(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Rafael A. Francisco served as District Governor of Rotary International District 3830 Philippines for 2006-2007. Known as Butch by his family and friends, he is a Multiple Paul Harris Fellow and was president of his home club, Rotary Club of Makati Central, in 1993-1994. Spouse, Maling, and son, Rafael Jr., are also actively involved in Rotary and are both Paul Harris Fellows.
R.A. (Butch) Francisco
Š 2007 R.A. (Butch) Francisco All rights reserved Published by RTV.PH Foundation, Inc. For permission to reproduce, in whole or in part, write the copyright owner. Email: rafrancisco@rotarydistrict3830.org Post: P.O. Box 2518, Makati Central Post Office 1265 Philippines Printed by MG Reprographics, Inc. San Juan, Metro Manila, Philippines. Cover design by Sir Speedy Book design by Herbert Montevirgen Rotary International and logo are registered trademarks of Rotary International. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners ISBN Pending
Reyes, Rodolfo O., 176
Swensrude, Neil, 97
Rivadeneira, Bernardita B.,
Tan, Corazon E., 154
56
Tan, Yolanda C., 80
Rosales, Felisa B. , 137
Tumangan, Guiller E., 198
Salas, Ma. Rhodora R., 162
Vidal, Ricardo Cardinal, 100
Sanchez, Teresita, 161
Villania, Elvira H., 109
Santiago, Ricardo L. , 103
Villavicencio, Ma.
Sapitan, Federico P., 89
Adelica B., 98
Sebial, Aks 181
Wilkinson, Wilfrid , 200-201
Segovia, Willy, 45
Yoshida, Steve, 106
Sin, Jaime Cardinal, 100
Yu, Doris E., 41
Singzon, Cesar R., 180
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I NDEX OF N AMES Acoba, Ma. Rosario, 147
Gimmi, Mel, 172
Afzelius, Edwin, 44
Indonto, Noe B., 50
Akwari, John Stephen, 111-
Jorge, Lulu Virata, 176
112
Josol, Jose G., 61
Alas, Donnies T., 189
Josue, Ma. Arlin, 123
Aquino, Corazon C., 100
Kaneko, Masato, 76- 78
Badr, Mohammad, 204
King, Ma. Paz, 131
Bartholomew, Helen, 134
Lucas, Alice, 119
Bates, Sydney, 132-133
Madrid, Rey, 176
Blessed Mother Teresa,
Maligaya, Malou, 115
28,98, 170
Marty, Conrad, 160
Boyd, Bill, ix
Oba, Hiro, 77
Bunye, Estelita F., 70
Oplas, Bienvenido Jr. S., 168
Cura, Jaime A., 74, 84
Oplas, Ma. Criselda, 66
Dela Cruz, Ma. Rosario
Pablo, Ignacio, 37
Elizabeth G., 193
Perez, Hugo, 127
Evangelista,Rocky Fr., 47, 101 Ferrera-Brunner, Estelita, 76
Quinlivan, Tony, 98 Rabe, Julie R., 159 Ramos, Fidel, 100 Razon-Arceno, Carmen, 114
Francisco, Rafael A., 68, 107, Rellera, Letecia C., 185 200-201, 218
Reyes, Angelo, 100
215
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
valuable time to help take care of her father who is ill, for being understanding with this endeavor and
T A B L E O F C O N T E N TS
the selfless care. My staff, for all the honest-to-goodness work and extra-work in order to finish the book in
FOREWORD .................................................... ix
accord with the timeline. Above all, the Almighty God and Father, whom we never forget to invoke in our club meetings, for the inspiration, guidance and unconditional love. And all those whose names do not appear in this book but who nonetheless helped put this together in one piece, for all the hidden sacrifices and generosity.
C HAPTER 1 BACK-TO-BASICS: A FRESH LOOK INTO THE FOUR-WAY TEST ..................................... 1 Keeping the table firm .................................. 4 Is it the truth?................................................ 5 Is it fair to all concerned? ............................. 8 Will it build goodwill and better friendships?...................................11 Will it be beneficial to all concerned?......... 15 A call to be committed................................. 17
God-willing, I look forward to start writing its sequel.
C HAPTER 2 Butch
SERVICE ABOVE SELF: LEADING THE ROTARY WAY ......................................... 20
Main objective: service................................ 24 The meaning of service ............................... 26 Essentials of service..................................... 28
214
C HAPTER 3 DRIVING THE WHEEL: MUSINGS IN THE LIFE OF A ROTARIAN ...................................... 31 First and last impressions ............................37 True rewards ................................................ 41 The reluctant president .............................. 44 Worth the sacrifice ..................................... 50 Little things, big discoveries....................... 56 Giving and living .......................................... 61 Never too young .......................................... 76 Going once, going twice, going… ............. 70 Serendipity .................................................. 76 Extra small club, extra big hearts ............... 80 Of treasures ................................................. 84 One wheelchair, one life, one perspective...................................... 89 Beyond borders ........................................... 98 Dr. Rotary is in ........................................... 103 Race to the finish .......................................109 Caught by the Four-Way Test ....................114 The rookie....................................................119 Sharing blood, saving lives ........................ 123 Public service the Rotary way.................... 127 Passion, hard work and dedication ..……... 131 Putting a smile on a child’s face ……………...137
A C K N OW L E D G M E N T
T involves
o come up with a book could be very
busy
daunting,
especially
executives—and
Rotary
if
it
club
presidents at that! I would like to thank all those who participated in one way or another in making this project a reality. First of all, the four club presidents, Noe Indonto from the Rotary Club of Las Piñas Camino Real, Inky Reyes from the Rotary Club of Makati Dasmariñas, Nonoy Oplas from the Rotary Club of Taguig-Fort Bonifacio and Buboy Intal from the Rotary Club of Rizal West, who helped me initiate this project, for their ideas, wit and good humor. All the contributors, whose names appear in Chapters 3 & 4, for sharing their original stories for the first time in print. Maling, who in spite of having to split her
213
C HAPTER 4 CLUB BITES: AMUSING STORIES IN THE LIFE OF A ROTARIAN ............................. 143 Unusual birthday party.............................. 147 Open sesame! ............................................. 154 The million-dollar question....................... 159 Rotary is for oldies?.................................... 162 From meetings to projects to parties—Rotary is lots of fun ..............168 San Isidro gem............................................ 172 It pays to listen ........................................... 176 The beard of fame ......................................180 When words aren’t your forte ................... 185 Short is beautiful: fun and service in the Rotary ...........................189 Center stage................................................ 193 No red light ................................................198 A chance to smile ...................................... 204 AFTERWORD ............................................... 209 BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................. 211 ACKNOWLEDGMENT..................................... 213 INDEX OF NAMES ......................................... 215 PROFILE OF THE AUTHOR ........................... 218
B IBLIOGRAPHY The bulk of the articles in this book consists of reallife stories of Rotarians, and only relevant bibliographies of the first two chapters will be cited, to wit: Bennet, William J.
Book of Virtues.
Simon &
Schuster, New York 1993. De Marco, Donald. Heart of Virtue. Ignatius Press, San Francisco 1996. Escriva, Josemaria. The Way. Sinagtala, Manila 1991. Orwell, George.
Animal Farm.
Harcourt Brace &
Company, New York 1946. Tuazon, Oliver M. (ed).
Back to the basics:
fundamental principles and values for nation building. FCA, Makati 2005. Most of the information about Rotary can be found in Rotary International’s official website, www.rotary.org.
211
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
all readers—Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike—to try to apply these principles into their own lives,
FOREWOR D
and somehow write their own life stories in due course.
I am sure that each Rotarian has
something to share, what with the constant exposure to these examples.
But why not, any
person of goodwill, to whom this book is dedicated,
example of the good lives of many, unsung
L
ordinary people.
by Rotary International President Bill Boyd to
will surely have a word or two to contribute in this valuable endeavor to help build this world with the
ead the Way has become an unforgettable theme for many Rotarians. It was chosen
embody his thrust for Rotary Year 2006-2007. Truly, at the end of it all, as one of the early
Expounding on this theme, he invited all
mottos of Rotary puts it, He Profits Most Who
Rotarians to lead the way ”by living as a role
Serves Best!
model of tolerance, unselfishness and integrity.” It is along these lines that we have struggled for the past year to build our clubs—its members and projects. And it is our wish that this
book—albeit
exhaustive—will
imperfect
somehow
and
encapsulate
nonour
endeavors. Incidentally, we can outline the entire book along the main ideas of President Boyd’s
210
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
challenge
as
quoted
above:
tolerance,
unselfishness and integrity
A F T E RW O R D
In this modern world, tolerance can only be understood correctly in the context of a real understanding of the truth. Notably, the concept The first question in our world-renowned ethical
O
code, the Four-Way Test, is all about it. Chapter
Rotary
1 will guide us into a deeper understanding of
amusings—of serious work and fun-filled service, of
this ethical code, positing the first as the
inhibitions and discoveries and moments of
foundation of the other three.
hesitations and generosity.
of truth is very much into the ideals of Rotary.
