PALAROTARY 2026: A Celebration of Unity, Service, and Success

What began with countless meetings, sleepless nights, careful planning, and tireless preparation finally blossomed into a remarkable celebration of unity, sportsmanship, and service. On January 25, 2026, PALAROTARY District 3800 stood not merely as a sporting event, but as a powerful testament to teamwork, dedication, and the true spirit of Service Above Self.

Hosted and led by the Rotary Club of Metro East Taytay (RCMET), this historic gathering became a resounding success through the collective efforts of Rotarians who believed in the vision and worked relentlessly to bring it to life. Every sacrifice, every challenge, and every moment of exhaustion proved worthwhile—sulit na sulit—as the entire District came together in one unforgettable celebration.

A Meaningful and Well-Organized Program

PALAROTARY 2026 officially opened with a smooth and innovative registration process powered by Dynamic Global Soft Inc., featuring high-tech touchscreen systems and e-signature technology for both online and on-site participants. This modern system ensured efficiency, accuracy, and convenience for all attendees.

The celebration began with a solemn Sunday Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Dari Dioquino, grounding the event in faith, gratitude, and unity. This was followed by the vibrant Parade per Zone, where each zone proudly marched with their respective color flags, symbolizing camaraderie and healthy competition.

A strong sense of patriotism filled the venue during the singing of the National Anthem, leading to the meaningful Torch Relay and Lighting of the Torch. This symbolic ceremony was led by the Past, Present, and Future District Governors, together with RCMET representative GP Donato G. Santiago and Palarotary Chair PP Albert Delloro, representing the continuity of leadership and service in Rotary. The ceremony reached its peak as District Governor Gina Sanchez finally ignited the torch, signifying unity, passion, and the enduring commitment of District 3800 to Service Above Self.

Leadership in Action: The Presidents’ Run

One of the most inspiring moments of PALAROTARY 2026 was the District 3800 Presidents’ Run, led by District Governor Gina Sanchez together with RCMET President GP Donato G. Santiago, and joined by presidents from all eight zones. With more than 100 participants, this activity symbolized unity, wellness, and leadership through action.

Opening Ceremonies and Messages

The formal program commenced with the Opening Remarks by GP Donato G. Santiago, followed by an inspiring message from District Governor Gina Sanchez, encouraging everyone to live out the Rotary value of Service Above Self.

The Oath of Sportsmanship, administered by PP Albert Delloro, Chairman of Palarotary, reminded participants of fairness, respect, and integrity in competition. This was followed by the Declaration of the Opening of the Games by Governor Gina Sanchez, officially marking the start of the sporting events.

Exciting Competition and Games

At exactly 9:00 AM, the Games Proper began, featuring a wide range of competitions that showcased talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship, including athletics, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, pickleball, Mobile Legends, badminton (mixed and men’s), the Muse Competition, and the Cheering Competition.

Fellowship, Fun, and Festivities

Midday fellowship was highlighted by a generous Boodle Fight Lunch, where participants shared and enjoyed a wide variety of delicious dishes. The event also featured food booths offering additional treats and refreshments, as well as a playground area for children, ensuring that families could enjoy the day together. This was further complemented by the Free Lechon per Zone, generously sponsored by RCMET, bringing joy and satisfaction to everyone.

An unexpected yet memorable highlight was the Inter-Zone Singing Contest, which, although not part of the official program, became a crowd favorite as all zones enthusiastically participated.

The Muse and Cheering Competitions filled the venue with energy, loud cheers, and colorful performances, while the Fun Games—including relays, patintero, and tug-of-war—brought laughter and excitement as everyone competed with passion and camaraderie.

Technology and Raffle: A Modern Touch

To cap off the celebration, participants were treated to exciting raffle draws through a high-tech digital roulette system provided by Dynamic Global Soft Inc., headed by Vice President Ms. Sheryl Santos. This innovative system added thrill and transparency to the raffle activities.

Awarding and Closing

PALAROTARY 2026 concluded at 5:00 PM with the Awarding and Closing Ceremonies, held in high spirits as everyone wanted more. Zone 4 was declared the Overall Champion, followed by Zone 3 as 1st Runner-Up and Zone 5 as 2nd Runner-Up. The awarding reflected the hard work, discipline, and sportsmanship displayed throughout the day, leaving participants inspired and eager for future events.

With 101 registered clubs and more than 1,100 active Rotarians along with their spouses/partners, children, Rotaractors, and Interactors in attendance, PALAROTARY 2026 truly reflected the strength, unity, and vibrancy of District 3800.

Gratitude and Appreciation

The success of PALAROTARY 2026 was made possible through the steadfast leadership of District Governor Gina Sanchez and the unwavering support of the District Officers.

Special recognition is extended to the dedicated host team:

• GP Donato G. Santiago – RCMET President

• PP Albert Delloro – Palarotary Chairman

• DDS Eric Santos & SAG Marilyn Santos – District Officers

• All Committee Heads and Members

Heartfelt appreciation is also extended to the hardworking RCMET members and Rotaractors who worked tirelessly behind the scenes—from preparation to execution—embodying the true spirit of Rotary service.

Sincere thanks are likewise given to our valued partners and supporters:

• Dynamic Global Soft Inc.

• RCC Community Emergency Response Volunteer, Inc.

• RCC Kalayaan Philippines Inc. – Rizal Chapter

• Philippine Red Cross – Rizal Chapter

• Rizal Sports Organization of the Philippines

• Marikina Sports Center

• Marg Studio – Souvenir Photos

We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors and donors whose financial and in-kind contributions made this event possible.

A Legacy of Unity and Service

True to the heart of RCMET, PALAROTARY 2026 was designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, creating joyful memories for Rotarians and their families through fun activities and meaningful fellowship.

To everyone who joined, supported, volunteered, donated, and prayed for this event—maraming maraming salamat po. This success belongs to all of us.

PALAROTARY 2026 reaffirmed that when Rotarians unite with one purpose and one heart for service, nothing is impossible. Together, District 3800 once again demonstrated the power of unity, compassion, and collective action in building a better and brighter future.

Written by: Good President Donato G. Santiago, Rotary Club of Metro East Taytay