarians serve in the avenue of Vocational Service. Here we give special recognition to the outstanding men and women in their respective businesses and professions. And we give this special recognition to celebrate October as Rotarys Vocational Service Month. Tonight as we give honor and recognition to the few who will receive the award, I am reminded of the US Medal of Freedom given to the late Congressman Claude Pepper. As the book, Our Daily Bread puts it:
The distinguished congressman was called by his colleagues a national treasure. He was a valiant champion of the elderly and the poor. A few days before Peppers death in 1989, President Bush visited him in Walter Reed Hospital to give him the nations highest civilian award, the Medal of Freedom. Representative Silvio Conte recalls, Despite what was obviously great deal of pain, Claude apologized to the President and the First Lady that he couldnt stand up, said Conte. He didnt have to stand up. He was a giant. To us Rotarians, these men and women stand as giants in the world of business and professions. They are our Vocational Treasures, the very few whom we have chosen from a long list of individuals who were picked by our Rotary clubs from different fields of endeavor. Every story about their life in their line of business or profession has been given our wisdom of choice. They epitomize the meaning of excellence painted in the words of John Ruskin, When men are rightly occupied, their amusement grows out of their work, as the color petals out of a fruitful flower. And then he adds, When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece. Let us therefore give the honor and praise to those that will receive this years Golden Wheel Awards. They are the outstanding men and women whose shining example of excellence and practice of high ethical standards in the world of business and professions will bring positive change to our communities and our world.
Calendar of Activities
November & December 2013
From District Secretary Amable Mar Cancio
November is Rotary Foundation Month & World Interact Week (Week including November 5) November 15 TRF Awareness Week/ Paul Harris Golf Cup PHF Recognition Night DRF Committee RC Metro West Triangle Veterans Golf Club Chair LG Dwight Ramos RC Quezon City Intercon Hotel Makati
November 23
November 26
December is Family Month in the Rotary Calendar December 9 District Christmas Party and Past Presidents Fellowship Night Announcement to Clubs of Nomination Process for DGN Host: FC Presidents Celebrity Sports Plaza
To be announced
EDITORIAL BOARD
District Governor Francis A. Rivera
Publisher
District Secretary Amable Mar Cancio District Chief of Staff Francis Paderna Ricardo Ric P. Salvador
Editor in Chief
IPP Rhodora Doris Sanchez (RC Diliman North) IPP Cresencio Cris Bacho Jr (RC Cubao Edsa) Bernard De San Jose (RC Timog) The Governors Monthly Letter is published by the Governor of Rotary International District 3780 with offices at the Rotary Center Building, Roces Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines. Contributions for publication may be sent to Ric Salvador at rp_salvador@yahoo.com, to Beth Directo at betchie@728@gmail.com, or to Marcia Salvador at mdcsalvador@yahoo.com
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New Rotarians are warmly welcomed during District membership recognition event
By District Membership Development Chair Lt. Gov. Dwight M. Ramos, RC Quezon City
he District saw another membership event kick off this month, continuing a tradition that is now entrenched in the lives of Quezon City Rotarians. Every year, the District, through a grand fellowship event for new members gives them honor and recognition for joining the great Clubs of RI District 3780 during the Rotary Year. It is also a way of thanking the Club leaders, most specially the First Class Presidents, for leading the charge in meeting the District Membership Recruitment and Retention goals this year. Begun three years ago by now District Governor Nominee Reynaldo "Rey" David, this year's event was hosted by the Rotary Club of Quezon City (RCQC) and chaired by District Membership Development Committee Chairman Dwight "Dwight" M. Ramos. The District Membership Recognition event started at 4:00 pm, with the Rotary Basics Seminar for new members. The speakers included IPDG Rufino "Penny" Policarpio and IPDS Pastor "Mar" Reyes. District Trainer PDG Danilo "Dan" Espinosa first gave an overview of the seminar to the participants before DG Francisco "Francis" Rivera gave his keynote address. DG Francis talked about how fellowship has always been the source of life in getting Rotarians to work together in bringing Rotary service to communities around the world. This is the reason why according to him Rotary has lived for more than 108 years since its birth in 1905. Without fellowship or friendship, Rotary would have lost the foundation of its creation. He also said that in gathering for the District Membership Grand Fellowship Night, the words of Paul Harris and Rotary's 108-year history built upon service and fellow-
ship should come flashing in our minds, as these are the beautiful reasons that Rotarians have come together for this auspicious event. Fellowship provides the greatest opportunity for Rotarians to get to know each other well and build warm and lasting friendships. Friendship inflames the heart with passion to serve others. When friends come together, service acquires more meaning and gives more joy and inner fulfillment. He also cited Francis Bacon who said, "Friendship doubles joy and halves grief. Finally, he wished that the grand fellowship will strengthen the fibers of friendship that hold Quezon City Rotarians together. He said to take time to meet everyone and make the event a great opportunity to expand the circle of friendship, strengthen the foundations of the Rotary movement in our part of the world. After all, it is through friends that we enrich our lives with joy and it is through fellowship that we can lend more meaning to the theme, "Engage Rotary Change Lives." The event took place at the Quezon Ballroom of the Quezon City Sports Club and was also highlighted by a showcase of talents from the ranks of the First Class Presidents (FCP), who sang tribute songs to the new members, as well as the drawing of many raffle prizes that were donated by RCQC members. FCP Cesar "Poch" Jaymalin and FCP Jocelyn "Josie" Garcia were emcees for the night.