It ends with a
ne obvious conclusion that you will make after reading this book is that life in the
is
a
combination
of
musings
and
challenge to the reader to assimilate these principles and translate them into one’s day-today existence.
That is true and this book attempted to precisely
capture
this
day-to-day
drama—
seemingly contradictory yet forming a unity—in
The concept of unselfishness, on the
the lives of Rotarians, with the backdrop of the core
other hand, is tackled in Chapter 2. It is devoted
principles that make up the organization: its ethical
on the elucidation of the all-encompassing
code, the Four-Way Test, and motto, Service Above
Rotary motto of Service Above Self. It takes a
Self. We could liken these foundational principles
short glance into the history of service in the
elucidated anew in Chapters 1 and 2 as the spirit
world of Rotary as started by its founders. This
that breathed life into the flesh-and-bones (the
chapter also touches on how Rotary sees and defines service covering its four aspects: club service, vocational service, community service
x
real-life stories) narrated in Chapters 3 & 4. But the challenge only starts here. I invite
209
and international service. And to somehow put life into these concepts, the meaning and essentials of service are further elucidated. Finally, the virtue of integrity provides a perfect foundation on which the reader could understand and appreciate the variety of stories in Chapters 3 and 4. At the end of the day, each Rotarian should be able to ask him/herself sincerely if he/she is happy devoting his/her life at the service of humanity. Happiness will only be true if we keep ourselves ”whole” as we engage in our activities by the practice of virtues such as honesty, unity of life and fidelity—all of which strengthen one’s integrity. In 2005, integrity was the most looked-up word according to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary. It means ”firm adherence to a code, especially moral or artistic values.”
And in
Rotary, we have an ethical code—the Four Way Test!
We can say that the day-to-day
application of this code could best be gleaned from the actual stories of the lives of Rotarians.
xi
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Chapter 3, as its title Driving the wheel: musings in the life of a Rotarian suggests, puts together real-life stories of Rotarians as they ”drive the wheel” of their respective clubs. The
Or, for the likes of Jocelyn, giving them the ability to take the first step in spreading peace and joy: to smile.
”wheel”—a prominent icon of Rotary’s logo—is used in this case to symbolize the different clubs featured in the articles. Although majority of the stories
relate
the
contributors’
first-hand
experience in doing social service, some stories deal upon the fears, inhibitions and adventures of Rotarians. On the other hand, Chapter 4 touches upon the more amusing stories that will surely Its title, Club bites:
lighten up your day.
amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian, says it all. Hopefully, the reader would come up with the conclusion that although serving one’s fellow men/women requires effort, it is nonetheless fun and more so, fulfilling! The last article in the chapter—and of the book for that matter—was especially chosen to move the reader to give him/herself more in the service of humankind. It is both a ”musing” in the life of a Rotarian which is ”amusing” in its overall impact.
xii
Yasin served as President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas for Rotary Year 2006-2007. He enjoys watching news and current affairs programs and is also an occasional bowler.
207
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Together with the
This is Rotary Service—touching, uplifting, and improving the quality of people’s lives
other patient, the girl I met at the meat shop went to my office at my request. Immediately
I
brought
But wait a minute. This book was not written for Rotarians alone.
Although the
principles that were expounded and the stories told were about Rotary and by Rotarians, any reader
with
a
minimum
desire
to
help
them to the RC Parañaque
humankind will find some consolation in this
office for documentation
book—that there is hope to make this world
and scheduling. It was the
better! But it all depends on the effort of each
eve of Typhoon Milenyo, and the two girls seemed
one
to
give
him/herself
more
each
day,
to preempt the wet night ahead! Tears of joy welled
selflessly, in whatever endeavor he/she is
in their eyes as they were briefed of the assistance
personally engaged in—whether he/she is a
that would be given to them. Still they were in total
Rotarian or not!
disbelief of their fluke. A week later, the two girls were finally
R.A. (Butch) Francisco
operated on. Soon they were in their respective
July 1, 2007
homes and sent us text messages of their gratitude. Jocelyn, the shy and charming girl I met in a meat shop many weeks ago, now shows confidence: there’s warmth in her smile and glow in her eyes. She has a new leaf, so to speak. This is Rotary Service—touching, uplifting, and improving the quality of people’s lives.
206
xiii
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
I introduced myself as the president of the Rotary Club of Las Pi単as and told her that I could help her correct her cleft lips at no cost. I gave her a brochure of the Cleft Lip and Palate Project of the Rotary Club of Para単aque. The brochure had pictures of smiling children who used to have cleft lips. The girl gave me an incredulous look. She could not understand why a foreigner like me would take time and effort to lend assistance to an ordinary girl like her. I asked for her contact numbers; hesitatingly, she gave them to me. I also gave her my business card and told her to call me. But the call never came. Days passed and our club had another patient to be referred to the Cleft Lip and Palate Project. I remembered the girl I met several days ago and called her. I asked her why she did not call. She politely answered that she went to the province. I requested her to call the other patient and convinced her that the Rotary was willing to help her. She did.
205
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
A chance to smile Mohammad Badr T o
D
riving to work with a cup of tea beside me, I spotted a teenage girl inside a small
meat shop in Las Piùas. She was rather small and charming—except that she had a harelip, with parts of her gums and teeth jutting out of her mouth. I wanted to park and talk to the girl, but the traffic was jammed. Fearing that I might lose her, I rolled down my window and beckoned at her. Almost instinctively, the girl covered her mouth. Nevertheless, she approached me, thinking that I might be a customer.
204
a l l
m e n
o f
g o o d
w i l l
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
I had a stroke. But I was able to overcome it because of my will power to survive and my determination to serve. Now I can even dance the whole night. In the Rotary, there is no red light. We are always on the go. When you talk about service, the light is always green, 24/7. The limits of the terms of the officers are, for me, just imaginary. Whether or not you are the Governor, whether or not you are young or, well, aged—you continue to serve our less fortunate brothers and sisters the best way you can. That is and will always be the essence of Rotary: service.
Guiller Tumangan served as District Governor of RI District 3830 for Rotary Year 1999-2000. He has become a Training Leader of the Rotary International, training 530 incoming Governors from around the world.
203
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
On a club medical mission to Mindoro, my fellow Rotarians and I had to ride a jeepney to
CHAPTER 1
reach the place where we were to conduct the mission. It was especially windy that day. All of us held on to the rails of the public transportation. Except for one. One of the fellows held on to his well-kept hair, as if clinging to dear life. Like that fellow, I
The lesson here is that people who really have it in their hearts to help will not mind the inconvenience
can admit to being vain sometimes,
but
when
it
comes to our social outreach projects, we become simple people. The lesson here is that people who really have it in their hearts to help will not mind the inconvenience.
During that trip, we experienced things we weren’t use to doing in our everyday comfortable lives in the city. But I never heard a single complaint from any one. I forget to mention that prior to my assumption as Governor, seven months to be exact,
202
Back-to-Basics A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
important management conference to attend in Las Vegas. So please take charge of the visit.” I was taken aback. I am mentioning this anecdote because as much as I have experienced so many things already during that time, I still acquired an important lesson. Gov. Butch may not have been there, but before he left, he made sure everything was ready for the President’s arrival. In fact, he personally took care of the event’s logistics. His support was overwhelming. What was even more touching was that he came home immediately after his conference in order to be there during the last two days of President Wilkinson’s five-day visit. That event was a learning experience. It taught me true leadership. Gov. Butch had to attend an important business conference, but he never left his people behind. Finally, I’d like to end with a very short anecdote—one that I always find amusing.
201
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
President over-all that year. We fast forward just a little bit more—it was 1997 and I was elected as the District Governor for the 1999-2000 term. Aided by the help and support of my fellow Rotarians, our District was able to put up the first Rotary Academy in the Philippines, which gears to educate Rotarians through training modules on leadership and
primarily due to a belief that I hold—that a trained
F
Rotarian can serve better.
in public squares that the Four-Way Test has
service. It had a structure and even its own roster of faculty. It is a legacy that my term has left
or many, the Four-Way Test is all they know about the Rotary. It is so ubiquitous
become its ”ingredient” if Rotary is to be In the recent term of Governor Butch
considered a brand name.
Francisco, I continued to help out. In fact, it was I who was assigned to coordinate the visit of an
But would you know that this code of ethics
important dignitary, no less than the Rotary
is not an original Rotary idea? But of a Rotarian, it
International President-Elect Wilfrid Wilkinson
was!
himself. In
1932,
Rotarian
Herbert
J.
