Pagsibol sa Ulan: Growth Springs Forth After the Rain

From the belief that healing occurs when women are heard, supported, and empowered, last January 9 to 10, 2026, the Rotary Club of ManPaSan journeyed with 17 young women whose families have been deeply affected by the loss of a loved one from extrajudicial killings. “Pagsibol sa Ulan”, an overnight workshop for vulnerable teen girls affirmed the participants of their intrinsic self-worth and ability to rise above trauma. They were reminded of their agency to make choices towards a bright future - a profound reminder of how "growth springs forth after the rain.” 

Leading the organizing team were RC Manpasan’s own experienced facilitators - PP Iya Santiago, PP Shine Sim-Ruiz, and PP Jaymee Duran - who carefully designed the program and guided the participants through activities of reflection, dialogue, and skills-building. Talented guest resource persons were NLP Coach Con Lorenzo-Sonora from RC Ortigas Center, humanitarian advocates Jing Pura and Ruby Evangelista, and Kali practitioner and international model Joanna Pauline.  

Seminar topics empowered and addressed real issues: a) Human Rights and Dignity, b) Living with Trauma, c) Healthy vs. Toxic Relationships, d) Safety and Self-Defense Training, e) Emotional Resilience, and f) Envisioning an Empowered Future. The participants were encouraged, inspired, and uplifted by the enriching sessions.  The program concluded with a tree-planting activity, a quiet yet powerful symbol of renewal and growth. As young trees were placed into the soil, they mirrored the seeds of hope planted throughout the weekend—reminders that empowerment requires care and a better future is built together. 

This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Rotary District 3800, with special thanks to District Governor Gina Sanchez for partially funding the project. We are deeply grateful to our Honorary Member Milet Mendoza, co-founder and director of Supporting Initiatives in Building Orphans Lives (SIBOL), whose trust and collaboration allowed us to reach and accompany these young women.  We also thank Fr. Eduardo “Pon” Cariño Vasquez Jr., OMI who graciously opened the Oblate Missionary Center as our venue, provided warm hospitality, and documented the experience through photos and videos that captured moments of courage and connection.

Our sincere appreciation likewise goes to our partners Zonta Club of Metro Greenhills, Plan International Pilipinas, and Rotary Club of Ortigas Center for their invaluable support and solidarity.

Through Pagsibol sa Ulan, the Rotary Club of ManPaSan’s service, collaboration, and steadfast belief in human dignity once again affirms its commitment to lasting change by empowering young women and helping communities grow—one life, one act, and one seed at a time.

Written by: PP Shine Sim-Ruiz and GP Cecille Distor, Rotary Club of ManPaSan