2025 October

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲-𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 by FRANCESCO AREZZO President, Rotary International, Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy

  October is Rotary’s Community Economic Development Month, a time to spotlight our efforts to help communities build thriving, sustainable futures. This month’s observance aligns perfectly with the Rotary core value of leadership.

 Leadership means empowering people to guide their own progress. That is precisely what Rotary’s economic development projects aim to achieve.

 Take, for example, a recent initiative in southern India in which Rotary members unlocked the power of women of the Adivasi tribal groups through sewing training to earn a living and regain social inclusion. Historically, widows and abandoned women in this region lose social standing and are shunned by society or blamed for their misfortunes. Opportunities to support themselves or obtain training are minimal.

 This year, the Rotary Club of Windsor‑Roseland, Ontario, partnered with clubs in Districts 3203 and 3234 in India — and with the Indian organization Sevalaya Trust — to provide sewing machines and training to 80 Adivasi women. They learned to stitch saree blouses, kurta tunics, and salwar suits, enabling them to support themselves and their families. Each woman received a certificate for completing the program, and the sewing‑machine provider offered free long‑term maintenance for the machines. The project offered vital income and dignity to women ostracized by society after widowhood.

This story is one example of Rotary leadership in action: local people guiding solutions that address their community needs. Our role is not to deliver charity or to impose outside models, but to foster self‑reliance by investing in leadership, skills, and sustainable enterprise.

 This October, I invite Rotary members worldwide to reflect on economic leadership in their communities. Who is stepping forward to lead local economic initiatives? Where is there untapped talent that could be supported with training or mentorship? How can your club catalyze opportunity through partnerships with local businesses, vocational schools, or savings groups?

 Leadership is not always about being visible. Sometimes it means listening, working collaboratively, and amplifying the voices of others. That approach lies at the heart of Rotary’s philosophy and our lasting impact on economic development.

 By building capacity — whether through microcredit groups, vocational training workshops, or entrepreneurship programs — we enable communities to lead their own transformation. When people take ownership of their progress, change becomes sustainable.

 Let us lead with good intention and provide support with heart. By nurturing local leadership, we can create opportunities that ripple through communities, empowering individuals, families, and societies.

Together, we can support economies that work for everyone and enact community development projects that last.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝

by SUE VILLA SANTA. MARIA Chairman, Philippine Rotary Media Foundation Incorporated

Rotary members around the world unite to mark World Polio Day on October 24 — a powerful reminder of Rotary’s enduring commitment to end polio for good.

For more than four decades, Rotary’s steadfast efforts have driven an amazing 99.9 percent global reduction in polio cases, bringing us closer to a complete eradication of the disease.

We Filipinos can take pride in knowing that this global mission began right here.

On September 29, 1979, in Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati, where the Rotary Club of Makati Clubhouse now stands, the first Rotary Health, Hunger and Humanity (3H) project was launched.

The historic signing between then Philippine Secretary of Health Enrique Garcia and Rotary International President James Bomar marked the start of organized polio immunization in the world.

On that day, President Bomar personally administered the first oral polio vaccine to a Filipino child — an unforgettable moment made possible by then District Governor Rafael “Paing” G. Hechanova.

This pioneering effort, which vaccinated six million Filipino children, became the foundation for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) launched in 1988.

Today, GPEI brings together Rotary, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. CDC, Gavi, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, alongside national governments, to ensure every child is protected.

The Philippines was declared wild polio-free in 2000, yet the 2019 vaccine-derived outbreak reminded us that vigilance must never wane.

Sustained immunization remains vital to keeping the disease at bay.

Today, only Afghanistan and Pakistan remain endemic.

The finish line is near — but the final steps are usually the hardest. Rotary’s long-term investment and global partnerships make finishing the job possible.

One day, polio will exist only in history books

𝐓𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 by SONNY COLOMA Philippine Rotary Magazine Editor-in-Chief Whenever Rotarians engage in light banter, vignettes on how the most serious matters could be wrapped in humor emerge.

Try asking a club president how he or she reached the peak, and you are likely to be told, “I stepped out of the meeting for a comfort break, and when I returned, they told me I’m the new president-elect.”

Yet, the same narrators of such folk tales will quickly tell you that, indeed, they regard being elected to lead a club as a most auspicious attainment.

In Rotary, it’s the club president that is pivotal in determining how well Rotarians will combine their talents and resources to bring about beneficial outcomes in terms of service to the community and beyond.

Through my more than four decades of being a Rotarian, I have been privileged to witness how new leaders have emerged, stepped up and risen to the occasion.