Taylor
Weeks before President Wilkinson arrived,
formulated the Four-Way Test as a business ethics
all the preparations were polished. But four days
code for a company that was facing bankruptcy. It
before the arrival, Gov. Butch called me.
is a 24-word test for employees as a code of conduct for their business and professional lives.
“Classmate, I have bad news. I have a very
200
And it has been credited for the eventual survival
3
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
of the company.
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Fast forward to 1993 and I became the President of my club, the Rotary Club of Makati
Today, the Four-Way Test is considered as
West. That was two years after Mount Pinatubo
one of the world’s most widely printed and quoted
erupted. The magnitude of the tragedy was such
code on business ethics. Adopted by the Rotary in
that we had to do something to help. Then and
1943, it has become the organization’s code of
there, I promised my members that for every peso
ethics.
they raise for the victims of the tragedy, I will shell
It serves as a personal examination of
conscience among its members as it goes, "Of the things we think, say or do: 1.
Is it the TRUTH?
out a peso as well. It was a big risk for me and I knew that. But I stood by my word. It was a challenge, and they
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
responded—enthusiastically. They were able to
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER
raise an awesome 450,000 pesos, at that time a
FRIENDSHIPS?
huge amount.
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"
As committed, I gave the same amount through the generosity of the company I was
K EEPING
THE TABLE FIRM
working with. As a result, we were able to give
Like the four legs of a table, the Four-Way Test has
houses to 18 families in Pampanga. Giving shelter
become the ethical baseline of the Rotary for the
to people during that time of tragedy, I felt, was
past six decades. We can go as far as to say that the
not an extraordinary thing that we did. It was our
strength of the Rotary may be gauged according to
responsibility as Rotarians. Rotarians will give
the way each Rotarian lives his/her life according
wherever and whenever there is a need.
to this code. The icing on the cake was winning the Most A building is only as strong as its
4
Outstanding Club and Most Outstanding Club
199
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
foundation—a table, its legs.
Hence, in this
chapter, we shall try to take a fresh look into this
No red light Guiller E. Tumangan
ethical code.
Let us assess, on a personal and
organizational level, on how we have been building our lives and clubs according to these principles. Why bother? It is because we want to avoid, paraphrasing the intellectual Augustine of Hippo, running very fast, but headlong to a deep cliff, or at the very least to the wrong destination. pursue
I
our
personal,
As we
professional
and
organizational projects, it is always best to see t was between 1987 and 1988. So many friends
them in relation to the principles that are meant to
were asking me to join the Rotary. I hesitated.
provide their meaning and direction, which for the
After all, I was of the impression that the
Rotary are enshrined in the Four-Way Test.
organization was just focused on talk of who died And so, let’s go back-to-basics …
the day before or who was rushed to the hospital hours ago. It was, I thought, an association for the IS
aged.
IT THE
TRUTH?
Right
It is very edifying to discover But I got tired of the pestering and eventually budged in September of 1988.
that at the very core of the principles of Rotary is the search and promotion of truth.
Boy, I am glad I did. My only regret today is the fact that I could have joined much earlier.
Because it can only tell us that Rotary has remained at the forefront in the promotion of
198
5
values instilled in the hearts and minds of people are necessary in nation building
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
the right values essential for the ordering of society
so when we went out, we were ready once again to
towards the common good.
work!
Right values instilled in the hearts and
In retrospect, I’d like to think that I gave
minds of people are necessary in nation building.
the club some significance. I worked hard to play
And these values will only be right if they are
my role well. In the end, I did not want to be
grounded in the truth. Truth about what? About
remembered merely as a good president, but as a
the very nature of things, of life, of relationships
committed Rotarian.
and of whatever have you. There were flaws, frustrations and even The way the first question is formulated in
lapses of judgment. But just like any other role that
the Four-Way Test—is it the TRUTH?—is very
one plays in life, they served well in making me a
telling. It is not the same question that has made a
more seasoned performer, a better person.
person famous or rather infamous for two millenia now: quid est veritas?, what is truth? We all know
Thank you, Rotary!
what he did after asking that question. The FourWay Test does not question the truth but asks if what is at hand is the truth. We can then say that at the very core of Rotary’s code of ethics is the constant search for the truth—the only stable foundation in building our personal and professional lives.
As the 17th
Century philosopher Francis Bacon puts it, “truth is that sovereign good of human nature.”
6
Lilibeth served as President of the Rotary Club of Parañaque Metro for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She has worked in the fields of Public Relations and Events Management.
197
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
See, our objective is not merely to be rated
In adhering to those perennial truths that
10 in the things that we accomplish, but to promote
are true to all men and women of all times and
within the club the factors of T.E.N.: T for
ages, the perfection of our human nature, of our
Teamwork, where there is less of me and more of
capacity to love and be loved and of our effort to
we; E for Effectiveness, in order to achieve desired
build a better future is achieved.
results;
being,
and
N
for
Networking,
fostering
whatever
be
his/her
Every human
race
or
creed,
recognizes these as belonging to the patrimony of
interconnections within the club.
humankind. Hence, we call them objective moral We also manifested the factor of T.E.N. in
principles or truths.
order to encourage creativity among our club’s members. For instance, we divided the club into
These truths are written in the tablets of
four teams, each tasked to plan, organize and host
our hearts and every human being recognizes them
club activities like our weekly meetings, special
as belonging to the natural law—that law which is
programs and workplace visits. Each team tried
built in the nature of humanity.
their
best
to
come
up
with
something
extraordinary for the club, resulting to a fun-filled, highly charged year for the Rotary Club.
We proved that yes, we do service, but we also take time to enjoy doing what we do through these light moments
Adherence
to
these
universal
moral
principles and the natural law constitutes the basis of understanding and the fostering of peace among
We proved that yes, we
various cultures and peoples in whatever part of
do service, but we also take
the globe. History tells us that it is precisely when
time to enjoy doing what we do
man neglects or completely disregards these norms
through these light moments.
that human rights are trampled upon and one
We really worked hard—blood,
group of people lords it over another. This reality
sweat, tears, and empty pockets
was succinctly made into a fable by George Orwell
always beleaguered us. But
in his famous novel, the Animal Farm.
during meetings, we recharged
196
7
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
What sets apart the Four-Way Test is that
Moreover, in Rotary, commitment is spelled
its first way, i.e., is it the TRUTH?, constantly
as S- E- R- V- I- C- E, because it only knows one
challenges the now pervasive relativistic mentality
commitment and that is to serve; to serve no
among many people. By the very fact that it is first
matter what the trade-offs are.
among the other tests, not only signifies its primary importance but also it being the foundation of the other three.
I actually looked for Rotary, and not the other way around, as most Rotarians would tell you. I lived overseas for 12 years because of my
Should one fail in the first way, there is no
husband's profession and I remember frequenting
question that the other tests become irrelevant.
the Philippine Embassy to volunteer myself to do
When it is an untruth, a lie that we are talking
activities for the Filipino communities. Sometimes
about, it will never be fair to everyone, it will
I would visit the prison, or go and meet with
neither build goodwill nor friendship and it will
Overseas Filipino Workers, and organize activities
never be beneficial to anyone. That’s the reason
and shows for them.
why we always ask first, is it the TRUTH? When my husband and I came back in 2001, IS
IT
FAIR
TO ALL CONCERNED ?
I was looking for something worthwhile to do. A
The question of fairness leads us to justice, one of
friend invited me to attend a Rotary meeting and I
the four cardinal virtues recognized by ancient
enjoyed it so much that I just kept on coming back
philosophers.
after. On the 4th meeting, I was inducted. I never
We could say that fairness is an
aspect of the more encompassing virtue of justice.
stopped after that!
Justice reminds and exhorts us to render
And now, here I am, having a fruitful year
others their due. Rendering others their due is a
behind me after leading our club’s 10th year.
very basic requirement for the sustenance of
Looking back, it was apt to have “Perfect T.E.N.” as
mutual dealings among people within a social
our club’s theme during my term.
8
195
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I am really a reluctant president—in fact, I tried to talk my fellow Rotarians out of it. I even
group and among societies, or in short, among all the human beings in this planet.
invited the seven Past Presidents to my house for lunch. I cried in front of them and said, “I don’t
In his book, Heart of Virtue, Canadian
know how to use the computer! How am I going to
philosopher Donald DeMarco, comments that
make a newsletter every week?”
justice presupposes love. He argues that although we are bound together as human beings with the
At the same time, I was aware that all I
invisible cord of justice, our rendering of what is
really had to do was give the best that I can, and I
due to another only happens if we have at least
will be fine. I was on a stage where there were no
some regard for him or her in the first place.
second takes, no cuts and no directors to guide my every move. But I was determined to put my heart and soul in the job.
Moreover, DeMarco affirms that it is possible for us to love everyone justly, even strangers, albeit it may not be a passionate love as
It was three years ago when I decided to
we render to people who are closer to us.
