I LOVEbabo YOU, to the SINK and BACK!

Service becomes most meaningful when it responds to a real and urgent need. For the pupils of Aningway Sacatihan Elementary School Annex in Subic, Zambales, access to a proper handwashing facility was not merely a convenience — it was essential to their daily health and safety.

Guided by Rotary’s Area of Focus on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, the Rotary Club of Valenzuela Sunrise launched “I LOVEbabo YOU, to the SINK and BACK!” on 20 February 2026 — a project born from genuine love and concern for the children’s well-being. Inspired by the familiar phrase “I love you to the moon and back,” the title carries a playful yet meaningful message: that our care for children goes beyond words and into action.

The project provided a sturdy, child-friendly handwashing facility designed to make hygiene practices accessible and sustainable. Built at an appropriate height for young learners and equipped with multiple faucets, the structure allows several pupils to wash their hands comfortably and safely at the same time. With clean water flowing from every tap, students are encouraged to practice proper handwashing daily — a simple act that significantly reduces the spread of illness and nurtures lifelong habits of cleanliness and responsibility.

A vital component of this initiative is the strong retaining wall constructed behind the facility. Engineered to hold the soil firmly in place, it protects the classrooms above from erosion and the impact of heavy rains. In a community where weather conditions can challenge school infrastructure, this wall serves as a quiet but steadfast guardian — ensuring stability, safety, and uninterrupted learning.

This meaningful project was made possible in part through the generous support of District Grant funds — a testament to the power of Rotary collaboration beyond the club level. The district’s support strengthened the club’s capacity to implement a sustainable and impactful solution, demonstrating how shared resources within Rotary amplify service and expand reach. Through this partnership, local commitment and district backing came together to create lasting change for the school community.

More than concrete, faucets, and reinforced walls, “I LOVEbabo YOU, to the SINK and BACK!” represents Rotary in action. It is a promise fulfilled — that we care for children’s health, safeguard their learning spaces, and invest in their future.

Through unity, compassion, and the responsible stewardship of resources, the Rotary Club of Valenzuela Sunrise continues to live out Service Above Self — building not only facilities, but hope, dignity, and brighter tomorrows for the communities we serve.

Written by: Good President Rachel Gan, Rotary Club of Valenzuela Sunrise