By dint of their native talent, as well as their extraordinary devotion to duty, they invariably chalk up notable deeds that have continually raised the bar of service excellence.

Since the pandemic era when our toughness and resiliency as Rotarians were put to test severely, we have been blessed by a procession of young and emergent leaders.

They deftly evaded being sidelined by the contagion and crafted imaginative ways of delivering services under the most stringent quarantine and lockdown conditions.

I salute our Rotaractors who never seemed to run out of simple yet effective ways of gathering resources such as face masks and shields, personal hygiene kits, and food stuff, that were conveyed to needy communities in a timely and orderly manner.

Kudos, too, to our present crop of club presidents and leaders whose vigor and enthusiasm in showing Rotary cares seem unbounded.

They provide proof positive of Rotarians’ seemingly unlimited capacity to unite for good.

𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏

By HOLGER KNAACK, The Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair Friendship in Rotary often bears fruit that can change the world.

When I was Rotary president-elect, I served on the Board of Directors alongside then-Vice President Olayinka “Yinka” Hakeem Babalola from Nigeria.

My wife, Susanne, spent time with Yinka’s wife, Preba “Precy” Babalola. Yinka and Precy support The Rotary Foundation, not only as Arch Klumph Society members, Benefactors, and Major Donors but also as Rotary members who are deeply involved in Foundation projects.

Susanne and Precy’s friendship led to their clubs joining forces.

For October, as Rotary marks Community Economic Development Month, I thought Precy Babalola could best capture the impact of their collaboration in her own words:

“𝑶𝒃𝒖𝒂𝒎𝒂, 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒂, 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒊𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝑶𝑽𝑰𝑫-19. 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒅𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒔, 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒖𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈-𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔.

𝑴𝒚 𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒃, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒍𝒖𝒃 𝒐𝒇 𝑷𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒕 𝑷𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕, 𝒅𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒅.

𝑾𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑬-𝑪𝒍𝒖𝒃 𝒐𝒇 𝑯𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒈-𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒉 𝒂 𝒈𝒍𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒍 𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒆𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒊𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚.

𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓 250 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒅𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒊𝒔𝒉, 𝒑𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒓𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒏𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝒂𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈.

𝑳𝒐𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒔 𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒔-𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒔, 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒑𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔.

𝑭𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒍.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒚.

𝑾𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏, 𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒄𝒌, 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒃𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒍𝒆, 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒋𝒐𝒃𝒔 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒇𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔.

This is what change looks like when dedicated Rotarians work together with the support of The Rotary Foundation.

Community economic development is an area of powerful projects for many reasons.

We have experts in our clubs who know how businesses can strengthen their local economy.

Such projects can be adapted nearly anywhere and often show early signs of success.

Our Foundation, too, provides the expertise of an engaged professional staff and the Cadre of Technical Advisers.

What began as dinner conversation led to a lifechanging global grant.

Isn’t it remarkable that in Rotary, the friendships we make can create opportunities that transform lives for generations?

𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐩𝐞𝐢 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔 Sacred temples, cloud-busting skyscrapers, mountain getaways, incomparable food, and a dazzling nightlife: Come explore Taipei, home of the 2026 Rotary International Convention.

2026 Rotary International Convention

TAIPEI, TAIWAN | 13-17 JUNE 2026

Register and pay in full by 15 December 2025, before prices increase, at convention.rotary.org  

𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝟏𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 by DIVINA GRACE “DEE” ANTANG

“𝑹𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 — 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝑹𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆.” - GINA T. SANCHEZ, Rotary International District 3800 Governor

This feature appeared in the October 2025 Magazine: https://www.philippinerotarymagazine.com/magazines/202510prm

In Rotary, goodness is never passive — it inspires, it moves, and it creates.

For more than a century, Rotary has shown that from the spark of goodwill come achievements that shape communities and transform lives. What began as a simple gathering of professionals has grown into a global movement of more than 1.4 million people, bound together by a shared vision: to create hope, peace, and lasting change.

Today, Rotary is a century strong. We continue to innovate, to reimagine service, and to create firsts that make a meaningful difference. Each new generation of leaders builds upon this tradition, carrying forward the timeless call to place Service Above Self.

This year, District 3800 embraces a vision that is bold in its simplicity and transformative in its reach: No Club Left Behind.

VISION: NO CLUB LEFT BEHIND

Unite for Good is rooted in a powerful idea: nobody should feel left out.

In District 3800, this means ensuring every Rotary club — regardless of size, age, or location — feels supported, valued, and empowered to make a difference. Whether a club has five or fifty members, decades of history or just a few years of experience, each carries its own culture, traditions, and strengths.

