RC Cebu Gloria Maris Donates Books to Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School to Inspire Young Learners

On Monday, April 28, 2025, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris held a significant book donation event at Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School, located in Basak San Nicolas, Cebu City. The turnover ceremony took place at the school’s Macopa Street campus and was led by Rotarian Floramay Gonzales, a passionate educator at the school and the chairperson of this impactful project.

The event was attended by several distinguished members of the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris, including Club President Myra Urbiztondo and her husband, Rotarian Alden Urbiztondo; Assistant Governor Christine Tan Ashby; Director of Public Image Dorothy Borces; as well as Rotarians Hazael Urbiztondo and Floramay Gonzales. Representing the school were Teachers Association President Marjun Campuso, School Principal Phamela A. Oliva, and Assistant Principal Devina Aleño, who graciously received the donated books on behalf of the institution.

This book donation reflects the Rotary Club’s steadfast commitment to enhancing educational resources in the community. The collection of books provided to Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School is intended to enrich the school’s library and classrooms, offering valuable materials that will support the school’s academic programs. The donated books cover a variety of subjects and genres, designed to stimulate curiosity, improve literacy, and foster a love of learning among the school’s learners.

Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris recognizes that access to quality educational materials is a vital component in building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. By partnering closely with the school’s leadership and teaching staff, the club aims to provide tools that will empower the school community and contribute to the overall development of its learners. The project is a testament to Rotary’s core value of service, demonstrating how collective efforts can bring meaningful change to local communities.

Rotarian Floramay Gonzales, who spearheaded the project, expressed her heartfelt dedication to the cause, emphasizing the importance of education as a key to unlocking future opportunities. Her unique perspective as both a teacher and a Rotary member allowed her to identify the school’s needs and mobilize resources effectively. The success of this project is a reflection of her leadership and the club’s shared vision of uplifting lives through education.

The turnover ceremony was made even more memorable thanks to the generous support of Fruitas, a valued partner of the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris. Fruitas provided refreshments and snacks during the event, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. This collaboration highlights the power of community partnerships in advancing shared goals and amplifying the impact of service projects.

The Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris has a long-standing tradition of community service, with a focus on education, health, and welfare initiatives throughout Cebu and beyond. This book donation aligns with the club’s mission to address educational disparities and provide opportunities for growth and development. By continuously engaging in projects like this, the club strengthens its role as a catalyst for positive change.

The importance of this donation extends beyond the books themselves. It symbolizes hope, opportunity, and the belief that every child deserves access to quality education. 

The materials will serve as a resource for teachers and students alike, enhancing the learning experience and encouraging intellectual curiosity. As the school integrates these new resources into its curriculum and library, it is expected to inspire greater academic achievement and personal growth.

Moreover, the event underscored the spirit of collaboration between the Rotary Club and the school community. The presence of key school officials such as Principal Phamela A. Oliva and Assistant Principal Devina Aleño demonstrated the school’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of the donation. Their partnership with Rotary ensures that the donated books will be properly utilized and maintained to serve future generations.

Looking ahead, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris remains dedicated to identifying and responding to the evolving needs of the communities it serves. The club’s members continue to work tirelessly to design and implement programs that address critical issues and improve quality of life. Education remains a top priority, as it is widely recognized as a cornerstone for sustainable development.

The book donation to Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School is a shining example of Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” in action. It reflects the club’s unwavering commitment to giving back and making a difference where it matters most. Through such initiatives, Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris continues to build bridges of hope, knowledge, and opportunity that will benefit countless individuals for years to come.

The successful turnover of books to Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School marks a milestone in the ongoing partnership between Rotary and the local education sector. It is a reminder that through dedication, teamwork, and compassion, communities can come together to create lasting positive impact. The Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris looks forward to continuing this journey of service, inspiring others to join in the mission of uplifting lives through education.

Submitted by: Dorothy Borces, Director of Public Image, Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris