RC Makati North Brings Hope Through Aytas Balik Eskwela Program

Rotary Club of Makati North
Sep 16
2 min read

In line with Rotary International’s Area of Focus on Basic Education and Literacy, the Rotary Club of Makati North (RCMN) successfully held the Aytas Balik Eskwela Program on August 16, 2025, in Botolan, Zambales. This meaningful outreach benefitted a total of 251 students, from day care to college, belonging to the Aeta community of LAKAS, a people deeply rooted in their cultural heritage yet determined to give their children access to quality education.

This initiative was led by President Tito Meneses together with Vice President TJ Meneses, IPP Boy & Ann Yoling Sevilla, PP Joe & Choi Reano, PP Archie & Tintin Reano, Sec. Chip Paasa and family & friends, Dir. Marzie Marzan, Rtn. Rocky Razon and Partners in Service – RCC & RAC Brgy. Sta. Cruz, and IAC Maximo Estrella SHS.

The program was made possible through the strong partnership of the Rotary Club of Makati North with Rotary Club of Alabang, Gardenia Bakeries Philippines, and United Robina Corporation (URC), whose generosity ensured that each student received complete school supplies, learning materials, and nutritious snacks.

Objectives of the Program:

Support Educational Access – Provide school necessities to underprivileged Ayta students to encourage regular attendance and active participation in school.
Promote Equal Learning Opportunities – Help bridge the gap between marginalized communities and mainstream education.
Inspire a Love for Learning – Motivate children to pursue education as a means to improve their quality of life and future prospects.
Strengthen Community Engagement – Foster stronger bonds between Rotary, local partners, and the indigenous community through meaningful interaction.

Benefits to the Ayta Community:

Reduced Financial Burden – Families with limited income are relieved from the costs of school materials, making it easier to send children to school.
Encouragement of Educational Continuity – With the right tools, students are more likely to stay in school and complete their education.
Improved Confidence and Morale – Receiving support boosts the children’s sense of self-worth and motivates them to excel academically.
Community Empowerment – The event showed the Aytas that they are not forgotten, and that their aspirations for education are supported by the wider community.

Beyond the distribution of supplies, the day was filled with smiles, stories, and heartfelt exchanges. RCMN members engaged with parents, teachers, and children, reinforcing the message that education is a shared responsibility and a key to breaking the cycle of poverty.

The Aytas Balik Eskwela Program stands as a testament to the power of partnership, compassion, and service. Through acts of kindness, RCMN and its partners reaffirm their commitment to building a future where no child is left behind—one school year, one student, and one community at a time.