A Day Trip to Binuangan Island: Rotary and Rotaract Mission of Hope

On July 11, 2025, a joint project of the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Luntiang Maynila Prime, sponsored by the Regis Foundation, brought a wave of hope to Binuangan Island, Obando, Bulacan. Led by UCP Rod Jason Senoron, UCP Eliona Loureyn Hernandez, and CP Elberto Regis, this heartfelt initiative exemplified the power of community service and compassion in action.

The early morning Manila air was crisp and invigorating, carrying with it the promise of a day dedicated to service, kindness, and connection. The members of the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime gathered with a shared sense of purpose, ready to embark on a journey to extend their hands of hope to a small, resilient community. Our mission was simple yet profound: to bring support, smiles, and a message of hope to the children of Binuangan Elementary School, who, despite facing daily hardships, greet life with warmth and resilience.

Our journey began with a drive from Manila, passing through the sprawling urban landscape that gradually transitioned into the quieter, rural scenes of Bulacan. The familiar chaos of the city gave way to scenes of rice fields, modest homes, and the gentle chirping of birds—replacing the noise of city life with the calming sounds of nature. The air, once thick with Manila traffic fumes, now carried the fresh scent of earth and the salty tang of the nearby sea. Approaching Obando’s fish port terminal, anticipation grew among our group, knowing that soon we would witness firsthand the community’s daily life and bring aid to those in need.

At the fish port terminal, a lively hub of activity, the sights and sounds were vibrant and energetic. Vendors shouted to advertise their catch, metal tools clanged as they processed freshly caught fish, and seagulls swooped overhead, creating a lively soundtrack. It was here that we loaded our supplies—brightly colored boxes filled with school materials, vitamins, and other essentials—carefully organized and prepared for distribution. These packages symbolized the collective effort and compassion of our club members, each item representing a small act of kindness capable of making a meaningful difference.

From the port, we boarded a sturdy ferry that would take us across the waters to Binuangan Island. The weathered yet reliable boat seemed to have weathered many journeys—much like the community it was about to serve. As we set off, the gentle rocking of the vessel, combined with the rhythmic splash of waves against its hull, created a calming rhythm that contrasted sharply with the hectic city life we had left behind. The panoramic view of lush, green islands and shimmering waters was mesmerizing, offering a glimpse into the untouched beauty of this remote community. Curious children watched from the shores, their faces filled with anticipation as the boat approached.

Binuangan Island, characterized by its lush greenery and quiet charm, presented a stark contrast to Manila’s urban chaos. Yet, it was not just the natural scenery that captivated us but also the resilience of its residents. The surrounding areas are often flooded during high tide—a persistent problem that the community has grown accustomed to over the years. These floods, caused by the high tide and the community’s proximity to the water, frequently disrupt daily routines, damage crops and homes, and make transportation and access to resources challenging. Despite these adversities, the community’s spirit remains unbroken, and their warm smiles greet us upon arrival.

The children of Binuangan Elementary School welcomed us with genuine warmth and bright smiles. Their eager eyes sparkled with curiosity and hope as they gathered around. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and cheerful chatter—testament to their resilient and joyful outlook despite the hardships they face daily. The humble school, a beacon of hope and education amidst the challenges, stood proudly as a testament to community strength.

Our team began distributing the school supplies—notebooks, pencils, erasers, and other educational materials—which elicited heartfelt reactions from the children.

Their eyes lit up with joy and gratitude as they received these small but vital tools, often taken for granted elsewhere. For these children, the supplies represented more than just school essentials; they symbolized opportunities to learn, grow, and dream beyond their environment’s limitations.

The multivitamins we brought were warmly received, a small gesture but vital to supporting their overall health and well-being—especially given the frequent flooding and exposure to the elements that could impact their nutrition.

Throughout our visit, the community’s resilience in the face of recurring flooding was evident. The residents have adapted by constructing elevated homes and developing various coping strategies to manage the high tides. Their daily lives revolve around these tides, yet their perseverance remains inspiring. This resilience underscores the community's unwavering spirit amid ongoing challenges.

Our mission extended beyond the distribution of supplies. It was about connecting, listening, and sharing a message of hope with a community that has learned to live with adversity. Witnessing the impact of small acts of kindness—how a simple notebook or a multivitamin could ignite a spark of optimism—reinforced our belief in the transformative power of compassion. The journey from Manila to Binuangan was not just physical; it was emotional and spiritual, reaffirming our collective commitment to community service.

As we prepared to depart Binuangan, a profound sense of fulfillment washed over us. We knew our visit had touched lives—perhaps more than we could see or measure. The smiles, gratitude, and hope shared with the children and their families served as a reminder of why we serve. Despite the ongoing struggles posed by frequent flooding and limited resources, the community’s resilient spirit shone brightly, inspiring us to continue our mission of hope.

This meaningful day was made possible through the joint efforts of the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Luntiang Maynila Prime, with dedicated sponsorship from the Regis Foundation. We are grateful for the leadership of UCP Rod Jason Senoron, UCP Eliona Loureyn Hernandez, and CP Elberto Regis, whose guidance made this project a success.

Leaving Binuangan, we carried with us not just memories but a renewed commitment to serve and support communities like theirs. Our day trip reaffirmed that even small acts of kindness, delivered with genuine love and respect, can create ripples of positive change. The community of Binuangan Island may face ongoing struggles, but their strength, resilience, and unwavering hope stand as a testament to the enduring power of community and compassion.

Submitted and written By: PP Arnil Senoron