Literacy Summit 2013 solidifies 2013 Literacy partnerships Summit to.improve .. learning outcomes
by District Community Service Chair PP Ma. Elisa Baby Allado, RC New Manila Heights
he Literacy Summit, now on its third consecutive year, was held last September 14 at the P. Bernardo Elementary School. This years theme is Engage Rotary, Sharing Vision for Enhanced Literacy Stronger and Better Private-Public Partnerships. This activity was attended by First Class Presidents and principals and/or representatives from their respective adopted schools. FC President Aladin Villacorte of RC of New Manila Heights welcomed the attendees. An overview of the Literacy Summit was provided by PP Eric Santos, Chair of the District Basic Education and Literacy Committee. District Governor Francis Rivera then delivered an Inspirational message enjoining all Clubs in the District to continue and expand Literacy projects with their adopted schools to ensure good future for our youth. Main Speaker for the morning session was Dr. Corazon Rubio, last years Golden Wheel Awardee for Basic Education and Superintendent of the Dept of Education QC Division of Schools, who gave an update on what the DepEd has been doing in preparation for the implementation of the K12 program and giving suggestions on how Rotary can help bridge the gaps. She emphasized that what is needed are additional classrooms, laboratory equipment and skills training for teachers. The group was then divided into breakout sessions for High Schools moderated by AG Nitoy Velasco and for Elementary Schools moderated by LG Dwight Ramos. Each group had Speakers on the significant Literacy projects of RID 3780 such as the Concentrated Language Encounter (CLE) a strategy for teaching language; Project ATTEST a training program for teachers in partnership with Foundation for Upgrading Standards of Education (FUSE); Brigada Eskwela , an assistance program to help prepare the schools for opening of classes; Books Across the Seas (BATS), a book donation program; Super Pinoy Kid Comic cum Coloring Book depicting the values of the 4-way test; and the Busog, Lusog, Talino feeding program in partnership with Jollibee Group Foundation. Some Clubs also shared their signature Literacy Projects such as CHEERS of RC Loyola Heights, BBLISS of RC Paraiso, Sagip Pandinig of RC Timog, Edukasyong Pangkalikasan of RC Diliman North, TESDA scholarship program of RC Cubao West and Career Guidance Testing of RC Kagitingang Cubao. The Interact Committee represented by AG Cristy Dagdag informed the participants from High Schools about Interact, its functions and how to organize one.
A story-telling demonstration was done by Professor Melody Remorca to the delight of her audience with her sound effects and different voices. Highlight of the Summit was the signing of two Memoranda of Agreement, one to Reaffirm the Adoption of QC schools by the Rotary Clubs of RID 3780 and the other on the participation of RID 3780 in the yearly Araw ng Pagbasa conceptualized by Congressman Bolet Banal. In the afternoon, a workshop was conducted to assess the relevance of Rotary literacy projects in adopted schools, to redesign or recommend projects to fit the Vision/Mission of DepEd, and to find ways to bridge the gap for the implementation of the K-12 program. Each group presented their outputs in the plenary session. Afternoon plenary Main Speaker Congressman Winnie Castelo shared his vision for improved standards of education and a better tomorrow. Responses from Principals and from a First Class President Bon Tagum of RC SFDM followed. The program was closed by District Community Service Chair Baby Allado noting the many accomplishments of the Summit and assuring the participants that the District will address the needs as much as possible. The Summit was capped by the awarding of a TV set and DVD player each to the CP Garcia High School, Cubao Elementary School and the P. Bernardo Elementary School. A fourth set was raffled off
and won by Flora Ylagan High School. The success of this activity is due to the joint efforts of the Lead host clubs including Batasan Hills, Commonwealth, Cubao West, Diliman North, Kagitingang Cubao, Kamuning Central, Loyola Heights, New Manila Heights, Paraiso, Quezon City, QC Circle, Roces, SFDM and Timog. Cohosts were: Biak na Bato, Broadway, Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Crame, Cubao South, Cubao Sunrise, Diliman, Holy Spirit, Kamuning East, Katipunan, Lagro Ascension, Masambong, Mega EDSA, Metro Sta. Mesa, New Manila East, North Balintawak, North EDSA, QC Central, Pagasa, Roxas, San Bartolome, Vismin and West Triangle.
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Clubs urged to form Rotary Community Corps to extend their capacity to serve others
by District Community Service Chair PP Ma. Elisa Baby Allado, RC New Manila Heights
Seminar on the Rotary Community Corps (RCC) was held last September 21 at the Global Lounge to inform Clubs about what a Rotary Community Corps is, what its functions are and how to organize one. It was attended by Club Presidents, Service Projects Chairs & officers of existing RCCs. The seminar started with an Inspirational Message delivered by Souvenir photo of RCC Seminar Participants with PDG Jess Cifra, RCC Committee Chair Bong Cruz and DS Mar Cancio for DG Francis District Community Service Chair Baby Allado Rivera who was unable to attend due to pressing matters. and women who aim to attain economic progress and PDG Jess Cifra, President of the Rotary Village Corps find solutions to the problems in a community. Its Foundation, gave a brief history of the Rotary Community mission is to teach members to be responsible for the Corps which is now one of the 9 structured organizations needs of their community with regards to literacy, health, of Rotary International along with the likes of Interact, hunger, water and sanitation, pollution, housing, Rotaract and WCS. He revealed that Mat Caparas, the employment and the environment. It is not a political organization and its members are expected to be cooperative, self-sufficient and develop human potential to its fullest. Rotarians will simply oversee the RCC and may assist them in their projects. District RCC Chair Bong Cruz then showed a step-bystep approach to organizing an RCC which he defined as a force multiplier of a Rotary Club when they collaborate in community development endeavours. This was followed by a workshop where the participants accomplished the RCC Organization Form which is submitted to RI without any required dues. The RCC is expected to submit a report on their projects annually. Those who fail to report for 3 consecutive years are automatically dropped from the roster. In closing, District Community Service Chair Baby Allado enjoined the participants to organize an RCC soonest. She reiterated the statistics shown by the two main speakers of the seminar that there are over 7,500 active RCCs worldwide sponsored by 2,600 Rotary Clubs in 80 countries. In the Philippines there are 1,512 RCCs in the 10 Rotary Districts.
INTERACT Members RCCs Members
only Filipino who became Rotary International (RI) President, introduced the concept of Rotary Village Corps in 1985 when he was still a President-Elect and was formally approved by RI in 1988. The name was eventually changed to its current name Rotary Community Corps (RCC). He then cited effective projects of RCCs all over the world and in the Philippines. He explained that RCC is a group of non-Rotarian men
By the GML Editors: ROTARY Members ROTARACT Members
1,220,115
Clubs
133,860
Clubs
365,125
Clubs
174,547
Corps
34,558
5,820
15,875
7,589
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Class O - The crme de la crme First Place and Over all CHAMPION RC AYALA HEIGHTS A First Runner- up Second Runner - up Third Runner - up
Class A First Place and CHAMPION First Runner- up Second Runner - up Third Runner - up Class B
First Place and CHAMPION First Runner- up Second Runner - up Third Runner - up RC Metro Sta Mesa RC Diliman Silangan RC Paraiso RC Metro SFDM
First Runner- up Second Runner - up Third Runner - up
Lutong Rotarian challenges culinary skills as it builds fellowship & public image
by District Vocational Training Chair PP Jose Joemon Montenegro, RC Pag-asa and Rtr Kat Montenegro
ast October 15, 2013, the RI District 3780 2ndLutong Rotarian was held at the Fairview Branch of Gateways Institute of Science and Technology, a technical-vocational school founded by AG Joemon Montenegro, chairman for the District Vocational Training Sub-Committee. The Lutong Rotarian is a project of the District Vocational Service Committee which is chaired by PP Edgardo Ed Ayento. The main host of the event was RC Pag-asa QC with 18 co-host clubs. Before the actual competition, professional chefs talked about the methods of cooking, the types of kitchen equipment and their usage, food safety and sanitation, and meal preparation. Because of the useful information presented, it also served as a seminar of both the Rotarian participants and non-participants and the Hotel and Restaurant Services students of GIST. After the participants have been aptly prepared through the seminar, they proceeded to the cooking challenge, which consisted of two parts. Their first challenge was to cook an Heirloom Recipe, which
meant that they had to create a meal from a recipe that has been handed down through the generations of their family. Time limit was ninety minutes. The second challenge was to cook another main dish, but this time all the participants were required to choose from given ingredients in a market basket, and afterward, they had to open the mystery basket with a secret ingredient. The participants were judged based on the following criteria: Taste - 50% Techniques -15% Texture -15% Sanitation -10% Presentation -10% The winners were: Rtn. Marites F. Guiam of RC Diliman North, 2nd Runner Up; Rtn Jose G. Umali of RC Loyola Heights; and the Champion, Rtn. Milagros U. Abu Hussein of RC Quezon City Central. While one of the main purposes of the Lutong Rotarian was to enhance and showcase the participants culinary skills, it is also an enjoyable means of fellowship among the
participants and members of the Rotary clubs that were present. And it seems that even Governor Francis Rivera himself, who graced the occasion, recognized the potential for Lutong Rotarian to be a continuing project. He even suggested that all governors should be participants, as he himself was willing and eager to take part in the challenge. PP Ed Ayento also added that this was a worthwhile project that may also boost the public image of Rotary. AG Joemon, who has been the organizer of the Lutong Rotarian for the past two years, hopes that future leaders of District 3780 will continue this worthwhile project, which he believes is beneficial not only to participants but also to everyone who would be watching and participating in the seminars conducted by professional chefs. He invites all Rotarians to keep on supporting and ensuring the success of the Lutong Rotarian for years to come.
