Savor the Future: Equipping the Next Generation of Chefs

At Magdum National High School (MNHS), the aroma of freshly baked bread now carries with it the warmth of a community united by service. What began as a vision has become a culinary revolution—thanks to the enduring partnership between the Rotary Club of Tagum Golden LACES (RCTGL) and its 25-year sister club, the Rotary Club of Noda Central in Chiba, Japan, under the District Grant of Rotary District 2790.

RCTGL members during the turn-over of the donated kitchen equipment to Magdum National High. School represented by PSDS Ricardo C. Remoreras on October 4, 2024.

In a world where practical education opens doors to real opportunities, this initiative responded to a simple but profound need: to give students the tools—and confidence—to shape their own futures.

With the members of RC Noda Central, Chiba, Japan during their project visit on February 14, 2025 which coincided with the school’s Technology and Livelihood Education culminating activity. The activity was also graced by the Department of Education-Tagum City Division and Barangay Magdum Officials.

A Recipe for Change

Through their coordinated efforts, the clubs provided essential kitchen equipment to MNHS’s Technical and Livelihood Education (TLE) program, including:

• A 6-plate stainless oven

• A 9-cubic double-door refrigerator

• Two 3-burner gas ranges

• A 9-cubic chiller

• Three 750mL blenders

• A meat grinder

• A complete set of kitchen tools and baking supplies

These were more than just tools. They were stepping stones to skills, confidence, and hope.

According to MNHS School Head Felannie Caasi, who championed the request through their School Improvement Plan:“This equipment not only prepares learners to be skilled in baking, but also helps them develop entrepreneurial mindsets. Being skilled in this field gives them a socio-economic edge as they are introduced to the business world.”

The Gift of Mentorship

True to Rotary’s spirit of “Service Above Self,” the initiative also included something money can’t buy: mentorship. The Rotary Club of Tagum Golden LACES organized a free Bread and Pastry Training session, conducted by Past President Dr. Marites “Chef Mating” Domingo, a practicing anesthesiologist who passionately volunteers her time to teach culinary skills.

Photos taken during the baking session conducted by Past President “Chef Mating” Domingo held on March 13, 2025. Together with Chef Mating was DGN Arlene Adlawan and President Marieth Conde.

Donned in aprons and inspired by their hands-on experience, students learned the basics of baking—guided by someone who not only knows how to heal, but how to nourish future dreams.

“It is a privilege to train and teach you the fundamentals of baking,” Chef Mating shared. “These skills can support your future livelihood. It is truly a blessing that your generation is exposed to this type of learning so early.” 

More Than a Project—An Investment in Lives

For RCTGL President Maria Martha B. Conde, this project is a heartfelt investment.“This is more than an educational activity—it’s an investment in their future. These skills will serve them in life—during special occasions, career opportunities, or even as entrepreneurs. We hope they always remember Rotary as a partner in this journey.”

What made this project even more powerful was its sense of community. From the students and teachers, to the Rotarians and donors, each played a role in nurturing a culture of learning, self-discovery, and ambition.

Collaboration in Action

The success of this initiative hinged on the seamless collaboration between two Rotary Clubs, a supportive school administration, and a passionate volunteer. The partnership between RC Tagum Golden LACES and RC Noda Central has withstood the test of time, proving that international service is most impactful when rooted in friendship and shared purpose.

Together, they did not just donate equipment—they co-created a nurturing environment where young people are empowered to dream big and build real-world skills that matter.

MNHS TLE Coordinator Romelie Abarquez summed it up beautifully:“This justifies the adage, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ With proper equipment, students can now engage in hands-on learning and master their skills. This is transformative.” 

The Rotary Legacy in Education

Projects like this define what Rotary stands for: sustainable service, empowering the next generation, and transforming lives through partnerships. By addressing a community’s need and supporting it with both resources and time, Rotary proves that impact is strongest when rooted in love for the youth and the future they represent.

As the students of MNHS continue their culinary adventures, they carry with them more than recipes—they carry the confidence of being believed in, the skills to pursue their dreams, and the enduring reminder that they are not alone.

This is the magic of Rotary—where collaboration, compassion, and community converge, rising like bread in a warm oven, nourishing futures one child at a time.