When clubs’ strengths are recognized, celebrated, and connected, the entire district becomes stronger. When clubs collaborate and share resources, their reach expands and their impact multiplies.

This vision is focused on people. It is about listening, building trust, and cultivating a culture where Rotarians feel they belong. Smaller clubs are honored with the same respect as larger ones. Ideas can emerge from anywhere. Leadership can blossom at every level.

No Club Left Behind is a call and an invitation to stand as one Rotary family, lifting each other up and proving that inclusion strengthens both members and communities.

This Rotary year, District 3800 focuses on building a true culture of belonging. Every club will be lifted, every bond strengthened, and the meaning of service enriched. Guided by District Governor Gina T. Sanchez, growth, collaboration, and impact are not only goals but also a shared roadmap.

GROWING WITH PURPOSE

Clubs are encouraged to grow by at least two new members — but the heart of this initiative goes beyond numbers. The deeper goal is connection. Every Rotarian should feel valued, seen, and at home. Growth will be measured not only in membership but also in friendship, participation, and fulfillment.

The district embraces Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as guiding principles. Rotary’s true strength lies in the diversity of its members — their professions, talents, and lived experiences. By celebrating these differences, District 3800 expands its capacity to serve and innovate.

HAND-IN-HAND WITH ROTARACTORS

Rotaractors are not the leaders of tomorrow— they are leaders of today. District 3800 recognizes this by placing Rotaractors in every district standing committee. Their fresh perspectives, energy, and creativity enrich planning and execution, ensuring Rotary remains relevant and responsive to evolving challenges.

By co-creating programs with Rotaractors, the district not only strengthens intergenerational collaboration but also invests in Rotary’s future.

PROMOTING NEW CLUB MODELS

Rotary thrives when it adapts. Flexible and innovative club models — whether interest-based, cause-based, or alumni-led — offer new ways for people to align their passions with Rotary’s mission. These models expand reach and relevance, creating space for professionals, young people, and alumni to reconnect with service in ways that fit their lives.

REFOCUSING SERVICE PROJECTS

Service remains Rotary’s heartbeat. Clubs are encouraged to focus on one high-impact project aligned with any of Rotary’s seven Areas of Focus. By concentrating resources and energy, projects become deeper, more sustainable, and more measurable. The goal is quality over quantity — fewer projects, but with greater long-term impact.

STRENGTHENING THE ROTARY FOUNDATION

The Rotary Foundation fuels Rotary’s mission. District 3800 is committed to strong support, setting ambitious but achievable targets:

• 85 percent of clubs qualify as EREY (Every Rotarian, Every Year) and Foundation Giving Clubs.

• 20 percent of the District Designated Fund (~$62,390) allocated to PolioPlus.

• $1,500 per club fundraising goal for PolioPlus.

• $10,000 DDF contribution to Rotary’s Endowment Fund, building a legacy for future generations.

This roadmap is more than a plan — it is a shared commitment to serve inclusively, collaboratively, and purposefully.

FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

“We began this Rotary year with a simple promise: to work side by side, to support every club, and to let service lead the way. Three months hence, we’re already seeing that promise take shape,” says District Governor Gina T. Sanchez

The first quarter of the Rotary Year emphasized listening, equipping, and moving forward. Clubs received new tools, expanded service opportunities, and stronger connections — all laying the groundwork for meaningful change.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR GROWTH

The district upgraded its website, making it more accessible, interactive, and welcoming. The Governor’s Monthly Letter (GML) evolved into a vibrant platform for storytelling, highlighting club projects and member experiences.

Governor’s Visits were reimagined into authentic conversations, creating space for honest dialogue and mutual learning.

All clubs submitted three-year strategic plans aligned with district priorities. A new reporting system and active use of the Rotary Learning Center improved leadership development and accountability.

Before July 1, Presidents-Elect completed Training Needs Analysis surveys. A district-wide classification and advocacy survey mapped members’ professions and passions — valuable data for networking and resource-sharing. Two new committees — Data Analytics and Strategic Planning — now ensure decisions are guided by insight, not instinct.

SERVICE THAT TOUCHES LIVES

Service projects during the first quarter embodied Rotary’s heart:

Goodness for Kids Initiative delivered support to children and families.

Unite for Good projects brought clubs together in collective service.

Rotary Peace Poles were installed as symbols of peace and unity.

Service Projects Expo (August) gathered 109 clubs and partner organizations to showcase, learn, and collaborate — an inspiring, professional-level exhibition of Rotary in action.