he Rotary Club of Loyola Heights (RCLH) has always been known for its Spiritual Formation and Development programs. This is made possible by the presence and active participation of 3 Rotarian Catholic priests led by charter member Fr.Jesus Jess Fernandez, SJ, ably assisted by Rotarians Fr. Manuel Bong Bongayan, SVD and Fr. Alfredo Freddie Sabado, SVD. Since its chartering, the Annual Mass Wedding initiated by Fr. Jess has become a signature project of the RCLH. It aims to provide couples from the depressed areas who are either living together or are civilly wed the benefit of having a Church wedding. They are provided with marriage enhancement seminars prior to the scheduled mass wedding. The RCLH sponsors the cost of the wedding including the rings, arrhaes, veils, floral bouquets and a simple but meaningful reception. To date, more than a thousand couples have benefitted from this program. The RCLH has also introduced the St. Ignatius Marriage Encounter and Family Encounter Series. This twice a year activity is intended to provide members, relatives, colleagues and friends with a 3-day live-in marriage enrichment program in order to further strengthen the marriage ties and family relations of the participating couples. Now on its 9 th year with more than 300 couple beneficiaries including many of the members of the RCLH.
Finally, the RCLH through its 3 spiritual advisers conducts regular Lenten and advent recollections for the members and their families. Masses are also con-celebrated during special club occasions and commemorations.
COPS 2013: The good eggs in the police basket are recognized for excellence
By Senior Deputy District Secretary Roberto Bong Cruz, RC New Manila East
hey came from all corners of the archipelago, with ranks varying from SPO1 to Superintendent, but they all have one thing in common. They all used the community as an effective tool for accomplishing their job of crime prevention and more importantly, crime solution. And yes, they are all winners of the 2013 nationwide search for the Countrys Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS). This annual and nationwide search is a partnership among the Metrobank Foundation, the Philippine Savings Bank, the Philippine National Police, and the Rotary Club of New Manila East. Annually, four commissioned officers and six noncommissioned officers are chosen among nominees from the PNPs 17 regions. This year, there were more than 150 policemen-nominees, the highest ever in the history of the search, says RCNME First Class President Fausto Osty Manlapaz. The final Board of Judges which selected this years outstanding COPS was co-chaired by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and Chairman Francisco Duque II of the Civil Service Commission. Congressman Niel Tupas, Jr. of the 5th District of Iloilo served as Vice Chairman with Bataan Provincial Governor Albert Garcia, Philippine Daily Inquirer President Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, Lina Group of Companies Chairman Alberto Lina and SGV Foundation Chairman and President Cirilo Noel as members. The COPS awardees were feted together with the winners of the Search for the Outstanding Teachers (SOT) and The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) in ceremonies honoring them collectively as Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos last September 5, 2013, as one of the highlights of the Metrobanks anniversary celebration. Each winner received a cash price of P300,000 and specially-designed trophy and medal from the Metrobank Foundation. Recognizing Excellence in Public Service Pres. Manlapaz emphasizes that the search for COPS recognizes the shared responsibility between the police officers and the community. The COPS Award seeks to identify gallant men and women in the police force who
are able to work with the community to prevent and solve crime. This award is not for the police officers who shoot it out with the bad guys. This is for the police officers who use the community who tell them who the bad guys are, he adds. History of the Competition The program started in 1988 as a brainchild of DGE
Sammy Pagdilao, himself a multi-awarded police officer, when the Rotary Club of New Manila East established the Best Community Oriented Policemen (Best COP) Award. This was in recognition of the important role of the vocational and community service component of police work in the pursuit of peace and order. Starting as an award for police officers in Metro Manila, the competition was expanded nationwide, garnering the support of the PNP and the Metrobank Foundation, which has been having its own police recognition program since 1999. Awards and recognitions for COPS Awards The COPS Awards has won numerous local and international awards. After consistently winning for several years the District award for the Most Outstanding Vocational Club Service Project, it was finally enshrined in the District Hall of Fame in that category. Rotary International recognized it in the field of Public Relations. It has also received Anvil Awards from the PR Society of the Philippines, Quill Awards from the International Association of Business Communicators and various commendations from the Philippine National Police.
