DG Gina Sanchez on DZRH: Humility in Action, Impact in Motion—A Portrait of True Rotary Leadership

On November 5, 2025, the DZRH Public Service Hour became the stage for a profoundly meaningful and inspiring dialogue featuring District Governor Gina Sanchez of Rotary International District 3800 and Engr. Lerma Membrado, President of the Rotary Club of San Mateo Highlands. Hosted by seasoned broadcaster Ms. Mae Binauhan, the episode captured the heart of Rotary’s mission, highlighting district-wide initiatives, humanitarian programs, and the triumphant success of the recently concluded End Polio Concert 2025. 

It was an afternoon defined not only by information but also by sincerity, humility, and genuine service—a testament to Rotary’s enduring partnership with DZRH, which earlier received recognition through a Plaque of Appreciation awarded to Ms. Mae by RC San Mateo Highlands.

Even before the on-air discussion began, Governor Gina Sanchez had already made a lasting impression. Unlike many leaders who arrive accompanied by staff, protocol officers, or ceremonial escorts, she stepped into the DZRH studio quietly and unassumingly—alone. Her arrival, free of fanfare or formality, became a powerful statement in itself. It reflected a leader who does not allow titles to define her, a woman grounded in humility, grace, and genuine service. 

Her simplicity did not diminish her stature; instead, it amplified her authenticity and the deep respect she commands. Inside the studio, she greeted everyone warmly—from technicians to producers—showing the same level of respect to all. This simple yet striking gesture demonstrated what kind of leader she truly is: accessible, compassionate, and unwaveringly dedicated. Her down-to-earth presence revealed a leadership style defined not by prestige, but by purpose—a quiet strength rooted in service, commitment, and heart.

Once the interview began, Governor Sanchez delved into the vast and dynamic reach of Rotary District 3800, one of the largest districts in the Philippines. Spanning Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, San Mateo, Rodriguez, the entire Province of Rizal, San Juan, Pasig, and Mandaluyong, the district’s footprint reflects a rich mix of urban centers, developing communities, and culturally diverse sectors. With 109 Rotary clubs and more than 3,000 Rotarians, the district is a powerhouse of volunteers united by the mission of service.

DG Sanchez emphasized the significance of her Official Governor’s Visits (OGVs)—not merely as ceremonial obligations but as opportunities to personally connect with clubs, understand their challenges, ignite their motivation, and realign them with Rotary’s seven Areas of Focus. She spoke passionately about her leadership vision for the Rotary Year: “No club will be left behind. No one will be left behind.” This guiding principle, anchored in the year’s international theme Unite for Good, reflects her belief that effective service must embrace everyone—clubs, communities, partners, and especially those who are often unheard and underserved.

One of the hallmark initiatives she proudly described was Goodness for Kids, the district’s signature project held last July 1–2. The program stood as a vibrant celebration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)—values that DG Sanchez deeply upholds. It brought together various partners including government agencies like the Department of Education, Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, the Tricycle Federation of Valenzuela, the San Juan Chamber of Commerce, and groups serving children with special needs. 

She emphasized that this project was not just an activity, but a statement: that Rotary welcomes every sector, every culture, every background. It reaffirmed that service should never be exclusive, and that all children, regardless of circumstance, deserve equal access to joy, learning, and opportunity.

A major highlight celebrated during the guesting was the overwhelming success of the End Polio Concert 2025, a large-scale fundraising event held last November 8 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. The arena roared with life as hundreds of Rotarians, families, youth groups, and supporters gathered to champion Rotary’s historic mission of eradicating polio worldwide. The crowd enjoyed electrifying performances from celebrated artists Sponge Cola, The Dawn, and Karylle, all of whom delivered powerful sets that went beyond their hit songs. Their extended performances energized the audience and strengthened the event’s advocacy message. Comedian Alex Calleja delivered a brilliantly humorous set that brought the entire arena to laughter and set the tone for an unforgettable night. 

One of the most symbolic moments came during the Unite For Good segment, where artists and Rotarians stood together onstage, raising awareness for the global fight against polio. The presence of Past Governor Marilou Co, Zone 10A Polio Coordinator, added prestige and strengthened the commitment represented that evening. The event radiated unity, purpose, and shared hope; and with all net proceeds donated to the PolioPlus Fund, the concert became not only an entertainment spectacle but a life-changing global contribution. 

Governor Sanchez reiterated how crucial this mission remains. She shared compelling global data: more than 3 billion children have been vaccinated through Rotary and partners; over $2.1 billion has been raised toward the global target of $2.6 billion; and only Afghanistan and Pakistan remain polio-endemic. Yet the threat remains real—without continued eradication efforts, over 200,000 children could face paralysis annually. The district’s strong support, symbolized through the concert’s success, contributes meaningfully to Rotary’s unwavering promise: a world free from polio.

The interview also highlighted one of RC San Mateo Highlands’ most meaningful humanitarian initiatives. Engr. Lerma Membrado shared the progress of their Global Grant Project aimed at building a complete water system and sanitation facilities for an Indigenous People community in Baco, Oriental Mindoro. 

The club’s earlier assessments revealed urgent needs: a single water source serving 28 families (over 150 individuals), the absence of public toilets and washing facilities, frequent waterborne illnesses, and the heartbreaking statistic that 3–5 children die each year due to unsafe water and preventable diseases. The project aims to bring clean and sustainable water access, proper sanitation, improved health conditions, and long-term resilience to the community. It stands as a powerful example of Rotary’s commitment to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and a testament to how one club can create global impact.

The November 5 DZRH guesting ultimately encapsulated the essence of Rotary leadership as embodied by District Governor Gina Sanchez—humble yet strong, grounded yet visionary, simple in presence yet monumental in impact. Her quiet arrival, her sincerity in every answer, and her unwavering passion for service moved everyone inside the studio and all who tuned in. Under her inspiring leadership and guided by the call to Unite for Good, District 3800 continues to advance transformative programs, strengthen partnerships, and uplift communities while upholding Rotary’s timeless and enduring motto: Service Above Self.

Written by: GP Lerma Membrado, Rotary Club of San Mateo Highlands