District grant funds supported 90 clubs. Major Donors and Paul Harris Fellows were recognized for their generosity. The Vibrant Roadshow brought training and updates directly to members, making Rotary knowledge accessible to all.

A DISTRICT MOVING AS ONE

The first quarter reflected a district shifting from planning to implementation. Modernized systems, visible leadership, and cross-club collaboration created a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Listening to members, amplifying diverse voices, and investing in both seasoned and emerging leaders nurtured a district culture of belonging.

With these foundations, District 3800 is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

INNOVATING IN REAL TIME

District 3800 is proving that Rotary can be both timeless in values and forward-looking in methods. Innovation, creativity, and technology are transforming the way the district serves and communicates.

The district website (rotarydistrict3800.org) now serves as a dynamic dashboard — a hub for real-time updates, interactive tools, and accessible information.

The Public Image Committee went fully digital, producing broadcast-style communications. Wheels in Motion, the official news platform, keeps members and partners informed through engaging, professional content.

The GML is now a digital magazine with stories, visuals, and features that celebrate clubs and members. Released every 10th of the month and mirrored on the website, it ensures a unified district experience.

Held at a professional exhibition center, the Service Expo became a flagship event. Clubs presented their initiatives through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, proving that service can be showcased as both inspiring and professional. Partner organizations joined in, reflecting Rotary’s collaborative spirit.

SPIRIT OF UNITE FOR GOOD

District 3800 is not only embracing change — it is leading it. By innovating in real time, fostering inclusion, and prioritizing collaboration, the district sets a model for modern Rotary.

This year is not about doing things differently for its own sake — it is about doing things better. Each first is a doorway to more effective service, stronger clubs, and deeper connections.

“This Rotary year, District 3800 unites for good, turning creativity, courage, and compassion into firsts that empower Rotarians, strengthen clubs, and transform communities. With District Governor Gina T. Sanchez at the helm, every Rotarian engages fully, every club grows stronger, and every community experiences the lasting power of goodness in action.”

The author is a member of RC Mandaluyong Uptown and Editor-in-Chief of the Governor’s Monthly Letter of D3800.

A LIFE OF LEADING AND SERVING

by DIVINA GRACE “DEE” ANTANG

District Governor Gina T. Sanchez begins her term with strength, clarity, and vision. Leading Rotary International District 3800 for Rotary Year 2025–2026, she combines decades of professional success with a deep devotion to service, positioning her to guide the district toward a year of meaningful impact.

For District Governor Gina, Rotary is more than an organization — it is a community and a way of life. Guided by the principle of Service Above Self, her journey reflects leadership, humility, and purposeful action. From her early years in Bulacan to her role today as District Governor, she has lived by the belief that values are strongest when put into practice.

Growing up in Obando, Bulacan, as the youngest of eight children of the late Eusebio Thia and Conchita Banag, Gina learned early the values of hard work, perseverance, and gratitude. These lessons shaped her leadership style. Excelling in academics, she graduated Valedictorian of Catanghalan Elementary School and Salutatorian of St. Pascual Institute.

She went on to earn her BS in Business Administration, major in Accounting, from the Philippine School of Business Administration (PSBA) in Quezon City, graduating cum laude and Most Outstanding Graduate. Later, she completed her MBA in Finance and Management at PSBA Manila.

Her professional career is both diverse and accomplished. Currently, she serves as President and CEO of A27 Ventures Corporation. She has also served as Executive Vice President and NSTP Director at PSBA, consultant for the National Housing Authority and the Quezon City Government, Vice President for Finance at Firm Builders Realty Development Corporation, and Corporate Executive Officer II at the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). 

Across these roles, Gina has consistently led with integrity and vision. Her Rotary journey began in Rotary Year 1991–1992 as a Group Study Exchange Team Member to Arkansas, USA. She joined the Rotary Club of San Juan in 2006, serving as Club President in 2010–2011, Prime Minister of the League of Global Presidents in 2013–2014, and Chair of the TRF Awards Committee for Zone 10A, among others. Her dedication has earned numerous honors: Most Outstanding President, Most Outstanding Assistant Governor, District Officer of the Year, Rotarian of the Year, the Rotary Foundation Meritorious Service Award, and the Regional Service Award for a Polio-Free World. She is also a Major Donor Level 3 of The Rotary Foundation, a testament to her commitment to Rotary’s mission.

Beyond her public service, Gina treasures her family. She honors the memory of her late husband, Rodolfo C. Sanchez, and foster parents, Tatay Pepe and Nanay Thesia Peralta. She is a proud mother to Kevin Francis, Karl Michael, and Kristel, whose support and shared values continue to inspire her.

