Celebrating with the Nation and the Rotary World: An Art Exhibit Honoring National Filipino Values Month and The Rotary Foundation Month

Rotary International District 3800 Zone 6 Good Presidents proudly launched “Palette of Possibilities: Filipino Values Rediscovered,” an art exhibition celebrating both National Filipino Values Month and The Rotary Foundation Month.

The exhibit features 13 paintings inspired by the core Filipino values that shape our identity as a people and guide Filipino Rotarians in service across the world. It is a tribute to the belief that service is sustained by values—and values are strengthened through service.

The nation observes Filipino Values Month every November under Presidential Proclamation No. 479 (1994), a period dedicated to strengthening moral consciousness and honoring uniquely Filipino ideals. At the same time, Rotary International celebrates The Rotary Foundation Month, a global recognition of the programs that bring hope, literacy, health, peace, and opportunity to communities worldwide.This exhibit stands at the beautiful intersection of these two observances. Art Director, Curator, and Lead Artist Good President Angel Gonzales from RC Pasig East led the creation and curation of the 13 artworks, ensuring each one truthfully represented a Filipino value while intertwining Rotary’s 7 Areas of Focus.

Her direction brought forth an exhibition where art, culture, governance, and service aligned so organically that participants felt they were witnessing history take shape.Project Head Good President Roy Quejada from the Rotary Club of Pasig shared the journey of the initiative: “What began as a simple idea—magpinta lang tayo together—grew into something far more meaningful. This exhibit is not just a display of paintings; it is proof of what collaboration, fellowship, and shared purpose can create.”In September, the Pasig Good Presidents gathered for a painting workshop—no one expecting that the session would lead to a major museum exhibition. Guided by creativity and strengthened by camaraderie, each president stepped out of their comfort zone to contribute time, talent, and teamwork. Each artwork became a story of leadership, unity, and shared purpose—now immortalized through both canvases and 13 greeting cards developed from the paintings. These artworks and cards are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting community service projects of the participating Rotary clubs.

What made the exhibit remarkable was the strength of collaboration behind it. The Local Government of Pasig, Cultural Affairs and Tourism Office (CATO), the Pasig City Museum, and Rotary's District 3800 Zone 6 worked hand in hand, demonstrating how institutions can create powerful change when united.

This project was made possible through the support of Pasig City Mayor Hon. Vico Sotto, a proud Rotarian who granted the use of the Historical Pasig City Museum. His support affirmed that Rotary’s impact is amplified when working with government and cultural institutions. The exhibit was officially opened by District Governor Gina T. Sanchez and Ms. Anna Katrina San Mateo, OIC of the Pasig Museum, during a meaningful ribbon-cutting ceremony. The presence of leaders from District 3800 and CATO reflected the deep partnership between Rotary and the LGU—and the shared pride in uplifting Filipino heritage.

The exhibition features 13 paintings, each one representing a Filipino value such as bayanihan, paggalang, pag-asa, katatagan, pagkalinga, and more—values that continue to shape both families and communities.

During the program, the 13 Good Presidents offered reflections on the values represented by their assigned artworks. They also highlighted how these values appear in their service projects aligned with the Rotary Seven Areas of Focus.The discussions affirmed a powerful truth: Rotary service resonates deeply because it is grounded in the same values that define the Filipino spirit.

One of the most meaningful highlights was the launch of 13 greeting cards, each inspired by a single painting. The idea was envisioned by GP Blesee Tech of the Rotary Club of Mutya ng Pasig, who proposed creating a Rotary greeting card collection. These Rotary greeting cards—simple yet deeply meaningful—are designed to bring joy to both the giver and the receiver. At the same time, proceeds from their sale will directly support the humanitarian initiatives of the Rotary Clubs of Pasig City, turning every card into a gesture of kindness and community impact

To mark this occasion, the 13 Good Presidents wrote heartfelt letters using the cards and presented them to District Governor Gina Sanchez—symbolizing art transformed into service, and creativity into action.

Project Head GP Roy Quejada delivered his welcome remarks, expressing gratitude for the collaboration behind the exhibit and reminding attendees of the responsibility to uphold Filipino values—not only within Rotary but in every space where influence is possible.

This message was particularly meaningful as the event took place during The Rotary Foundation Month, a time when Rotarians honor programs that uplift lives across the globe.

What made this exhibit more than an artistic showcase was the collective spirit behind it:

• Rotary provided leadership and mission.

• The Local Government of Pasig provided support and trust.

• The Pasig Museum provided a venue for culture and reflection.

Together, these forces created an exhibition that will leave a lasting imprint on its audience. This was more than a double celebration.

More than a project. More than a fundraiser. It became a legacy—a reminder of who we are as Filipinos, what we value as Rotarians, and what we can achieve when we unite for a common purpose.

For all who witnessed its unfolding, one truth stood out: This is the kind of impact that lasts.

Written by: Rtn. Angel Gonzales, Rotary Club of Pasig East, Rotary International District 3800