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The COPS with Senate President Frank Drilon and other leaders of the Senate of the Philippines
The COPS with Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and other leaders of the House of Representatives
SFDM Mobile Surgery Unit extends medical service during milestone in Philippine TV
By FC President Andrei Bon Tagum, RC SFDM
he Rotary Club of San Francisco Del Monte was recently bestowed the honor of being part of the historic ABS CBN 60th Anniversary Celebrations at the Quezon City Memorial Circle last October 5, 2013. The RCSFDM was tapped to provide free medicalsurgical services through its renowned Mobile Surgery Unit (MSU) led by Clubman and multi-awarded surgeon, Dr. Jim Sanchez. The MSU Medical Mission was covered live as part of the Salamat Dok TV program which was aired from 6 am to 7 am. During the live coverage, RCSFDM FCP Andrei Bon C. Tagum and Rtn. Dr. Jim Sanchez were interviewed by Salamat Dok segment host Jing Castaneda as to the beginnings and the purpose for the Mobile Surgery Unit. Health Secty Enrique Ona later joined the Medical Surgical Mission and personally checked on the Cleft Lip surgery of a child by Dr. Sanchez. Secretary Ona expressed his admiration for the MSU and congratulated the Club for its unique service project. He later suggested that the PhilHealth may be able to reimburse the cost of the surgeries of the indigent patients. The MSU Medical Mission was successfully conducted in partnership with the following service partners: the Inner Wheel of San Francisco Del Monte led by Pres. Polly Cuntapay, the Rotaract Club of San Francisco Del Monte-Malaya Achievers led by Pres. Sunshine Rayoso, the Rotary Club of North Edsa led by FCP Danny Ferrer,
RC Biak na Bato led by FCP Jolan Salino, RC VisMin led by FCP Rey Ornillo, RC Cosmopolitan Cubao led by FCP Jimmuel Naval, RC New Payatas led by FCP Alex Mercado, RC Diliman Heights led by FCP Mhejost Ruiz Gonzales, RC San Bartolome led by FCP Vega Chavez, RC Roces led by FCP Mar Marfal, and the Alpha Phi Beta Fraternity led by NLRC Commissioner Alex Lopez By the end of the Mission, 50 surgical patients had been served for Cleft Lip, Hernia, Cyst Removal, etc. The MSU was partially funded by Rotary International Matching Grant No. 79370 in partnership with RI District 3060 India. The MSU Mission and the lead host club RCSFDM was again prominently acknowledged during the TV Patrol evening news, for their valuable contribution to the 60th Anniversary Celebrations of television in the Philippines. This is the second time this Rotary Year 2013-2014 that the MSU Medical Mission of RCSFDM was televised by ABS CBN through the Salamat Dok TV Program. The first was during the MSU Medical Mission conducted by the Club at Bustos, Bulacan where 100 surgical patients had been served.
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s second parents to millions of children across the country and a source of guidance for them well into adulthood, our teachers play a central role in shaping the Filipino people. Teaching is long term and exhausting work that shapes the spirit of students. Special education teachers, in particular, need to contribute love and dedicated effort in nurturing their students with special educational needs. To recognize our SPED educators and institutions providing the best educational services to children with special learning needs, the Rotary Club of Camp Aguinaldo, together with other co-host clubs and in cooperation with the Department of Education and the AFP, held a
three hour workshop where they were taught "relaxation and meditation techniques" in the morning of the same day from 8 to 11 am at the CRS Hall in Camp Aguinaldo. After lunch they were brought to the P. Bernardo Elementary School for the Recognition portion of the activity. The program gave emphasis to the challenges facing the SPED teaching profession. It was dedicated to teachers of a different breed, our unsung heroes who toil everyday to make this world a better place to live. Since they give color to the world of children with special needs., it was only fitting and proper that we recognize their effort in a special way by making them feel special, even if just for a day. Highlights of the event was the Creative Silence portion whereby deaf students rendered the invocation and the National Anthem in deaf and sign language, and the Tinikling dance by blind students,
program entitled "Saludo ako sa Titser ko" on October 16, 2013 at 1pm at the P. Bernardo Elementary School. The aim was to give recognition to our SPED educators and the SPED centers in Quezon City. A 'Caring Conversation" workshop preceded the activity whereby 50 teachers from these centers were hosted to a
Co host clubs which supported the tribute to SPED teachers were RC Acropolis, RC Camp Crame, RC Congressional, RC Cubao Central, RC Cubao West, RC Holy Spirit, RC Kamuning, RC Kamuning Central, RC Metro SFDM, RC Pagasa, RC Quezon City, RC Quezon City Central, RC Paraiso, RC Roxas, RC SFDM, RC Timog and RC West Triangle.
What is SPED?
