Service Beyond Borders: RC Antipolo East Hosts Gyeonggi Vision for Community and Fellowship

“Service knows no borders when Rotarians come together with a shared purpose.”

The Rotary Club of Antipolo East (RCAE) successfully hosted an international service and fellowship engagement with the Rotary Club of Gyeonggi Vision, District 3750, Korea, from January 30 to February 1, 2026. The three-day visit combined community service initiatives and local sightseeing, reflecting Rotary’s shared commitment to humanitarian service, international understanding, and lasting fellowship.

The initiative was the result of nearly six months of careful planning and coordination, chaired by Charter President Larry Secreto, supported by President Maria Cristina Rodriguez and in close collaboration with AG Lee Bongsik, liaison to the Korean delegation headed by President Young Ran Kim. A total of 18 Rotarians and partners from Gyeonggi Vision worked alongside RCAE members in the implementation of the projects.

Day 1: Wheels of Hope

January 30, 2026

Service activities opened with the Wheels of Hope program in Barangay Palangoy, Binangonan, Rizal, where the children with disabilities received wheelchairs to improve mobility and independence. More than 100 residents also benefited from the distribution of school supplies, gift items, vitamins, and snacks. RCAE conveyed its appreciation to Barangay Chairman Cresencio Ojoy and his team for their support.

Day 2: Bakuna at Kalinga - Polio Vaccination, Dental Health Mission, Education, and Environmental Outreach Program (4-in-1) Project

January 31, 2026

Community outreach continued the following day through Bakuna at Kalinga in Sitio Sapinit, Barangay San Juan, Antipolo City. Thirty infants received polio vaccinations, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to the global effort to end polio. Approximately 350 residents benefited from dental health services and consultations, medicines, vitamins, school supplies, and gift packs generously provided by the visiting club, along with care kits for mothers and infants, reflecting Rotary’s focus on maternal and child health. To strengthen local healthcare access, 10 wheelchairs were donated - 5 for persons with disabilities and 5 entrusted to the barangay, together with a stretcher to support medical transport needs. A tree planting activity at Purok 3, Sitio Sapinit, complemented the day’s activities, underscoring the club’s shared stewardship and sustainable community development. RCAE likewise acknowledged Barangay Chairman JR Bolaños and his staff for their assistance.

A fellowship and recognition dinner marked the evening of January 31, highlighted by the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation and commemorative tokens symbolizing goodwill, gratitude, and partnership between the two clubs. The event was graced by District Governor Gina Sanchez, who delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of sustaining international fellowship through unity and Service Above Self. PDG Pope Solis and Spouse/Good President Vicky also joined the evening.

Day 3: Local Sightseeing Tour

February 1, 2026

The visit concluded on February 1 with a half-day tour of Antipolo’s well-known destinations, including Hinulugang Taktak and Pinto Art Museum. The cultural experience provided the delegates with a glimpse of the city’s natural beauty and artistic heritage before a warm send-off lunch.

The Rotary Club of Antipolo East extends its sincere gratitude to District Governor Gina Sanchez for her encouragement and steadfast support of this international initiative.

The club also thanks all the partners and sponsors who contributed to the success of these activities. The collaboration stands as a testament to Rotary’s ability to unite communities and cultures through meaningful service, exemplifying Service Above Self locally and globally.

Written by: Spouse Gina Secreto, Rotary Club of Antipolo East