PROJECT KASALO: KAlinga at SAya para kay LOlo at Lola

On October 18, 2025, the Rotary Club of Mandaluyong West (RCMW) launched its heart-driven project, KASALO (or Kalinga at Saya para kay Lolo at Lola) at the Anawim Lay Mission Foundation in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Made possible through a District Grant, the project aims to provide comfort, joy, and essential care to nearly 70 abandoned elderly residents by donating much-needed medical equipment and supplies to address the residents' profound needs, amounting to a personalized dedication from Good President Angeli Pinky Ancheta and her clubmates. This initiative was significantly amplified by dedicated partners-in-service, the Rotaract Club of Mandaluyong West, Corporate Partner Prestige Alliance MPC (ServPro), FLS Group, and the Philippine Bible Society. Their collective generosity added hygiene kits, bed pads, adult diapers, Bibles, a microwave, and more, immediately enhancing the residents' quality of life. “Pagmamano”, a Filipino gesture of respect to the elderly, was a deeply touching moment of Good President Angeli as she honored each of the Lolos and Lolas in this manner.

A succinctly heart-warming appreciation coming from the elderly by their collectively shouting, “Maraming Salamat Rotary”, underscored that the shared time was the greatest gift anyone can give. A serenade by District PWD and Elderly Service Project Chair PP Manny Aldaba, singing and dancing led by the club members and Rotaractors present sparked the special moment. The Lolos and Lolas, in turn, were inspired to share their talents, with Lola Stella, Lola Virgie, and Lola Cora singing, and Lola Beth dancing with a forever young-in-spirit with President Angeli. The equipment was immediately put to use—the ultimate validation of the project. Inspiringly, a teary-eyed President Angeli was moved to share an emotional message with the young generation.

“Mahalin natin ang ating mga magulang, lahat tayo tatanda rin, bigyan natin sila ng pagkakataon na makasama, maalagaan, at mapasaya”. Her message served as a powerful reminder of the dignity and respect every elderly person deserves, reinforcing the message from Anawim's staff, Mr. Angelo, that the Rotarians’ presence is a lifeline of genuine human connection, love, and warmth that the foundation and the elderly will forever be grateful for.

“Thank you, Good District Governor Gina Sanchez, Past President Pilar Lee, and the district team for the opportunity to make a difference to the lives of others. To God be all the glory”, added Pres. Angeli.

Project KASALO, with the club's other previous initiatives, Project BIBO (for Learners with Special Education Needs), as well as Project KAYSAYA (for Persons Deprived of Liberty) carried the conviction of their motto, “We Bring-In the Love to Bring-Out the Smiles,” and is in line with the series of service projects undertaken by the club in celebration of its Golden Anniversary with the theme, “Together, We Can!"

Submitted by: Rtn. Joel Reña, Rotary Club of Mandaluyong West, Rotary International District 3800