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n celebration of Rotarys Vocational Service Month and of World Teachers Day, RC Cubao South presented Certificates of Appreciation to the eleven (11) teachers of its adopted school, Camarilla Elementary School, last October 5, 2013. The awardees were headed by the schools principal, Mr Geoffrey H Echanis. Camarilla Elementary School is located in Barangay San Roque in Quezon City and has currently a student population of 500. The teachers were recognized for
their outstanding performance and selfless commitment in giving hope and inspiration to the students, and
also for their support in the Clubs activities like the Busog, Lusog, Talino Program.
. . . then commemorates the birthday of FCP Atchie by serving disabled children in Montalban
CP Atchie Baetiong of RC Cubao South meaningfully celebrated her birthday last October 19, 2013 with an outreach program at the Cottolengo Filipino, a home for abandoned children with disabilities, located in Barangay San Rafael, Rodriguez (Montalban), Rizal. Cottolengo Filipino currently houses 40 abandoned and disabled children and finances special education classes for 45 other poor disabled children from the nearby communities. The event, dubbed Gift of Love, consisted of a storytelling session, parlor games, feeding and giving of diapers, soaps, alcohol and toys for the children. FCP Atchie was joined and supported by classmates FCPs Janet Homo of RC Camp Panopio, Danny Ferrer of RC North Edsa, Ramon Ortega of RC San Roque, and Ronnie Collado of RC South Triangle. When Rotary cares, Rotary serves. We love, we care in our own small ways.
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Volunteer doctors and partners of Biak na Bato continue to make more people smile
By FC President Jolan Salino, RC Biak na Bato
otary Club of Biak-Na-Bato's Libreng Pustiso (Free Dentures) mission was held at Our Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela City last October 13, 2013. One hundred twenty (120) street sweepers of the Metro Manila Development Authority were beneficiaries of the project on that day. The clubs "Libreng Pustiso" program has been a long-term commitment, addressing aggressively a felt need among the urban poor who are invariably saddled with financial burdens
and consequently their health concerns are often grossly neglected. To see them smiling with confidence is already a just reward and enough reason for us to continue and sustain this humanitarian community service. After twenty six years of dedicated dental outreach missions, the club was finally recognized for such an endeavor with the PLATINUM AWARD, the only recipient in District 3780 last May 25, 2013. Thanks to our major donor, our fellow Biakero Past President Freddie Ceballos.
Philam provides meals to, trims hair of, reads to and distribute gifts among students
By FC President Dennis Arca, RC Philam QC
he Rotary Club of Philam in partnership with the Crux Tau Ansata Fraternity/Sorority held an outreach project last October 17, 2013 at the North Fairview High School in Quezon City. The school is located in an area which is one of the most adversely affected by typhoons. Over 200 students from 1st to 2nd year level benefited from the project. The program opened with a message from the school principal, Miss Sheridan Evangelista. This was followed by a short inspirational talk of CP Dennis Arca who also announced the good news that the club, through one of its members, will sponsor 1 deserving graduate from North Fairview High School and another 1 from San Fransisco High School. The college scholarship includes tuition and monthly allowance. The feeding program immediately followed, with 20 candidates of Miss MP Advertising 3 helping in the distribution of tinola and rice to the students. Simultane-
ously, some students were given free haircut through the Gupit Linis project of the Club. Miss MP Candidates conducted a reading session which drew positive response from the students. Members of the Club came in full force in ensuring the success of the project with Secretary Kearney Si donating more than 20 dozens of socks to the student attendees. It was indeed a very tiring but satisfying day. New member IPP Jack Wong is looking at donating more books and some office items for the school.
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Diliman North continues to promote breastfeeding to grow more healthy, cute babies
By FC President Marilene Araneta, RC Diliman North
n September 16, 2013, RC Diliman North held a competition called Culiats Healthiest Breastfed Baby, in partnership with the Culiat Health Center in Tandang Sora, Quezon City, and as part of its continued promotion of the importance of breastfeeding. The contest was open to infants 1-6 months of age who were fed purely breast milk, i.e., no supplementary food given. Out of 40 participants (mother-child teams), six (6) winners were declared, one from each age group. Judging was based on the following: height, weight, responsiveness and cute factor for the babies. Additional points were garnered by the baby whose mother went for pre-natal check-up visits at the health center. The panel of judges was headed by District Community Service Dr Ma Elisa Baby Allado who, together with volunteer teachers and mothers, spent more than four (4) hours at the Culiat Health Center to judge the winners. RCDN began promoting the importance of breastfeeding in 2011 through a lecture called, Babies Best Nutritious Food is Free before expectant mothers in Barangay Pasong Tamo Mrs Ines Fernandez, a WHO consultant and Executive Director of Arugaan Day Care, was keynote speaker. Breastfeeding does not incur costs; it is therefore a free source of food for babies. In 2012, the Club conducted a Maternal and Infant Care Program for the Aeta community in Mabala-
cat, Pampanga, focusing on the health of mothers who breastfeed their babies. For the current year, RCDN is promoting breastfeeding as part of environment protection. Dr Marianne Neifert of Dr Moms Guide to Breastfeeding presents strong arguments on how breastfeeding is environment-friendly. She wrote: human milk uses no natural resources and generates no industrial waste. On the other hand, the production of formula, cans, bottles, nipples, labels, packaging and advertising uses trees, metals, glass, plastics, paper and fuel. Artificial feeding of infants creates an enormous volume of waste materials. In hospital nurseries, formula-fed babies are offered a singleuse glass or plastic bottle up to eight times a day. Truly, this is an environment issue which breastfeeding can significantly address.