For District Governor Gina, Rotary embodies shared purpose, compassion, and hope. “I believe we can make a real difference together,” she affirms. “Rotary changes lives — not only in the communities we serve but also among Rotarians who find meaning and friendship through service.”

With Governor Gina T. Sanchez at the helm, District 3800 forges ahead in upholding Rotary’s legacy while fortifying new bonds of service and fellowship. 

BAKING FOR A LIVING

by ROSALYN MANLANGIT

In September 20, 2025, the Rotary Club of Mandaluyong North (RCMN), in collaboration with Don Bosco Technical College (DBTC) in Mandaluyong City and the Association of Salesian Cooperators (ACS) Mandaluyong Center, carried out their joint signature project, Tinapay ng Buhay Kay Bosco Iaalay.

Now on its third year, the one-day baking session was dedicated to the youth from the provinces that are housed in the Pinardi Migrant Center at DBTC. The program aims to equip 25 participants with basic baking skills and practical techniques that they can use for possible employment or livelihood.

The participants underwent theoretical, hands-on, and practical training: from identifying basic ingredients, measurement, approach, timing, preparation, mixing, kneading, fermentation, shaping, proofing, and baking.

They were able to bake the traditional pandesal, ube pandesal, ensaymada, cinnamon bread, bread roll, and pizza pie. The freshly-baked products were shared and tasted by the Rotarians,

the Pinardi staff and members of the Don Bosco community.

The collective efforts of these organizations reflected their shared commitment to service, empowerment, and holistic youth development, and will help prepare the participants for their future.

Since its inception in 2022, participants have applied their training to earn a living through employment as bakers or bakery assistants, with some putting up their own bakery in their hometowns. Their achievements demonstrate the project’s impact, proving that skill-building initiatives can open real pathways to self-reliance, economic sufficiency and enhanced sense of dignity.

Through this project, the Pinardi youth were not only introduced to the art of baking but were also given a recipe for hope in a brighter and more secure future.

The author is President of the RC Mandaluyong North, D3800.

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐞

by ALMIRA BELMONTE BUCE

On August 30, 2025, Rotary Club of Rodriguez Central (RCRC) held its very first outreach program for Rotary Year 2025-2026 at Molave Youth Home in Payatas, Quezon City. Around 170 Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) and 15 personnel of Molave benefited from the project entitled “Lahat ng Kabataan, May Puwang sa Lipunan”.

The activity started with a holy mass celebrated by Fr. Eric Lacandula, SVD, followed by a Seminar entitled “Paano Malilikha ang Buhay na Nais Mo”. Mr. Meliton R. Darvin, Punong Gabay, Centree E-Therapy Hub, taught the children how to start living their dreams by thinking and acting like they’ve already achieved them. The lecture inspired the children and instilled in them the mindset that our attitude and reactions are influenced by our thoughts, and that life is a product of our thoughts. Positive thoughts attract positive things. Definitely, the talk has enriched the mental and emotional well-being of the children, thus contributing to their readiness for reintegration in society. The outreach program ended with the handing over of washing and cleaning agents for the facility and lunch with the children. The RCRC team was touched by the beautiful “thank you gifts” that were handcrafted by the children.

We extend our gratitude to Ms. Carolina O. Patalinghog (RSW, MP, City Government Department Head 3, Quezon City), Ms. Irma of Molave Youth Home, and Doc. Rhapsody Barruga-Valderrrama for making the event possible.

Together, let’s Unite for Good, foster collaboration, and build a better world.

𝐑𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐝

Signifying a collective commitment to fostering world peace, we hosted last September 16 RI Director Jennifer Scott as she witnessed the unveiling of Rotary Peace Poles, in the company of District Governor Gina Sanchez, Past District Governors Jaime Dee and Edison Ang, Endowment Major Gifts Adviser (EMGA) Penny Policarpio and his spouse Past President Joan, along with District Peace and Conflict Resolution Chair Michael Raymundo.

First venue was Kapit Bahayan Elementary School, where the Rotary Club of Northbay East, led by President Aileen de Guzman and the dedicated members of the club, proudly unveiled their Rotary Peace Pole. The ceremony was graced by Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco who delivered an inspiring message.

RI Director Jennifer Scott and DG Gina Sanchez also shared heartfelt words on peace and Rotary’s mission. We were also joined by District 3800 Peace and Conflict Resolution Co-Chair Vince Bartolome, Deputy District Secretary Brill Chua, Senior Assistant Governor Angie Sioco, Charter President Jess Tan, and other members of RC Northbay East.

