Breaking New Ground: District 3800 Hosts its First Service Project Expo

On August 24, 2025, Rotary District (RD) 3800 etched a new milestone in its history with the triumphant launch of its inaugural Service Project Expo at Mega Trade Hall 2, SM Megamall, 

Mandaluyong City. This groundbreaking event, championed by District Governor (DG) Gina T. Sanchez and District Service Projects Chair (DSPC) Noel Cuico, became a spectacular platform to highlight the district’s unified commitment and transformative efforts across 

Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus.

The Expo brought together an estimated 1,350 registered Rotarians and guests, marking it as one of the most remarkable gatherings in the district’s history — a true celebration of service and fellowship. The event showcased 127 creatively designed booths representing 85 participating clubs, each presenting innovative and impactful projects aligned with Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus. Every booth stood as a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment of Rotarians to address society’s most urgent needs and create lasting change.

The event opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 AM, led by DG Sanchez and The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Trustee Dennis Shore, joined by other distinguished dignitaries. Following the ceremony, guests were welcomed into a vibrant exhibition hall brimming with creative, interactive booths that brought to life the diverse service initiatives of Rotary clubs across District 3800. Each display embodied Rotary’s enduring commitment to its guiding principle of “Service Above Self.”

At 11:00 AM, the program proper commenced in the main hall. Following the call to order, 

District Governor Nominee (DGN) Sherrylou Khosiking led a heartfelt invocation, setting a solemn and reflective tone for the celebration of service. This was followed by the singing of the Australian and Philippine National Anthems and a spirited rendition of the Rotary Hymn, filling the hall with unity and pride.

Subsequently, District Secretary Carla Dejeres warmly acknowledged the distinguished guests, including TRF Trustee Shore, End Polio Now Coordinator (EPNC) Marilou Co, Regional Membership Coordinator (RMC) Anna Louisa Bumagat, Regional Public Image Coordinator (RPIC) Mildred Vitangcol, Assistant RPICs Rhodora Gonzalez and Jerry Ang, District Governor Veronica Yu of District 3780 and Spouse Past District Governor (PDG) Johnny Gaw Yu, PDGs 

Florian Enriquez and Milo Lucenario as well as District Governor-Elect (DGE) Rhian Virrey and 

DGN Lotlot Alvarez, along with several past and future District Governors and their lovely 

spouses, district officers, and local government officials.

DSPC Cuico officially welcomed all guests and attendees, extending heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. In his remarks, he stressed that the 

Expo is more than just a showcase of creativity, dedication, and compassion — it is a 

celebration of the unifying spirit of service that binds every Rotarian. He highlighted that each booth represents impactful projects that have touched lives and transformed communities, serving as living proof of Rotarians’ unwavering commitment to “Service Above Self.”  He further emphasized that the Expo provides a unique opportunity to share these inspiring stories not only with fellow Rotarians but also with the public, fostering a deeper understanding of what Rotary truly stands for.

The program continued with inspiring congratulatory messages from EPNC Co, RMC 

Bumagat, and RPIC Vitangcol, each commending District 3800 for its unwavering dedication to advancing Rotary’s mission through the Service Project Expo. RPIC Vitangcol took the opportunity to extend her congratulations once more, this time highlighting the district’s recent triumph at the Zone 10A Public Image Awards Night held the evening before at The Manila Hotel. She proudly announced that seven clubs from RD 3800 emerged as big winners, dominating multiple categories, to wit: 

• RC Marikina West – Best Public Image Campaign (1st Place), Best Online Media (1st Place), Best Facebook Page (2nd Place);

• RC San Juan Del Monte – Best Print Media (1st Place), Best People of Action Photo (2nd Place), Best Online Media (3rd Place);

• RC San Mateo Highlands – Best Public Image Campaign (2nd Place), Best People of Action Photo (2nd Place);

• RC Upper East Side Antipolo – Best Outdoor Media (1st Place), Best Rotary Marker (2nd Place);

• RC Taytay Renaissance – Best Broadcast Media (1st Place), Best Outdoor Media (2nd Place);

• RC Marikina North – Best Facebook Page (3rd Place); and

• RC Angono – Best Print Media (3rd Place)

The announcement filled the hall with joy, pride, and inspiration, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience and reinforcing the district’s reputation for excellence and innovation in public image efforts.