Camp Crame imbues youth with concern for climate change and disaster preparedness
By FC President Vicente Turdanes, RC Camp Crame
his project gave emphasis on Information and education campaign through seminars, school symposia, visits to barangay local government units, and general
assembly in barangays. The project culminated on September 20, 2013 with the theme A HIGH SCHOOL CLIMATE CHANGE SUMMIT: PAGHAHANDA LABAN SA SAKUNA, ALAY NG RC CRAME PARA SA KALIGTASAN NG MGA KABATAAN. This will be a continuing signature project of the Interactors from Camp Crame High School in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund.
he Rotary Club of Camp Crame with the active participation of Camp Crame High School Interactors the - Crameans organized the continuing project of the club for the environment.
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Cubao West rolls out wheels to provide mobility to 280 indigent beneficiaries
By FC President Josie M. Garcia, RC Cubao West
n September 4th, 280 wheelchairs arrived at the Novaliches Warehouse of PP Joel Guillermo of RC Cubao West. Since Matching Grant No. 77750 was approved more than a year ago, this gift of mobility finally arrived in Quezon City after much preparation and perseverance of the Club. The local wheelchair team was anxious at first because the US Wheelchair team had already arrived but the wheelchairs were still being cleared at our Customs Office. Eventually, the wheelchairs made it safely and were immediately
buffet meals in various restaurants. Members of the Club eagerly conducted the visitors around places of interest like the QC Memorial Circle, UP Diliman and Ateneo campuses, and even brought them to a comedy bar where they were recognized as Rotarians. RC Cubao West showcased some of its projects including the 200meter Batasan Wall Mural painting, medical missions, relief operations, feeding programs, and Club Induction. This great experience of the visiting team has been
scheduled for distribution. In order to reach out to more beneficiaries in the District, the wheelchairs were distributed by RC Cubao West in many locations: Quezon City Hall lobby; Brgy Tandang Sora; Sinagtala Homes at Brgy Bahay Toro; Childhaus at Brgy Pinyahan; Brgy Pasong Tamo; Brgy Batasan Hills; Brgy Kamuning; among others. In addition, more than twenty Rotary Clubs got wheelchair allocations and distributed these to needy beneficiaries in their respective communities. For easier access and controlled distribution, the wheelchairs were transferred to a building administered by PE Ed Zaragoza. Quezon City is known to be the richest city in the Philippines yet thousands of patients lack wheelchairs. Proof of this is the large government backlog to fill up requests from indigent residents. Many have had to wait for months before getting their free wheelchairs. To dissuade recipients from selling their new wheelchairs to others as had happened in some instances in the past, the Wheelchair team now requires photos and IDs of the recipients. RC Cubao West attended to the visiting US Wheelchair Distribution Team composed of five Rotarians from North Carolina with the usual Filipino hospitality. Cubao West tempted them with local delicacies like mangoes, leche flan, buko pandan ice cream, pansit, halo halo, and daily
summed by RI D7670 PDG Hamp Shufords remarks: Your Club is a shining beacon. In all my years, Ive never seen such an active club...It makes me proud to be a Rotarian. Brief background of the wheelchair project The Rotar y Foundation approved in August 2012 Matching Grant No. 77750 for 560 wheelchairs funded with matched funds from Rotary Club of Foster City, RI District 7670 North Carolina, USA. The wheelchairs were intended for needy beneficiaries with mobile disabilities in RI District 3820 (Southern Luzon) and District 3780 (Quezon City). Each District had been allocated 280 wheelchairs in 6 sizes. Local project partners are the Rotary Club of Lucena South (D3820) and Rotary Club of Cubao West . The US Wheelchair Team arrived in Manila to help distribute the wheelchairs in the two Philippine districts from August 25 through September 8, 2013.