Our next stop was the Rotary Club of Navotas Clubhouse, where the club maintains a park and has installed another Rotary Peace Pole. President Cherry Pilos shared her message on the importance of peace, PDG Edison Ang recounted the proud history of the club. The event was a truly memorable and heartfelt gathering.

Next stop was the Rotary Club of Malabon clubhouse, where RI Director Jennifer inspected the ongoing production of Rotary Peace Poles. The welcoming party of RC Malabon members was led by President Samson Go and PDG Jaime Dee. A sumptuous meal followed at a Chinese restaurant in Banawe, Quezon City where we were joined by District Governor Nominee Sherryl Lou Khosiking, and Past President Michael Raymundo.

Though our time with RI Director Jennifer lasted only about six hours, and despite the rain, it was nevertheless filled with learning, inspiration, and heartfelt fellowship. She graciously shared her wisdom, experiences, and inspiring Rotary journey, leaving us all deeply motivated. 

__________ The author, NOEL CUICO, is District 3800 Service Projects Chair and Past President of RC Malabon.

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐋, 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐋

At District 3800’s Service Projects Expo 2025, the Rotary Club of Upper East Side Antipolo (RCUESA) demonstrated the unified action of its members, and their solidarity with the partner Mangyan community from Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

This is a capsule narrative that provides Rotarians with glimpses on how a club mobilizes its resources and harnesses the energies of its stakeholders — from conceptualization of design, gathering of materials, to the procurement of upcycled decors and props.

Our spouses took turns in supervising the preparations for the gourmet fish and liquid soaps, while coordination work was done to check on the harvests of the club’s adopted community in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro so that their coffee beans would be ready for roasting and grinding.

The group of Mangyan women cooked the coco sugar, the perfect match for the coffee to be sold. It took a week for the products from the province to reach Manila via sea and land transport.

Rotarians attached product stickers and repacked the goods in resealable foil pouches. Our lanai was turned into a production-packaging assembly line, with boxes and crates reaching the ceiling.

ARTISTIC DETAILS AND DESIGNS

As designed by Past President Larry and GP Vcky Solis, RCUESA’s booth consisted of three kiosks made out from wooden pallets sourced from the scrap yards in Rizal. Real bamboo poles were cut from the surroundings of Cascades Subdivision, while a couple of discarded old tires were painted colorfully by guest artist Orville Tiamson, assisted by PP Ariel Julgan and spouse Tin.

The booth resembling a community plaza, named RCUESA Tindahan Square, served as a vibrant open-air hub where neighbors gather, stories flow, and local goods find new homes. Here, every exchange is more than a trade. It is a celebration of community and connection rooted in tradition, propagating products grown by the people for neighbors and friends.

Rotarians and guests patronized the Expo for food tasting of the three variants of gourmet fish, namely, dilis, tuyo, and tinapa. Crochet lessons were offered so that others may experience the workshops that RCUESA provides to its RCCs. There was also free product tasting of tapuey, or rice wine, from Sagada.

Guests were requested to sign the bamboo poles which were part of the setup to be repurposed for use at the Panunuluyan ng mga Katutubo in Laiban.

TOTAL EXPERIENCE

The first District Service Projects Expo under District Governor Gina Sanchez made everyone involved proud and happy. All 109 clubs showcased their legacy projects in Rotary’s seven Areas of Focus. Project partners from the private sector and the government were also acknowledged.

This was an occasion for new discoveries, new ideas, meeting old friends while gaining new acquaintances, and finding new opportunities for future collaboration.

The Assumption Antipolo Mothers’ Group RCC, whom we fondly call Sitio Nanays, made us realize how the exposure we opened for them has left deep impressions in their lives. They expressed their appreciation for the RCUESA family and readiness to pursue further collaboration.

This reflects the essence of our theme, Unite For Good, as we make sure that no one is left behind.

__________

The author, VICKY SOLIS, is President of the Rotary Club of Upper East Side Antipolo, District 3800.

𝐁𝐄𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐄𝐑

In collaboration with Cavite State University Brite Center Director, Michele Bono and her team, RC Malabon Central adopted Barangay Harasan, Indang Cavite.

This community is known for its high value vegetables, fruits, and other crops sold at different 'bagsakan' areas. These are their source of livelihood for the community.

The club distributed one stingless beekeeping package to the beekeeping adopters of Barangay Harasan, Indang, Cavite. Each package contained: five stingless bee colonies, one hive tool, five hive boxes, and one bee veil.

