RC Zamboanga City Relaunches Rotary Exchange Program, Welcomes Belgian Rotex Delegate

The Rotary Club of Zamboanga City (RCZC) proudly relaunched its Rotary Youth Exchange Program with the arrival of Ms. Merel Filleul, a Rotex delegate from Belgium. As part of the exchange, Mr. Carl To from Zamboanga has been sent to Belgium to pursue his studies for one year. Our Rotex were also inducted as honorary members of the Interactors Club of Zamboanga City and actively participated during the culmination of Buwan ng Wika. Additionally, Carl To was warmly welcomed upon his arrival in Belgium.

Ms. Filleul is currently enrolled at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School, where she will immerse herself in Philippine education and culture for the duration of her stay. Meanwhile, Mr. To continues his academic journey at COLLEGE du CHRIST-ROI (Christ the King College) in Belgium, gaining firsthand exposure to European culture and perspectives.

The Rotary Youth Exchange Program is designed not only to broaden the academic horizons of participating students but also to foster cultural understanding and global citizenship. By living and studying in environments vastly different from their own, participants develop resilience, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation of diversity.

While the program has faced challenges in recent years, particularly due to restrictive government regulations in Mindanao, RCZC—together with the support of Rotary International District 3850 officers, club members, and Rotex coordinator PDG Oliver Ong—has successfully revived the initiative and ensured a meaningful exchange for both delegates.

Enjoy Zamboanga City!