He
join the Rotary. I can’t help but look back to those
defined justice as that rectitude of our love we owe
days when I was still a fledgling Rotarian who
to all men and women.
nonetheless felt enthusiastic to understand the Rotary, its objectives and its mission as a worldwide organization.
Only in this context can we possibly regard everyone
as
equal,
not
I was aware, however, that enthusiasm
some men as more equal
was
here.
than others, extrapolating
Commitment was, is, and will always be the most
from the statement of one
important factor that makes one an effective
of the main characters of
Rotarian.
George
alone
not
enough
194
to
keep
me
Orwell’s
Animal
9
When we pose the question on fairness, what we ultimately ask is whether justice is accorded to everyone we deal with
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Farm. Even
the
great
Western
thinker
of
Center stage
antiquity, Plato, could not resist expounding on
Ma. Rosario Elizabeth G. Dela Cruz
this subject which has become the central idea of his masterpiece, The Republic. When we pose the question on fairness, what we ultimately ask is whether justice is accorded to everyone we deal with.
Jesus Estanislao wrote, “In governance, the horizon
W
cannot be limited to the ‘here and now’ or the
women are merely players. All have their exits and
short-term; a strategic perspective is required so
entrances.
That is fairness on a personal level. Meanwhile in organizations, governance laureate
illiam Shakespeare said that all the world is a stage, and all the men and
the long-term is given its due and much importance. The same strategic perspective extends
If I may add, essential too is what happens
the horizon way beyond merely narrow interests of
in between these exits and entrances, and how well
specific individuals or sub-groups within the bigger
the parts are played.
social group: it must cover the common interest and the general welfare of the bigger social body.”
I had mixed emotions the day I assumed the position of President of the Rotary Club of
The idea of the common good is then more
Parañaque Metro. I felt like I was on center stage—
understandable. It does not mean the good of the
all eyes were watching, all ears were listening. I was
majority but the good that stems from the common
completely
patrimony of humankind. The former can justify
expectations were high.
10
overwhelmed,
193
knowing
that
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
they were real.
I knew they would keep their
words. And they all did.
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
mob rule while the latter exemplifies justice, which again is ultimately rooted in the truth about man, as have been demonstrated above.
From then on, I went all-out, realizing that what really counts in the Rotary is one’s willingness to grab the opportunity to serve.
W ILL IT BUILD GOODWILL AND BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? In the past years, there has been a proliferation of “Ambassadors of Goodwill.” These are individuals who are expected to bring the “message of goodness” to institutions or even to entire nations. But what is goodness all about? This virtue may be understood more clearly by elucidating on how it is lived. Goodwill is manifested when we pass on to someone the goodness of a cause we sincerely believe in—like building our lives and organizations on a sense of duty, virtue, and love for God or as concrete as a social project for the less fortunate. Goodness is a spiritual treasure. When you say that something is spiritual, in contrast with something material, you refer to a reality which
Donnies currently heads an auditing firm. He served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati North in Rotary Year 2003-2004 and District Treasurer in Rotary Year 2006-2007.
192
you do not see with your naked eye and is not made of parts.
Air, for example, is invisible but
science tells us that it is made of parts like oxygen.
11
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
We can then say that air is material although we do
we achieved our goals because they saw that I was
not see it with our naked eye. Goodness on the
human too. I had my own share of strengths and
other hand, is neither visible nor material (i.e., not
weaknesses, and talents and limitations.
made of parts). Overall, things went way beyond anyone’s Following this reasoning, with goodness—
expectations. We gave so much support and
unlike with a material thing—you gain more of it
understanding to each other, it was astounding and
the more you share it with others. If you have 10
inspiring at the same time.
apples, and you give half of them to your friend, you will only have five apples left for yourself. But
I remember starting out my term as the
the ability to give requires and fosters the virtue of
Club President feeling extremely inferior to my
generosity—no matter how small—which adds to
fellow club mates, who were all CEOs and
your “goodness.” You may have five apples less, but
managers of their companies. I experienced
you have gained more generosity, more goodness!
sleepless nights and restless days for several months before my term even started.
How about the will? Philosophers describe the will as that human faculty that makes us choose
Our
club
members
the good. And the constant process of choosing
noticed the sudden shift from
the good builds our freedom, i.e., our capacity to
my jolly, casual self to Mr.
choose the good. Some people regard freedom as
Rigid Perfectionist. But thanks
the capacity to do as what they damn please. But
to
this attitude is precarious for keeping the harmony
encouragement I got from my
in a society and among individuals.
club, I was able to balance
the
immense
things out. One
manifestation
of
this
lack
of
understanding of the real meaning of freedom is
12
“You can do it, we will help you.” I knew they were real. I knew they would keep their words. And they all did
“You can do it, we will help you.” I knew
191
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
“Can you see me now?” I would ask.
when one disobeys the just laws of the land. One
Everyone would burst into laughter, and cameras
cannot insist on doing what he/she damn pleases
would start preserving the uproarious moment.
by not following the traffic rules, for example. If that person drives
Building
They were also particularly fond of inviting
counter to the flow of traffic, he/
towering guest speakers and matching them with
she may end up killing him/
me in the program, to the enjoyment of everyone
herself in an accident. He may
present. These moments brought amusement and
end up not just destroying his/
delight to our meetings and as a result, broke the
her freedom but that of others as
friendships is very much grounded on having goodwill
monotony and kept the members awake!
well.
How do I feel about this? I honestly love it.
This leads us once again to the harmony
In fact, I laugh with them. Never did I feel insulted,
present in the Four-Way Test. Fairness, goodwill
always welcoming everyone with a big smile.
and freedom always take as their baseline the
Ironically, I discovered later on that this made me
upholding of the truth. In the previous example, it
even more credible to them, as I was perceived not
applies to the basics of traffic rules, or the just laws
merely as their president, but as their close buddy.
of the land in the general. As Dr Robert P. George of Princeton University affirms: “True freedom, the
The result? More people started enjoying attending our community projects, initiatives
freedom that liberates, is grounded in truth and ordered to truth and, therefore, to virtue.”
related to vocational work, youth activities and visits to sister clubs.
In the same manner, building friendships is very much grounded on having goodwill.
The
I would like to trace my term’s effectiveness
opposite of which is selfishness, an attitude that
with the good relationships that we fostered with
makes service almost impossible as we shall see in
one other. More than anything else, I believe that
Chapter 2.
190
13
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
It is friendship that makes the world go round as what a friend usually says. We can say that it is friendship that provides the human warmth in justice, in fostering those harmonious relationships
Short is beautiful: fun and service in the Rotary
among people.
Donnies T. Alas
In carrying out our projects in Rotary, we have to see our beneficiaries as our fellow men and women, not as our slaves or as people who are so poor and needy that all they need is material help, making our service devoid of human warmth, kindness and why not, friendship. After all these years of helping people, we could already come to the
… more than material things, what makes our faces smile and our eyes look up to heaven is the love that goes with the help that is given to us, whether material or spiritual
conclusion that more than material
things,
what
makes our faces smile and our eyes look up to heaven is the love that goes with the help that is given to us, whether spiritual.
material
or
Only when we
see our fellowmen as we are—men and women who
I
was 28 years old when I started serving in the Rotary. My fellow Rotarians would jokingly
refer to me as the “baby Rotarian,” as I was then just 5’1” in height and 130 lbs. heavy. I am the one that they would always notice, the one they would always pick on, making fun of my short stature. During our weekly meetings, my club mates would ask me to stand up even if I was already standing. I would then play around with them by grabbing the nearest chair and standing up on top of it, with both hands held up high waving to all.
have inalienable rights and
14
189
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
did my best to implement our planned projects,
who have body and soul—shall we amplify the
and in the process, managed to even receive a Club
goodness that we aspire to create in our projects up
of Distinction Award during the District Awards
to the end of time.
Night for 2007! Truly, one can find great wisdom from I have to acknowledge the Rotary for
these words from the Holy Book: “No greater love
encouraging me to conquer my fear of speaking in
than this that a man lay down his life for his
front of crowds. I realized that there’s no use in
friends.” To love one’s friend is to want what is best
being afraid to step out of one’s comfort zone. The
for him or her. What is best for our friends—and to
lessons one will acquire will be truly priceless.
our fellow men and women in general—can never be evil. True friendship is always geared towards the truth and the good. W ILL IT BE BENEFICIAL TO ALL CONCERNED ? Beneficial, benefactor and beneficiary—terms that are often used when a social project is being carried out—can all be traced from two Latin words, bene and facere, which can be loosely translated to “good” and “to make.” In other words, we can say that these three terms all refer to the idea of “making good.” As we have noted above, this good that we try to achieve is always connected with the truth.
Letty served as President of the Rotary Club of Muntinlupa North for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She is a mother of five and a painting and bowling enthusiast.
