The Second Eye of Daruma: A Vision Fulfilled in Fukaya

In a celebration of friendship, culture, and service beyond borders, the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center (RCOC) reached a historic milestone with its first international joint project, a Book Donation Drive for the students of Sakuragaoka Elementary School in Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, held on October 20, 2025.

A City of Warmth and Heritage

Located in northern Saitama, Fukaya City is known for its red-brick buildings and as the birthplace of Eiichi Shibusawa, the “Father of Japanese Capitalism.” Its rich history, craftsmanship, and strong sense of community mirror Rotary’s own ideals of service and integrity.

From Ortigas to Fukaya: Friendship in Motion

The partnership between RCOC and the Rotary Club of Fukaya North began with a shared vision of global service. While most international Rotary collaborations take place in the Philippines, this time, RCOC brought its mission abroad—strengthening ties and understanding through fellowship and cultural exchange.

The journey began in Tokyo on October 17, with a visit to the historic Sensō-ji Temple and dinner at YamayaSeimensho, owned by Fukaya North’s President-Elect Daisuke Yamakawa.

On October 18, the delegation explored the NagatoroRiver by boat, visited Hodosan Shrine, and enjoyed local cuisine at Washoku Tateno. A warm Welcome Party followed at Primo Cheese Café, owned by member Hiroshi Hirai, reflecting the genuine hospitality of Fukaya North Rotarians.

The Daruma and the Dream

The visit’s emotional centerpiece came on the evening of October 19, when both clubs sealed their Sister Club Agreement in a heartfelt ceremony at Iroha-no-I, also owned by Rotarian Yamakawa. Together, they painted the second eye of the Daruma doll, symbolizing the fulfillment of a shared dream conceived a year earlier.

In Japanese tradition, one eye of a Daruma is painted when setting a goal, and the second when that goal is achieved. For both clubs, this act represented not just the completion of a promise but the beginning of a lasting Rotary bond.

That same day, members experienced the natural beauty of Mt. Tanigawadake, a cable car ride through the mountains, and the unique cultural tradition of communal hot spring bathing at Takaragawa Sanso Onsen—a moment of unity and mutual respect that deepened friendships.

Books Beyond Borders

On October 20, the journey culminated in the heart of Rotary’s purpose: the Book Donation Drive for the students of Sakuragaoka Elementary School.

Presidents Myron Montefalcon and Kouji Sakata personally brought the donation fund raised by both clubs to purchase brand-new books for the school’s library and classrooms. The project, anchored on Rotary’s Area of Focus on Basic Education and Literacy, symbolizes how two clubs from different nations can unite to nurture the same dream: empowering children through learning.

The visit to Sakuragaoka Elementary School also offered RCOC members a glimpse into Japan’s public education system—a model of discipline, respect, and holistic learning. Witnessing the orderly routines, cleanliness, and the students’ polite curiosity gave the visiting Rotarians a deeper appreciation for Japan’s culture of lifelong education.

During the donation ceremony, the students’ bright smiles and the heartfelt words of thanks from school officials created a moving moment that captured the essence of Rotary service. For the visiting Rotarians, seeing the joy and gratitude firsthand was profoundly fulfilling—a reminder that giving is not measured by the size of the gift, but by the hope it brings.

A Vision Fulfilled

From the bustling business district of Ortigas Center to the heart of Fukaya, this partnership stands as proof that Rotary service transcends distance and culture. And just like the Daruma, whose eyes now see clearly, both clubs look ahead to a future of continued service, shared purpose, and friendship without borders.