Highland Dreams, Lasting Change: A Legacy of Service and Community Empowerment in Sagada

Nestled among the majestic mountains of Sagada, where pine forests meet the clouds and traditions remain deeply rooted, a Rotary service project became more than a mission of giving—it became a celebration of partnership, learning, and lasting impact.

Led by the Rotary Club of Marikina West in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Sagada, the initiative embraced the belief that meaningful service is not only about responding to immediate needs but also about empowering communities to build a stronger future.

One of the project’s most meaningful moments happened away from the distribution sites. Through an engaging MyRotary storytelling session led by Past President Radian Fantone, local leaders, volunteers, teachers, healthcare workers, and community members were introduced to Rotary’s mission, values, and the power of service above self. For many non-Rotarians in attendance, it was their first opportunity to hear authentic stories of Rotary’s humanitarian work around the world, inspiring conversations about volunteerism, community leadership, and the difference that ordinary people can make when they work together for a common purpose.

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Inside the classrooms of Tetepan Elementary School and Ankileng Elementary School, another transformation quietly unfolded. Children who once attended classes while sitting on floors or sharing limited furniture were welcomed with 100 new study tables, giving them comfortable spaces where they could learn with dignity. Teachers observed renewed enthusiasm among their students, while the children proudly settled into learning environments they could finally call their own.

The project also recognized that in a mountain municipality like Sagada, communication can be just as essential as infrastructure. To strengthen disaster preparedness and everyday coordination, 40 walkie-talkies were distributed across the municipality’s barangays. These communication tools now help local officials, responders, and tourism personnel coordinate more efficiently during emergencies, guide visitors safely through challenging terrain, and remain connected even in areas where mobile phone signals are unreliable.

Supporting families remained at the heart of the initiative. Two hundred families received baby care essentials, including pillows, blankets, burp cloths, and newborn diapers. During Sagada’s cool mountain evenings, these simple yet thoughtful items brought warmth, comfort, and reassurance to mothers caring for their infants. More than material assistance, the donations reflected Rotary’s commitment to nurturing the well-being of both mothers and children.

Working closely with the Local Government Unit under the leadership of Mayor Felicito O. Dula, the project also strengthened preventive healthcare by providing oral polio vaccinations and pediatric medical services. These efforts helped protect children from preventable diseases while reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to keeping every child healthy and every family informed about the importance of early healthcare.

Tourism, one of Sagada’s primary sources of livelihood, also received meaningful support. The municipality’s famous caves, mountains, and cultural attractions welcome thousands of visitors each year, making safety a shared responsibility. To help safeguard both residents and tourists, the project donated 50 hard hats and 50 first aid kits to support cave guides, tourism workers, and emergency responders. Together with the enhanced communication system, these resources help ensure faster response and safer experiences throughout Sagada’s tourism sites.

Looking toward the future, the planned construction of a public toilet facility featuring one urinal, two toilet bowls, one basin, and a faucet near the Rotary Marker and Welcome Arch represents another investment in community pride. More than an infrastructure project, it reflects respect for residents and visitors alike by promoting cleanliness, convenience, and responsible tourism.

Perhaps the greatest achievement of “Highland Dreams, Lasting Change” cannot be measured by the number of study tables, walkie-talkies, medical services, or donated supplies. Its true success lies in the relationships built between Rotary and the people of Sagada, in the exchange of stories that inspired future community leaders, and in the shared belief that service becomes most meaningful when it is rooted in collaboration.

Long after the project concludes, its legacy will continue in classrooms where children learn with confidence, in healthier families, in safer communities, in visitors who experience Sagada with greater peace of mind, and in the many non-Rotarians who, through the MyRotary stories shared by Past President Rey John Fantone, discovered that lasting change begins with people willing to serve others.

Because the strongest communities are built not only through generosity, but through shared purpose, enduring partnerships, and the belief that every act of service has the power to inspire another.

Accompanying President Katrina and Past President Radian at the project venue were Immediate Past President Kevin Micole Delfino and Ms. Krizelle Megu, Past President Johann Erickson Evasco, and Spouse Nora Fantone.

Services and Donated Items:

- Polio vaccination for 30 children

- Pillow and blankets - 30 sets

- First aid kits and Hard hats - 50 sets

- Fire extinguishers - 5 pieces

- Study tables - 100 pieces

- Handheld communication devices

- 4 units for all barangays

Written by: President Katrina Frances C. Evasco, Rotary Club of Marikina West