Metaphysics actually considers both terms as
188
15
transcendentals of being, together with unity and
A virtuous man will certainly be
beauty.
|
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
In short, we can
sentences
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
regarding
my
say that being is one, true,
proposed projects and plans
good and beautiful.
for the year.
It is
along these characteristics
beneficial to all
that we can measure the
Suddenly, my mind
and a project
effectiveness of all these
went blank. I opened my
built upon virtues
questions that form the
mouth and tried to proceed.
will definitely be
I realized that there’s no use in being afraid to step out of one’s comfort zone
Four-Way Test. “I … I …”
both beneficial and And
sustainable only
be
these
truly
could
acquired
when one struggles to live
I searched inside my head trying to find the words to say.
a life of virtue. Virtues, put simply, are those stable dispositions that make a person good or do good.
“Mmm … a …”
They are built from the constant practice of moral values.
But nothing came out of my mouth. In my mind I thought, “Oh my, I have got to finish this!” One acquires virtues as he or she constantly
practices a good act, up to a point that that act
Lost for words and hurrying to get out of
becomes part of him or her, that is, a second
the situation, I simply blurted out, “Well, actions
nature. In simple words, we call a virtue a good
speak louder than words. I promise there will be
habit, as opposed to vice as a bad habit.
plenty of worthwhile and meaningful projects during my term as President of the Rotary Club of
A virtuous man will certainly be beneficial
Muntinlupa North. Thank you.”
to all and a project built upon virtues will definitely be both beneficial and sustainable.
16
The rest is history. I have since moved on. I
187
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
words to say. You see, words do not come easily to
Cultivating a life of virtue is a life-long
me. When I am in front of people, all the thoughts
process.
I planned on articulating depart from me.
whether we are young or old. As we learn to act in
And the best time to start is now—
accord with objective moral norms and the natural I eventually had to face my worst fears
law, we learn to live these virtues in a constant and
when I was elected to be the President of my club. I
stable way. And that marks the start of living what
knew that as president, I was trapped in a corner—
is highly-regarded as a virtuous life which
I would be falling into a pit that I always tried to
consequently builds up our character and lifestyle
avoid. This time, there was no escape route for me.
of goodness.
Want it or not, I had to speak before an audience. And so goes that my most unforgettable
A
CALL TO BE COMMITTED
night as club president was during my induction
After having taken a fresh look into the Four-Way
night, when the time came for me to deliver my
Test, a fresh look into our own lives is but the
message. To this day, I can still remember that
logical consequence. Only then can we truly make
fateful moment.
a fresh look into the way we run our clubs and why not, our families as well.
I walked slowly to the podium and faced the audience. Gosh … I felt as though my heart
The Four-Way Test as a code of ethics may
stopped beating! I paused, took a deep breath and
sound as a tall order for each one of us. But it will
closed my eyes tight. I gathered the courage I
not be so if we take it first upon ourselves as our
needed and opened my eyes.
personal ethical code of assessing the way we live and build our lives. And then we can look at the
In front of everybody, I managed to go through my opening greetings with nary a glitch.
way we build our families, clubs and the society we live in.
Then, I succeeded in delivering three to four
186
17
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Just like acquiring virtues, measuring our lives according to the standard of the Four-Way Test is a lifelong process. We grow in our ethical or really say that we are sufficiently formed, because
When words aren’t your forte
formation—that effort to improve on a regular
Letecia C. Rellera
moral life as we go through life. We can never
basis through personal struggle and external help—never ends. We can liken our struggle to be virtuous and ethical to a man pushing a big rock on an inclined plane. If the man stops pushing and stops striving to take the rock to the top, the rock will roll down with him, or worse, on him! But if he does his best—even if it is just a slow process, which the Japanese call
Just like acquiring virtues, measuring our lives according to the
A
sk me to cook, to bake, to sew or to clean and rearrange the house, I will gladly do it.
Cooking is no fuss, sewing relaxes me.
kaizen—as long as it is a steady climb, that man will
But public speaking, well that’s a different
succeed in attaining his
story. I loathe speaking in front of people. For me,
ultimate goal.
it is dreadful, downright nerve-wrecking, and fearintensive. Whenever I encounter a situation where
standard of the Four-
All these call for a
Way Test is a lifelong
personal commitment. We
process
can begin with one good
I will be called upon to speak, I always make an excuse to get out of it.
no
My fear of speaking does not result from
matter how insignificant.
shyness, but the fear that I will lack the proper
deed
18
after
another,
185
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
BACK-TO-BASICS | A fresh look into the Four-Way Test
pronounced when one considers my lady-like
It is actually in our small, daily efforts to improve
nickname “Ces.”
that eventually will make us comfortable later on in making those big leaps to be better. Even if we are not able to organize big projects ourselves, all of us can contribute in his or her own little way in building our societies by taking care of the little things. I would like to end this chapter with some words of wisdom taken from a modern sage and saint, which I hope can start a spark inside you that will make you commit once and for all to live your life
according
to
the
Four-Way
Test
and
consequently help build our society, no matter how small your contribution be: “Have you seen how that imposing building was
constructed?
One
brick
after
another.
Thousands. But, one by one. And bags and bags of cement, one by one. And stone upon stone, each of them insignificant compared with the massive whole. And beams of steel, and men working, hour after hour, day after day … Did you see how that Ces, a lawyer, served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati McKinley for Rotary Year 2006-2007. This Samar native, who once aspired to become a medical doctor, is the eldest of eight children.
imposing building was constructed? … By dint of
184
19
little things!”
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
come I was well known and popular with the group. One GSE team member said, “It’s because he has this (pointing to my chin).” “Oh, a beard!” said my classmate. So
the
culprit
was
discovered—my beard, which I cut just once in two weeks.
Sure, there are many handsome, articulate and smartlydressed Rotarians, old and young, but none of them possessed a beard
When I looked around, I noticed several hairless Rotarians. But their big number makes their baldness less striking. Being bald, I guess, is not enough to get noticed and to leave a lasting impression on the Koreans. Sure, there are many handsome,
articulate
and
smartly-dressed
Rotarians, old and young, but none of them possessed a beard. Indeed, among the presidents of RI District 3830, I stood out as the only club president who sported a beard. The branding becomes even more
183
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Initially, the Koreans were not scheduled to
CHAPTER 2
be with us during our Christmas party. A Korean Rotarian, who was supposed to accompany them to go to some places, cancelled their appointment on the last minute. Luckily, our party fitted their schedule. The Koreans were bustling from one location to another that they were left tired and worn out. This is why they only managed to spend two hours with
Service Above Self
us.
Leading the Rotary Way
My position as president of the club required me to meet all the people present in the party
But those two hours were more than enough for me to register in their memories. In truth, I only got to talk to them for just a few minutes. Obviously,
my position
as
president of the club required me to meet all the people present in the party. I was not a GSE superstar or a district officer in charge of the Koreans. And like I said, I was not able to spend a good deal of time with them. A lady Lead President even questioned how
182
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
members of the inbound Korea Group Study Exchange (GSE) in December 2006. Our fellow Rotarians were surprised when all six of the GSE team members approached me one by one and shook my hands like long lost friends. Aks Sebial, the Rotarian in charged of the Koreans, was trying to introduce me to each one of the team members. He was surprised to hear the Koreans’ common response, “Yes, yes … we know him.” I met those Koreans only once before the party, so imagine my own surprise. What was in me that made a lasting impression on them? You see, a week or two before the farewell party, those Koreans were with us during our Christmas Party at the Rotary Club Makati McKinley. The Koreans had a dizzying schedule with quite a number of clubs both in Makati and Metro South arranging activities for them to attend. These clubs played home-stay hosts, or day hosts for a myriad of activities and tours in and outside the district.
181
SERVICE ABOVE SELF |
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Leading the Rotary Way
The beard of fame Cesar R. Singzon
I I
t all started with a donation to a poor preacher in Chicago. His horse had died and he could
not replace it. Because of this, he was unable to never considered myself famous.
make
the
rounds
of
his
churches
and
parishioners. Moved by compassion, the founding I am not the type who stands out among
the crowd. People seem to not even recall my name
members of Rotary decided to give him another horse.
a few minutes after I am introduced to them. I am used to being just another normal face to new acquaintances.
That was in 1907. A century later, in our own times, the word Rotary has been made akin to ”service.” From that single donation to a poor
But on a party hosted by the Rotary Metro South clubs, it all changed.
preacher, literally thousands of projects—from poverty
and
programs, For one night, I had a sudden change of fate … of fame.
hunger
eradication
environmental
to
literacy
protection,
global
eradication of polio, and the like—have now been carried out throughout the world by Rotarians.