RC Malabon Central served as the donor of this beekeeping package for the said barangay. 

The BRITE Center will be extending stingless beekeeping technology to the new beekeeping adopters. This activity aims to promote stingless beekeeping for pollination of crops and important vegetables, for additional sources of income, for biodiversity conservation, and for responsible beekeeping.

This partnership is more than just about bees—it is about building self-sufficiency, promoting environmental awareness, and providing alternative sources of income to strengthen the barangay’s local economy. This project also strengthens agro-urban communities through opportunities in beekeeping.

Bee Happier is not just a project—it’s a movement towards a sweeter, more sustainable future.

Bees be with you!

__________

The author, Grace Sibayan, is President of the Rotary Club of Malabon Central, District 3800.

𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄-𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐀

The citronella plant is widely known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, thanks to its strong citrus fragrance. Beyond this, it’s a bee-, butterfly-, and bird-friendly plant that is easy to grow and offers a variety of personal, household, and community benefits.

In 2011, the Rotary Club of Greater Mandaluyong began planting citronella in the backyard of its Charter President Mila Puyat. What began as a small initiative blossomed into a livelihood project, empowering mothers to produce citronella-based soaps and lotions.

This initiative earned the club a Significant Achievement Award from RI in recognition of both the health benefits and the economic opportunities it brought.

Mosquitoes are not just pests. They can carry deadly diseases such as dengue and malaria — both of which are preventable and treatable when addressed early. Citronella offers a natural and effective line of defense, particularly when the crushed leaves are rubbed directly on the skin to release the essential oils. Indeed, citronella plants serve not only as a natural insect repellent in the form of lotion or oil, but also possess antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The club plants and replants citronella — in backyards, in partnership with LGUs, other Rotary Clubs, religious groups, and communities. It has expanded the project to include citronella oil extraction, producing soaps, oils, and soon, scented candles. These products are sold to support fundraising efforts and create sustainable livelihoods, especially for housewives.

Citronella is more than a mosquito repellent. It can also be used as a culinary herb in teas and desserts, dried and added to potpourri, incorporated into floral arrangements for fragrance and texture, and grown in pots or gardens for its aesthetic appeal and practical use.

Led by President Henry Rosario, the club undertook Project Greenshield by planting citronella in Barangay Manzante, Vigan, Ilocos Sur, and encouraged housewives there to grow citronella plants as a natural personal insect repellent, with the potential to extract the oil and sell it as a side business.

The club also supplied some seedlings for the housewives to propagate. Last Aug. 19, another citronella planting activity was undertaken in Solarenacc. 

𝐆𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐎𝐘

Rich in experience. United in service. Willing to sacrifice. Innovative and flexible. Bound by friendship.

These five qualities top the long list of strengths identified by 22 members of the Philippine National Conference 2027 (Natcon 2027) team during their first strategic planning session on October 11, 2025, at the MCRFI Lounge, Rockwell, Makati.

Natcon 2027 is envisioned as a milestone event that will gather around 10,000 Rotarians from across the Philippines. Scheduled for March 19–20, 2027 at the SMX Convention Center, Manila, it will celebrate Philippine Rotary’s unity in service, fellowship, integrity, diversity, and leadership.

Guided by Rotary’s vision — “Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change” — the event will showcase district achievements, innovations, and the Seven Areas of Focus with Rotary’s Action Plan as the cornerstone.

Beyond learning sessions and project immersions, Natcon 2027 aims to elevate the presence of Philippine Rotary in local communities and among professionals and business leaders nationwide.

Embracing the servant leadership model, the organizing team empowers members to propose ideas and innovations aligned with the national plan. Past RI Director Jocelyn ‘Joc-joc’ Bolante serves as Lead Convenor, with Past RI Directors Guiller Tumangan and Raffy Garcia III as part of the core leadership.

Past District Governor Sam Pagdilao chairs Natcon 2027, assisted by Past District Governor Sid Garcia as Overall Vice Chair. Past District Governor Edna Sutter, supported by Past District Governor Josie Ang, leads Administration, while Past District Governor Chacha Camacho oversees Operations.

During the planning session, Past Directors Bolante and Garcia opened the discussions.

Past District Governor Chito Borromeo presented the event’s vision and success factors, and PP Bong Cruz, on organizational structure. Past District Governor Sue Sta.Maria facilitated the SWOT analysis, after which the Administrative and Operations teams defined goals and success metrics.

Past District Governor Mar Reyes presented risk and contingency plans, and Past District Governor Lewi Tolentino concluded with next steps.