Then, TRF Trustee Shore delivered his Inspirational Message, reminding everyone of the enduring power of Rotary to transform lives.   He expressed admiration for the inspiring variety of booths and the dedication shown by every participating club in the Expo which reflects strength, unity and innovation.

In her heartfelt message, DG Sanchez emphasized the historic nature of the event, underscoring that the heart of the Expo is not just about displaying projects, but honoring the beneficiaries and communities at the center of Rotary’s mission. “When people with good hearts come together, amazing things happen. This Expo stands as proof of that truth. It is more than an exhibition of projects; it is a celebration of compassion, of collaboration, and of what it truly means to unite for good!”, she stressed.   

DG Sanchez reminded everyone that behind every booth are stories of children gaining education, families finding hope, and communities becoming healthier and stronger because Rotarians acted. Looking forward, she called on all attendees to draw inspiration, build partnerships, and plant new seeds of service. Echoing this year’s theme “Unite for Good”, she concluded: “Rotary shows us that unity is powerful. When clubs work together, when we join hands with partners and communities, our reach extends far beyond what any of us could achieve alone.”

During the lunch break, dignitaries and guests enjoyed a sumptuous meal at the VIP Lounge, where warm conversations and genuine fellowship flourished. After this delightful interlude, the program resumed with Club and Exhibitor Demonstrations, a segment that sparked both interest and inspiration. In this session, RC Pasig showcased its Emergency Hotline Response Program, RC Upper East Side Antipolo presented the innovative “Roots to Riches” Grape Growing Workshop, and RC Rizal Premier demonstrated their impactful Water Filtration System Project. These live presentations not only highlighted best practices but also motivated other clubs to replicate and adapt these successful initiatives within their own communities, amplifying Rotary’s impact even further.

The highlight of the afternoon was the much-awaited announcement of winners for the Best Booth Awards, recognizing creativity, impact, and presentation:  The following were

adjudged winners: 

Single Booth Category

• RC Rizal Mideast – ₱10,000

• RC Suburban East Rizal – ₱10,000

• RC Passport One Marikina – ₱10,000

Medium Booth Category

• RC San Juan Del Monte – ₱10,000

• RC Antipolo East – ₱10,000

• RC San Mateo – ₱10,000

Large Booth Category

• 4th Place – RC Malabon – ₱10,000

• 3rd Place – RC Upper Eastside Antipolo – ₱10,000

• 2nd Place – RC Pasig South – ₱15,000

• 1st Place – RC San Juan Supreme – ₱25,000

The program drew to a close with heartfelt Closing Remarks from DG Sanchez who reaffirmed the district’s thrust that no club - big or small - will be left behind. Then, the atmosphere transformed into one of pure celebration. The hall became livelier with the beats of a live band and vibrant dancing, infusing the event with energy, joy, and camaraderie. Adding to the success of the day, PP Ophel Bello and SAG Roland Cardinoza skillfully hosted the program, their dynamic presence ensured that each moment remained engaging and lively from start to finish.

The unprecedented success of District 3800’s pioneering Service Project Expo stands as a shining testament to the power of vision, leadership, and collective action. This landmark

event was brought to life through the inspiring leadership of DG Gina Sanchez, the steadfast commitment of the District Service Projects Committee led by DSPC Noel Cuico, and the relentless support of district officers, club presidents, and volunteers who worked with passion and purpose. More than an exhibition, it was a living showcase of Rotary’s promise to create lasting, meaningful change. By celebrating innovation, sharing best practices, and strengthening bonds of collaboration, this historic Expo sent a clear and powerful message: 

when Rotarians unite, we do not just imagine a better world—we build it, together.

Written by: Charter President Prisco S. Rivera, Jr, Rotary Club of San Mateo Highlands