It all happened in a farewell party for the
180
Hardly would you find a Rotary Club in any
23
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
part of the world that is not doing any type of
attend the next meeting of the Rotary Club of
service to its community. In this chapter, we shall
Makati Dasmariñas.
deal with the ideal of service as seen by Rotary as an organization. From this, we shall discuss some
See you there!
principles that are needed to do effective, efficient and sustainable service to our fellow men and women. M AIN
OBJECTIVE : SERVICE
Rotary’s motto, ”Service Above Self,” was coined in 1911, a year after the first ever convention of the National Association of Rotary Clubs in the United States. They culled it from among the phrases used by the speakers in the convention, among which were: Service, Not Self and He Profits Most Who Serves Best. These phrases speak of Rotary’s deepseated desire to render service in the workplace, communities and the entire
It has since been the ”Object of the Rotary” to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise
world. It has since been the ”Object of the Rotary” to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise, and in particular, to encourage and
24
Inky served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati Dasmariñas for Rotary Year 2006-2007. Aside from his stint in Rotary, he is also a Governor in the Philippine National Red Cross.
179
SERVICE ABOVE SELF |
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I looked at her sincerely in the eye and said,
Leading the Rotary Way
foster the following four aspects of service:
“Would you like to have it? I’d be more than willing to cede the prize to you!” With a big smile, Lulu gratefully accepted my offer, and hastily wrested the piece of paper with the black star from my fingers. Then, as sincerely as she was unaware of her fate, she looked at me and said, “You ’re such a nice guy for giving up your raffle prize for my sake.” (If you were Filipino,
you
could
just
imagine
how
this
conversation went as we were speaking in our native tongue.) Well, you should have seen her face when she found out what owning that piece of paper meant. When Rey called her to come to the front and bare her innermost secrets to the other members, she protested that the piece of paper actually belonged to me. Naturally, I denied her allegations. The rest is history. Lulu went up to the front of the room, and boldly answered all our questions. Now we know that … well, whatever it is we know, that’s for you to find out when you
178
First, the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service; second, high ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society; third, the application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business and community life; and fourth, the advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service. From these four aspects of service arose Rotary’s philosophical cornerstone named as the Four Avenues of Service: Club service which focuses on strengthening fellowship and ensuring the effective functioning of the club; vocational service which encourages Rotarians to serve
25
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
others through their vocations and to practice high ethical standards; community service which covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community; and international service which encompasses actions taken to expand Rotary’s humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding and peace.
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
announced that an empty water glass containing pieces of paper would be passed around. The Rotarian who picked the one with a big black star drawn from it would be required to sit in a chair in front of the room and answer, as sincerely as possible, all questions posed to him/her, be they professional, personal, or super personal. When
Rey
was
announcing
these
guidelines, our dear Lulu was busy exchanging T HE
MEANING OF SERVICE
banter and the latest news in Metro Manila with
We could say that the aforementioned object and
the Rotarian seated next to her. She was totally
avenues of service are its ”technicalities.” But what
oblivious to the game mechanics, and the possible
is more crucial is each Rotarian’s conviction to
compromising situation the hapless owner of the
serve, based more or less on one’s understanding of
piece of paper with the black star would find
the true meaning of service.
himself or herself in.
... man is a gift—that his perfection consists in giving himself as a gift to another
The great Pope John Paul II
who
is
loved
both
Alas, I drew the piece of
Christians and non-Christians
paper with the black star.
alike used to say that man is a
Suddenly,
gift—that
seated next to me, noticed
his/her
by
The lots were drawn.
perfection
Lulu,
who
was
consists in giving him/herself as
that
a gift to another. Although the
unwanted piece of paper. She
ultimate expression of man’s
told me, "You’re so lucky to
perfection as a gift is when he/
have won the raffle prize!”
26
I
had
drawn
that
177
I had drawn that unwanted piece of paper. She told me, "You’re so lucky to have won the raffle prize!”
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
SERVICE ABOVE SELF |
Leading the Rotary Way
she offers his/her entire life to the Creator, his/her service
to
his/her
fellow
men/women
contributes to this perfection.
It pays to listen Rodolfo O. Reyes
also
And since the
perfection of man is intrinsically linked to his/her true happiness, only in this way—when man or woman gives himself or herself as a gift—can he she be truly happy. We express this ”self-giving” in a very concrete way in those acts of service we do at home to our family, in our work environment to our
I
colleagues, in our day-to-day life to those people t could never have happened to a more
we meet every day, and of course, in the social
dedicated,
outreach programs that we carry out in our
committed
and
hard-working
communities.
Rotarian. But it did—to a Charter Member of our
Is it not our personal experience to feel very
Club at that. Because she was not listening to the
happy everytime we see the smiles in the faces of
Rotarian speaking at the rostrum, Community
the people we serve? Are we then not moved to
Service Director Lulu Virata-Jorge paid a dear price.
forget all the arduous preparations we had to make? Moreover, doesn’t this inspire us to move on
Part of our program during our Club
with our next outreach project?
Assemblies is the “Hors d’oeuvres” where we entertain members and guests through parlor
E SSENTIALS
games. That fateful day (for Ms. Lulu), President-
But how if people to whom we do service to do not
Nominee Rey Madrid was the game master. He
seem to appreciate our work and all the sacrifices
176
27
OF SERVICE
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
we had to go through? And worse, how if they
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Our club also conducts medical missions in the village three times a year. We also bought
misjudge our service as a propaganda?
sewing machines and trained the people to use We could say that only when these things happen in one’s effort to serve the others does
them. This helped them acquire additional income for their families.
one’s conviction to serve is proven authentic. All these projects in what used to be an This is where real charity—an essential part
unknown village fascinates me until now!
of service—comes to the fore. We are lucky to have in our times a person who has exemplified this type of service up to its deepest consequences and who should thereby inspire us to persevere in our efforts to serve the others, even those who may not be able to thank us: Mother Teresa of Calcutta, now named a Blessed. Blessed Mother Teresa once said that she has found a paradox: that if you love until it hurts, there will be no more hurt, only more love. We can develop practical lessons applicable to our clubs from this apparently
... if you love until it hurts, there will be no more hurt, only more love
spiritual consideration. Love is true when it is continually not
given—although
necessarily
28
felt—in
Mel served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati Urdaneta for two years.
175
SERVICE ABOVE SELF |
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
It also made the parents more involved in their
adverse moments.
children's education. They used just to send off
example, the love of a
their children to school. Now they would even take
husband for his wife is
turns with the teachers in watching over the
tested when they are not
library.
in good terms and when
Leading the Rotary Way
For
in these moments, they Also, the surrounding area's appearance improved
promise they made in
completed. Dilapidated buildings were repaired,
marriage to stay together
and even the residents nearby attempted to
through thick or thin, in health or sickness, for
improve the appearance of their homes. The well-
better or worse, until death parts their ways.
library
the
really
library
we stand above all these apparent difficulties will we understand what true service is all about
was
maintained
since
continue to affirm the
It is only when
must
have
been
instrumental in raising the standard of beauty and order in the community.
We can apply the same thing in carrying out our social projects. Sometimes perhaps we do not feel like doing them anymore because of the
Once, my husband and I donated a large world map to the school.
effort involved, the difficulties of soliciting funds,
It was so big that it
the apparent ingratitude of the people, or any other
covered one side of a classroom's wall. People say
hurdle that may arise. But it is only when we stand
that little San Isidro is the only nook in Rosario
above all these apparent—yes, I place emphasis on
that has one of these. Some would even take it
the word apparent—difficulties will we understand
further, saying that no map this vast can be found
what true service is all about.
in all of Batangas! The sustainability of a social outreach I recall that story with deep joy, because it
project or any humanitarian project for that matter
is indicative that San Isidro's people began to have
depends not so much on the availability of material
more sense of worth.
resources but on the spirit of the people behind the
174
29
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
project. That is like paraphrasing what a sage and
those days, books were things of
a saint used to say—that projects fail not so much
luxury. We did not even know
because of a lack of money but rather because of a
what a dictionary was!
lack of spirit. But San Isidro did not It is in the spirit of love and sacrifice—
stay that way for long.
touchstones of true service—can we persevere in doing these good works. We can then affirm that
One of our projects was
we should not allow difficulties, opposition and
the construction of a library for
ingratitude to dampen our willingness to serve. In
the
fact,
our
Elementary School. At least once
intention. It is only then can we truly say from the
a year, our club would visit the
bottom of our hearts that we are here to serve, as
place and bring new sets of
our motto says, above self!
books.
these
obstacles
help
us
rectify
pupils
of
San
Isidro
… in order to have something to read for an assignment given in school, my classmates and I would gather pieces of newspaper used to wrap tuyo (dried fish)
Before refurbishing the library, we also provided amenities for the school's playground.
We were told that children would
often stay late in school to play, but now they stay late to consume book after book! The library also catalyzed unexpected changes in the town. For one, it bonded the community more, as the village folks themselves constructed the library.