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Seminars to empower youth with proper knowledge on sexuality are held in high schools
By FC President Josie M. Garcia, RC Cubao West
.E.S. to S.E.X. is the tagline of the controversial project of Rotary Club of Cubao West. The Youth Empowerment on Sexuality (Y.E.S.) Seminar is geared towards recognizing the dignity and worth of every human being, especially the youth. Aimed for 3rd and 4th year high school students, this DepEd endorsed YES Seminar is part of a Chastity Education Program that actively engages the youth to understand the physical, spiritual and emotional changes that go along with growing up. Spearheaded by the Batang Quezon City Foundation, Inc. and partnering with RC Cubao West and Digma ng Buhay Foundation, this YES Seminar is being delivered in the six (6) Congressional Districts of Quezon City since August 2013. Ranging from 200 to 250 student participants, equally divided according to gender, the YES seminar runs from 8am to 12nn in 12 pre-selected Public Schools. Hosted ably by Mr. Ansel Beluso, a veteran writer and radio host, the YES Seminar is a mix of lecture, film showing, workshop and other interactive exercises, with kits, snacks and simple graduation rites to top it off. The youth are progressively introduced to face their own sexuality without malice nor nervous discrimination. The sensitive topics are discussed objectively without social
prejudice; correcting the immature and usually misleading avalanche of information taken from the Internet, from tabloids and magazines, and even from fellow youths and barkadas. The youth are empowered by correct knowledge on their sexual development allowing them to make educated and more mature decisions. Beneficiary Schools E. Rodriguez Jr. High School San Francisco High School Commonwealth High School Batasan National High School Carlos P Garcia High School Quirino High School Quezon City High School Ramon Magsaysay High School North Fairview High School Novaliches High School Culiat High School Tandang Sora National High School
Rotaractors & Interactors of D3780 build acquaintance and fellowship during Halloween Party
by District Rotaract Secretary Kevin Laragan and President Alyssa Lincuna, RAC Holy Spirit
With all-out support from RC Holy Spirit, the Rotaract and Interact Clubs of Holy Spirit hosted the District Halloween Party on October 27, 2013 at the Don Antonio Heights Clubhouse. The venue was spook-tacularly dressed up, using hand-made materials artistically executed by the hosts. The Interact Club of JP Laurel High School/Loyola Heights led by President Jomar Ribon, Rotaract Club of Timog led by President Gemma Alamani, and Rotaract Club of SFDM-Malaya Achievers led by President Sunshine Rayoso came to have fellowship and fun. FCP Josie Garcia of RC Cubao West attended with her lovely daughters.
Gracing the occasion were DRR Gillian Nicole Alamani, Asst DRR Patrict Hermoso, Chief of Staff Giselle Figuracion, District Secretary Louie de Real. Also lending support to the event by their presence were District Youth Service Chair Johann Montellano and District Rotaract Chair Marby Montellano. It was a night of eating, fun games, nice raffle prizes, hilarious hosting, and an occasion to enjoy each others company!
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Ron D. Burton
President, Rotary International 2013-14
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FEATURED STORIES
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Read the case study behind the new visual identity for Rotary
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2013 Winners
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Recognition of Contributors
District Governor Francis Rivera and the editors thank Rotarians who have contributed stories for this October issue of the Governors Monthly Letter.
District Membership Development Chair LG Dwight Ramos, RC Quezon City, for the article on the District Membership Recognition events on Page 4. District Community Service Chair Ma. Elisa Baby Allado, RC New Manila Heights, for coverage of two district events Literacy Summit 2013 on Page 5 Seminar on Rotary Community Corps on Page 6 PP Marilyn Manabat of RC Cubao West for the results of Rotabowl 2013 on Page 7 District Vocational Training Chair Jose Joemon Montenegro, RC Pag-asa, for Lutong Rotarian article on Page 8. PP Jesse Tanchanco, RC Loyola Heights, for the Spiritual Formation and Development Project written on Page 9. Senior Deputy District Secretary Roberto Bong Cruz of RC New Manila East for the article covering COPS 2013, the Clubs Hall of Fame project, on Pages 10 & 11. FC President Andrei Bon Tagum of RC SFDM for coverage of one of the missions of the Clubs widely known Mobile Surgery Unit, on Page 12. FC President Robert Camba of RC Camp Aguinaldo for the article about the Clubs commemoration of vocational service month with SPED teachers, on Page 13. FC President Atchie Baetiong of RC Cubao South for the article on Page 14 where the Club honored the dedication and outstanding performance of school teachers, and then extended outreach service to disabled children in Montalban. FC President Jolan Salino of RC Biak na Bato for the article on the Clubs signature project, Free Dentures for Indigent Patients, on Page 15. FC President Dennis Arca of RC Philam for a project that benefitted 200 students of North Fairview High School, on Page 15. FC President Marilene Araneta of RC Diliman North for the article covering the Clubs advocacy for breastfeeding, on Page 16. FC President Vicente Turdanes of RC Crame for the report on the Clubs initiative to imbue the youth with concern for climate change, on Page 16. FC President Josie M. Garcia, RC Cubao West, for articles on two Clubs projects Large-scale Matching Grant supported wheelchair distribution project on Page 17 Seminars on Youth Empowerment on Sexuality on Page 18 District Rotaract Secretary Kevin Laragan and President Alyssa Lincuna of RAC Holy Spirit for report on the District Halloween Party for Rotaractors & Interactors, Page 19.
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