A comprehensive Manual of Procedures diligently developed by PDG Sutter provides valuable guidance as preparations advance toward 2027. She notes that the manual is a work in progress and may evolve over time.

With the theme “Galing ng Pinoy”, the conference promises a uniquely Filipino touch — which includes the “Rotary Tambayan,” the event’s inimitable version of the RI Convention’s House of Friendship.

Indeed, Natcon 2027 will strengthen the collective impact of Rotary’s ten districts, deepen bonds of friendship, and propel Philippine Rotary toward a more vibrant future.

__________

The author, Past District Governor Sue Villa-Sta. Maria, is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Philippine Rotary Magazine Foundation Incorporated.

𝐓𝐀𝐏𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐓

In Rotary, unity transcends borders. Through Intercountry Committees (ICCs), nations come together in friendship and shared purpose—bridging cultures, rebuilding trust, and advancing peace through service.

An Intercountry Committee is a formal partnership between Rotary clubs in two or more countries. It initiates bilateral humanitarian and peace-building activities aligned with the Rotary International Strategic Plan, providing a framework for sustained collaboration and long-term relationships.

The first ICC was born on May 23, 1950, between Germany and France, in the aftermath of World War II. Its mission was to heal the wounds of conflict and rekindle friendship between Rotarians from formerly divided nations.

The success of this pioneering committee inspired similar alliances around the world, demonstrating how service and goodwill can transcend political and cultural divides. Today, ICCs continue to be Rotary’s living expression of peace through understanding, cooperation, and fellowship.

ASEAN CONNECTION

Asia strengthened this global movement through the creation of the Rotary Intercountry Committee ASEAN (RICCA), formally chartered in Singapore on May 13–15, 2022.

Under the leadership of Charter Chairman Past District Governor Rajamohan Munisamy, RICCA was established as a network linking Rotary clubs from ten ASEAN member-countries — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Today, RICCA connects more than 1,600 Rotary clubs and over 42,000 members across the region. Its purpose is to strengthen intercultural understanding and build lasting partnerships through international service, economic development, and peace initiatives. It is a living example of Rotary’s enduring belief that goodwill among nations is the foundation for lasting peace.

CELEBRATION OF LEADERSHIP AND UNITY

On Sept. 15, 2025, RICCA marked a new chapter in its journey at the Solaire Resort North in Quezon City, as the leadership baton passed from Past District Governor Jason Lim of District 3350 (Thailand), RICCA Chair in 2023-2025, to Past District Governor Virgilio “Jun” Farcon, Jr. of District 3800 (Philippines), who will serve as RICCA Chair for 2025–2027.

The momentous handover was honored by the presence of Rotary International Director (RID) Jennifer Scott from New South Wales, Australia.

The event gathered prominent Philippine Rotary leaders including Past RI Directors Guiller Tumangan and Rafael “Raffy” Garcia III, along with incumbent and past district governors from across the ASEAN region.

The international spirit of Rotary was vividly expressed as leaders from the ten member-nations proudly paraded their flags, led by Chairman Jun Farcon, who carried the RICCA banner high.

VOICES OF VISION AND SERVICE

In his valedictory address, outgoing Chairman Jason Lim expressed gratitude to his team for two years of meaningful collaboration and conveyed full confidence in Chairman Farcon’s leadership.

In his acceptance speech, Chairman Farcon inspired the assembly with a challenge: “Let us make the next two years a time of bold initiatives, deeper friendship, and lasting peace. Together, we can. Together, we will.”

RICCA Adviser, Past RI Director Guiller Tumangan, added a profound insight:“Let us turn fellowship in service into business and development plans, and friendships and neighborliness into networks. This is wealth creation from the inside out—powered by Service Above Self and the Four-Way Test.”

He emphasized that ethical leadership must go beyond concept, becoming a daily practice rooted in integrity and compassion.

RID Jennifer Scott, affirming her commitment to support the committee’s work, said: “I am here to assist as I can and where I can. Continue to work and take action to make a difference.”

Tokens of appreciation were presented to RID Scott by Chairman Jun Farcon and his spouse, Zenaida, as well as by District 3800 Governor Gina Sanchez.

The evening culminated in a joyful dance celebration, with RID Scott and PRID Tumangan joining Rotarians on the floor as a lively violinist filled the room with music—a fitting finale to an evening of unity, purpose, and joy.

__________

The author, Past District Governor Sue Villa-Sta. Maria, is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Philippine Rotary Magazine Foundation Incorporated.