30
173
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CHAPTER 3 San Isidro gem Mel Gimmi
I
Driving the wheel: t was back in 2004 when Marycris Oplas, my Immediate Past President, went looking for a
place to conduct our literacy, health and livelihood projects. I proposed at once my hometown, San Isidro. San Isidro is a small farming village in the municipality of Rosario, Batangas. It is poor and primitive in many ways. Back in the day, in order to have something to read for an assignment given in school, my classmates and I would gather pieces of newspaper used to wrap tuyo (dried fish). During
172
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
accommodate you. Don’t worry about it!” At the end of my term, I learned that more than anything else, there are hundreds of ways to serve our less-privileged countrymen. Similarly, there are equal number of ways to have fun while doing so. Sometimes,
there
are
problems
and
unpleasant instances in the club, just like what would normally erupt in any organization or even household. But overall, I can say that the Rotary is one big happy family that I’m extremely proud to be part of.
Nonoy served as President of the Rotary Club of TaguigFort Bonifacio for Rotary Year 2006-2007. He does business development and advocacy work.
171
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
In the district’s post-Valentine party sponsored by six clubs, I was asked to be the male emcee. This would be my second experience (after several years) to host a big party. I can live off on spontaneity and very little planning, so I gladly said “Yes, agree, olrayt!” On the night of the party, I realized that my role as emcee did not just entail spicing up the program with surprises and wacky punch lines. I
W
hat does it take to be a Rotarian?
also had to be ready to accommodate the
As the chapter title suggests, we are going
spontaneous requests and announcements from
to look into the life of a Rotarian and discover how
the
audience,
sponsoring
of
the
each one ponders upon his/her vocation— a word
case,
my
that is commonly used in Rotary’s official website
classmates, the presidents of the
to describe the “calling” to be part of the Rotary
sponsoring Rotary Clubs.
and to live up to its principles.
especially
organizations;
There are hundreds of ways to serve our lessprivileged countrymen. Similarly, there are equal number of ways to have fun while doing so
the in
heads this
I thought to myself that
What is evident among the stories in this
one didn’t need Einstein’s brain
chapter is the idea of service being at the core of
or Mother Teresa’s heart to
the Rotary. One can not be said to be truly a
discern whether a request should
Rotarian unless he/she has served, whether as an
be accommodated or not. Even if
organizer or a participant, in any of the Rotary’s
this meant a possible extension
community service projects. Be it a medical
in the program, I told all those
mission, a fund raising event, a school construction
who requested, “Heck, sure, I’ll
project—name
it—chances
are,
a
somewhere out there has probably done it.
170
33
Rotarian
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
And for good reasons. As one president
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
happy speaker … so this meeting is adjourned!”
would share, service is Rotary’s own way of deepening
the bond that exists among its
In our Yahoo! Group for all club presidents
members. It is an opportunity to meet like-minded
and
individuals, who don’t mind giving up a portion of
communication with my fellow presidents or my
their time, effort and resources to promote projects
“classmates.” Many of them really put a lot of effort
meant to uplift other people’s lives. Rotary, after
and dedication in their club projects, including
all, cannot be a club for its own sake. It must be a
joint ones with the district leadership or with other
club in the service of others.
clubs.
district
officers,
I
maintain
regular
We have expounded on the idea of service
Such dedication, warmth and sense of
in Chapter 2. Service, however, is better done than
humor deserve praises. In my case, I exaggerate my
said. Rotarians are all too aware of this. In this
way of praising them. For instance, instead of just
chapter, you will read some first-hand stories that
saying, “It was a fun-filled induction (or charter
may hopefully move you to do your part in
anniversary) party,” I’d write in my weekly
rendering service to others.
message, “It was a slam-dunkin-swayin-rockin-nrollin-evenin’ held by the club!”
Who knows how much the Rotary has done for the community? The smile on the lips, the
A number of my classmates and district
twinkle in the eyes, the tears on the cheeks, the joy
officers told me that they enjoyed reading my
in the hearts of those whose lives Rotarians have
postings, and they really flatter me! Well, these
touched
guys are industrious, and I can only attempt to
are
unquantifiable,
but
they
speak
volumes about just how much change a civic
level their efforts by being a hardworking writer!
organization can do. Being with the Rotary Club also helped me In this chapter, you will also find out how
34
to hone and showcase any talent that I have in me.
169
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
some Rotarians discovered what it means to be one— sometimes the hard way! It will come as no surprise that quite a number of them, business and
From meetings to projects to parties—Rotary is lots of fun Bienvenido S. Oplas, Jr.
civic leaders at that, shy away from the presidency for various reasons. But for every nominee who declines, a brave soul steps forward and takes the cudgels for the club. A difficult task is what he/she will find, but one that is nevertheless enriching and fulfilling. In return, whether they are discovering
I
their vocation as Rotarians or are busy helping others, it is their lives that are changed—hopefully come from a small club that relatively does not
forever! The symbol of the Rotary being a wheel,
have much projects. However, this does not
stories on this chapter makes one realize how it
stop us in any way from turning our weekly
means to drive that wheel.
meetings into lively occasions. Let us now take a peek into the life of a For instance, whenever we had a joint
Rotarian.
meeting with other clubs in the District, I opened the meeting by saying, “On behalf of my club and of our happiness, I call this meeting to order.” Or if we have a speaker, I would close the meeting by saying, “I am happy, you are happy, everybody is happy listening to the ideas of our
168
35
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
And it's for the curious, the doubtful, and the indifferent to discover.
Rhoda served as Assistant Governor for service projects for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She was barely in her thirties when she was elected president of Rotary Club Makati Dasmari単as (1999-2000), becoming the youngest president in the district then.
167
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
In retrospect, however,
The fun is in the fact that after immeasurable amounts of sacrifice … there we were, celebrating service and friendship
the fun was not really in the parties themselves or
some
activity.
First and last impressions
Rather, it was in the fact that as
Ignacio Pablo
other
socializing
we were enjoying the company of friends, we had, first and foremost, privileged
helped
our
less
fellowmen
by
touching and improving their lives through our projects.
The
fun
is
in
the
fact
that
after
immeasurable amounts of sacrifice—be it time, effort, or money—there we were, celebrating service and friendship.
I
t was a story of first impressions that never lasted. In some odd way, I initially thought the
Rotary Club to be elitist, exclusive and eccentric. I
Today's young generation may perhaps view the Rotary as I did many years back. Two things are true, though. One: then and now, the Rotary Club enriches lives, both to those of the club members and the beneficiaries. And two: there is fun in the Rotary.
166
thought it was nothing but a group of people sharing stories and hearty chuckles over expensive cocktails in luxury hotels. I was held back by the impression and was reluctant to the invitation of my boss way back then. But after some more prodding, I indulged anyway, figuring it was the only way I would be able to confirm my thoughts. And I realized I was wrong.
37
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
memory. It was there when some of our male Instead of being in the middle of useless
colleagues did the limbo rock, clad in their floral
chatter that I had rashly expected, I found myself
shirts and white pants, singing an old Davey
in a discussion of social projects instead. A feeding
Crocket song off-key. Everybody just went gaga
program for a community in Pateros was the object
over them.
of the discussion and, upon learning that I was into nutrition, they asked me if I could be of help.
There was also a parody of the then popular gag show segment Ang Dating Doon. With three of
I saw it was a noble cause and decided to
my fellow presidents acting as Brod Pete, Brod
say a quick yes. That yes led to another yes and
Basa, and Brod Tulog, everybody just died laughing
another yes and another yes. Soon, I decided to
at their witty question-and-answer portion, which
dedicate myself to the organization.
was mostly impromptu.
I soon led the setting up of a soup kitchen
Meanwhile, the girls, including me, just
for preschoolers, and, with my background, I led
opted to dance the Macarena on that night of
the project with a multidisciplinary approach.
cultural presentations. Had we recorded the program on video, it would have become an object
Small though our project was at first, our
for blackmail!
catchphrase was something more universal: “Feed the
children,
build
the
nation.”
Various
And then came those somewhat indulgent
organizations believed in our aim to look after the
nights of inductions and conferences. Apparently,
health of schoolchildren and gave us funds to
the Rotary wasn't the killjoy organization I once
realize our goals.
had in my mind!
Aside from the feeding program, we formed
I’m actually having fun, I thought.
a Nutrition Information program to educate the
38
165
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
year 1999—I was inducted president of RC Makati
mothers of the school children we fed. We also had
Dasmariñas. My batch of presidents had a moniker
food production lessons and livelihood projects for
for us—“The Millennium Presidents or Mill P's"—
the families.
which gave us some kind of prestige unique among presidents the Rotary will ever have. Unique as we
We knew that a project should be
were, I believe we were a batch to remember as a
sustained, and this could be done by helping others
circle of friends one would find difficult to forget.
help themselves. We knew we had to go beyond giving our beneficiaries what they needed; we knew
It was during our Presidents-Elect Training Seminar (PETS) when I first met the 57 new
we had to provide them technical know-how to carry on with what we have given them.
additions to my treasure chest of pals and gals. Boy, did we have fun!
