SAFE: Securing A Future for Everyone

Every child deserves to walk into school feeling safe. Every teacher deserves to teach in an environment where learning is protected. Every parent deserves the peace of mind that their child is in a secure place. These simple hopes became the driving force behind Project SAFE, a collaborative initiative of the Rotary Club of Marikina West—led by High Impact President Katrina Frances C. Evasco and supported by Past President Rey John Fantone with Ann Nora, and PP Bojie Bernardino—together with the Rotaract Club of Marikina West, headed by President Jasmin De Guzman.

Held on 2026 August 9 at Marikina Elementary School in Sta. Elena, Marikina City, the project was built around Rotary’s Area of Focus on Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention. More than a donation drive, it was an investment in creating a learning environment where students, teachers, and school personnel can thrive with confidence and security.

Working closely with School Principal Sherly Ann D. Hernandez and Administrative Officer Carlo Guevarra, the Rotary Club of Marikina West spearheaded the project by donating two CCTV camera systems, a monitoring tablet, and two fire extinguishers. These essential resources strengthen the school’s security measures, improve emergency preparedness, and enhance the school’s ability to respond swiftly to unexpected situations.

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What makes this initiative truly different is its proactive approach. Instead of waiting for emergencies to happen, Project SAFE focuses on prevention. The CCTV systems help safeguard students, faculty, and school property, while the fire extinguishers ensure that the school is better equipped to respond during emergencies. The monitoring tablet allows school administrators to oversee the campus more efficiently, creating a safer environment where education can flourish without fear.

The collaboration between Rotarians and Rotaractors added another meaningful dimension to the project. While the Rotary Club provided resources that will protect the school community for years to come, the Rotaract Club of Marikina West inspired students and guests by sharing their My Rotary stories and introducing Rotary to individuals who had never experienced the organization before. Through these personal stories of service, young people were encouraged to see themselves not only as students but also as future leaders and volunteers capable of making a difference in their own communities.

The impact of Project SAFE extends far beyond the equipment turned over on that day. Every child who walks through the school gates benefits from a safer campus. Every teacher gains greater confidence knowing that additional measures are in place to protect their students. Every parent can find reassurance that the school is continuously strengthening its commitment to safety. These are the quiet yet powerful changes that build trust, foster peace, and create an environment where learning can truly thrive.

More importantly, the project leaves behind a legacy that will continue long after the turnover ceremony. The security systems will serve the school community every single day. The emergency equipment will remain ready when needed. The conversations sparked by the Rotaractors about service and leadership may inspire future Rotarians who will one day continue the cycle of giving back.

Project SAFE reminds us that peace is not only achieved through dialogue—it is built by creating spaces where people feel protected, respected, and valued. Through the united efforts of the Rotary Club of Marikina West and the Rotaract Club of Marikina West, Marikina Elementary School has gained more than security equipment. It has gained partners who believe that every child deserves a safe place to learn, every teacher deserves a secure place to inspire, and every community deserves the opportunity to grow in peace.

Because when we protect our schools, we protect our future.

Written by: President Katrina Frances C. Evasco, Rotary Club of Marikina West