Handog Pag-Asa

For many years, the Rotary Club of Metro East Caloocan has remained steadfast in its commitment to serve communities in need through meaningful outreach and humanitarian initiatives. Guided by the Rotary spirit of service above self, the Club has consistently reached out to indigent families, children, and vulnerable sectors of society, extending assistance through programs that promote compassion, dignity, and hope. Inspired by this mission, the Club embraced the outreach theme “Handog Pag-asa,” a guiding principle that reflects its dedication to bringing hope and positive change to the lives of those it serves.

A significant milestone in strengthening the Club’s outreach efforts came through its partnership with World Gift Japan, a non-government organization that sends donated goods to support disadvantaged communities, particularly during times of disaster. Through this collaboration, the Club’s outreach initiatives became more structured and sustainable, eventually developing into regular humanitarian programs that reach communities both within and beyond Metro Manila.

The connection between the Rotary Club of Metro East Caloocan and World Gift Japan began when Past President Bernard Bernabe joined the Club during the term of All Star President Henry Doria. PP Bernard is a close friend of former Barangay 5 Chairman Ronaldo Fernando, who in turn is acquainted with Rosalie Banta, an interpreter of Japanese national Osamu Kawano, the former representative and counterpart of World Gift Japan in the Philippines. Through this network of friendships and shared commitment to service, a partnership was formed that would later grow into a meaningful collaboration dedicated to helping those in need.

One of the earliest major outreach activities conducted through this partnership was the “Metro East Caloocan Multi–Early Christmas 8-in-1 Project,” held on November 20, 2016 at Mother Theresa Spinelli Treasure House in Tagaytay City. With the theme “Paskong Kay Aga, Mga Bata’y Sasaya” (An Early Christmas, Children Rejoice), the activity brought joy and assistance to the orphans under the institution’s care. Members of the Club organized a feeding program and distributed a variety of donated items including rice, diapers, towels, shampoo,  cotton buds, Milo, milk, snacks, candies, stuffed toys, and school supplies. The event also included demonstrations on proper toothbrushing and handwashing to promote hygiene and health awareness among the children.

It was also during this time that the Club met Masayuki Okada, who later became the current representative of World Gift Philippines after the passing of Mr. Kawano in 2017. In the early years of coordination with Mr. Okada, the donated balikbayan boxes were delivered to his residence in Silang, Cavite, where members of the Club personally collected them for distribution. Through years of consistent and responsible service, the Club gradually earned the trust and confidence of its partners. Eventually, the shipments were delivered directly to the office of First Class President Manuel Tan, making the distribution process more efficient and further strengthening the partnership.

Among the six Rotary Clubs across the country that partnered with World Gift Japan, the Rotary Club of Metro East Caloocan eventually became the only club entrusted to continue receiving direct shipments. This recognition stands as a testament to the Club’s integrity, reliability, and unwavering dedication to ensuring that every donation reaches those who need it the most.

Through this partnership, countless items have been distributed to communities across different regions. These include toys and stuffed toys, towels, clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, school bags, backpacks, sanitary napkins, adult and baby diapers, baby carriers, feeding bottles, rubber shoes, notebooks, pencils, crayons, coloring pencils, and other essential goods. These donations have reached beneficiaries not only within Metro Manila but also in communities as far as Baguio City, Zambales, Tarlac, Cavite, and Batangas.

As part of its commitment to this partnership, the Club conducts regular outreach programs to continue receiving donations from World Gift Japan. Beyond these scheduled activities, the Club also responds to emergency situations, such as fire incidents in nearby barangays, ensuring that affected families receive immediate assistance during times of crisis.

Through every outreach activity and every act of generosity, the Club reaffirms its commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves. More than the distribution of donated goods, the partnership with World Gift Japan represents a lasting legacy of service—one built on trust, compassion, and a shared mission to uplift communities. As the Club moves forward, it carries with it the enduring belief that even the simplest acts of kindness can inspire hope, transform lives, and create a ripple of positive change that will continue to benefit future generations.

Written by: PP Manny Tan, Rotary Club of Metro East Caloocan