That project began a series of initiatives that sought to aid the poor in our communities:
At first, however, we were all so stiff and
teaching them to raise ducks, reaching out to Mt.
conscious, trying to feel our way amongst one
Pinatubo victims, ensuring ample water supply to
other. During the lectures, everyone was attentive
certain barangays.
and generally quiet. Some even took the effort of jotting down notes. Never did it occur to me that
In each of these projects,
this group of executives and professionals would
there had been doubts at the
We came to
soon morph into a boisterous batch of club
back of our minds as to whether
presidents, the bane of any District Governor!
or not we could pull it off. But
Which was what exactly happened.
thanks to the Rotary Foundation
realize that money would never be a problem for noble goals and unselfish dreams
and
all
the
groups
that
In one of our official outings, we unleashed
supported it, we came to realize
a series of wacky events all for the sake of Rotary's
that money would never be a
spirit of fellowship. They are still fresh in my
problem for noble goals and
164
39
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
And the carefree girl that I was, it did feel
unselfish dreams.
nice inside to be able to alleviate some people's Still, it was not an easy path that we had to
miseries.
tread. To achieve our goals of serving communities, we sacrificed time and capitalized on optimism and
As the years passed by, it was like that. My
our passion to help others. All this paid off, of
dad was active in Rotary projects, I in my studies.
course, just with all the grateful smiles we always
Then I moved to the States to work on my master's
saw in the faces of the people we have touched in
degree.
our own simple way. It was all rewarding. After several strenuously wonderful years Now, we are concentrating our efforts in
there, I came back to the Philippines. And guess
ensuring the continuity of the projects we have
what my father gave me as a welcome-home-hija
started, optimizing all the available resources and
gift—a proposal for me to join the Rotary!
training new leaders who can take over what we have begun—leaders who have compassion for
I was taken aback.
others, who think beyond themselves and believe in the nobility of losing oneself in the service of others.
Me, joining the Rotary? But, goodness gracious, it's for old people!
From my bad impressions that lasted so
After a period of hesitation, eventually I did
soon, it’s now a story of us trying to leave behind
join, but with flawed conviction. Little did I know
lasting good impressions in the name of service.
what marvelous surprises I would encounter there and how many myths about the Club I would soon
Nash served as District Committee Chairman of The Rotary Foundation for Rotary Year 2006-2007.
shatter. At the dawn of the third millennium—the
40
163
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
True rewards
Rotary is for oldies?
Doris E. Yu
Ma. Rhodora R. Salas
A
s
a
child—and
perhaps
even
as
a
teenager—I would not associate the word
D
uring my term, I learned that for a person to be fully Rotarized, he or she has to be
“fun” with the boring noun that is spelled as “R-O-
President. Being the captain of the ship, I was able
T-A-R-Y.”
to experience the wonderful world of service and fellowship.
No. Never. Fulfillment of having it done is just but a Well, perhaps it was fun for my dad and his
portion of the story. The true reward of service
fellow Rotarian friends (many of them I called
came with meeting the people I had the privilege of
"Tito"). I can still remember going out with them to
serving.
do community service projects like dental and for
One project closest to my heart was "Every
handicapped people—practically stuff generous old
Child, A Reader," a reading and feeding program
people do.
we did for an hour and a half every Saturday for six
medical
missions,
donating
162
wheelchairs
41
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
months. We had momentous times like when a
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
This question caught his
child would show progress, and depressing times
attention,
and
when we could not convince the parents to bring
unblinking eyes on me for 5.8
their child to the program.
seconds. Then he said, “I am the President One incident I will
When we asked him why he was not eating, he said he was saving it for his family
he
of
fixed
his
Hyundai
Corporation.”
never forget for the rest of my life was when one particular child was not eating
My blood froze; I could barely breathe.
his food. When we asked him why he was not eating,
How dare of me to forget that I could be rubbing elbows with… presidents or CEOs of large companies in Rotary activities
How dare of me to forget
he said he was saving it for
that I could be rubbing elbows or sharing drinks
his family.
with or asking stupid questions to presidents or CEOs of large companies in Rotary activities!
My heart suddenly sank. Fortunately,
another
seatmate,
the
I could not help but think that it is in times
beautiful Teresita Sanchez of RC Makati Uptown,
like these when we should reflect on our personal
butted in and asked a question. I was immediately
issues to see just how small they are compared to
kicked out of the hot seat, thank God.
the issues being faced by other people in society. I was saved by the belle. It is also in times like these when I feel grateful for the opportunities that I have. That incident truly made me take another look at my life. It made me realize how much more I should help people like that child, and how I should stop com-
42
Julie served as President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She owns a catering business.
161
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
presidents-elect were to have a meeting. Most of
plaining about problems in my life. After that ex-
my colleagues were already there when I arrived,
perience, I just had to be thankful for everything
chatting and bustling through tables and against
that I have.
each other. Soon someone directed me to the table where seated was a group of elected presidents
At the end of my term, my gratitude goes
from Makati. They were already talking to one
out to the people behind my being a Rotarian and
another like old friends.
President. Thank you for allowing me to have, not just the experience, but the realization of a lifetime.
I sat and began feeling rather out of place. Something urged me, however, to break the ice and talk to my seatmate, but I was at a loss for clues on how to start. Then I just went for it—I asked for his name and the club he represents. “Conrad Marty,” he said, “RC Makati.” I asked him what business he was involved in, and he quickly replied he was into “selling cars.” Meanwhile, the conversation around the table continued. I, however, was busy pondering what more I could say to that handsome salesman. So I asked again. “So, Conrad, aside from selling cars, what
Doris served as President of the Rotary Club Parañaque Southwest for Rotary Year 2006-2007.
do you do?”
160
43
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
The Reluctant President
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
The million-dollar question
Edwin Afzelius
Julie R. Rabe
I
t was a Thursday evening in July 1985 when a friend introduced me to the Rotary Club of Las
PiĂąas. Being a new resident of the city, I was in search for friends and a group to belong to. The Rotary, I saw, could provide me exactly that. Besides, doing community service has always been part of my life, even during my youth. It turned out that the Rotary would give me more than a sense of belonging: now I have a large circle of friends and have acquired invaluable lessons on life and leadership that I would never trade for anything.
H
aving just been elected president of my club, I had been feeling nervous and a bit
insecure about my leadership skills, especially that induction night was coming in fast. But thanks to the Presidents-Elect Training Seminar (PETS) during the summer of 2006, I soon became confident and quite sure of my plans for our club. But this was not after experiencing my life’s most embarrassing moment there. The April heat was negligible inside the room at the Makati Sports Club where we
44
159
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
became my inspiration in trying to propel my club
The years since I joined the Rotary gave me
to glory. It was little wonder that soon our club
opportunities to serve the club in different ways.
harvested eight district awards.
First, I assumed simple club assignments such as committee
Certainly, with a “locked in” commitment of the president and the support of the club
chairmanships,
followed
by
club
directorships, then the office of the club secretary for three straight years.
members, success is a piece of cake with a cherry Then the earth shook. I was elected
on top.
President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas in 1994. Faced with a club with only five (out of 20) members attending regular meetings, I was adamant in refusing to take the presidency. Club membership and attendance were awfully poor. I hesitated for the longest time, until the insistent prodding of Past District Governor Willy Segovia finally pushed me to take up the challenge and commit myself to reviving the club. I surmised that to put back life to the club, I knew I
Change had
had to invest on my members,
to start from within
especially Cora served as President of the Rotary Club of Parañaque Lakambini for Rotary Year 2004-2005. She is
an avid golfer and a watercolor painter.
158
my
core
group.
Change had to start from within. Thus, with the handful of men that I had, I began to reinvent the club, partly by putting on
45
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
new people into the core group. I outlined to them
unwelcome burden for me.
the principles to which my administration would
Rather, it was my sweet
adhere: sincerity, transparency, dedication.
yoke, having to lead and serve my club, not so much
Soon enough, we began to see our phoenix
for our own good but for
of a club rise from its ashes. Membership began to
the
grow. First, we brought in our friends, most of
privileged
whom were business people. Then, these friends
sisters.
good
of
our
less
brothers
and
Certainly, with a “locked in” commitment ... success is a piece of cake with a cherry on top
brought in their friends. The increase was almost exponential!
Being elected president was like being “locked in” because no matter what you do, you
Now the big challenge was how to keep the
just can’t get away from your duties and
members at it, how to keep their zeal to serve ever
responsibilities; otherwise your club dies, dishonor
ablaze. So we banked in on activities that fostered
haunts you, and other people suffer.
fellowship and genuine service to the youth and the poor. We strove to make everyone happy being a Rotarian.
My members who helped me “escape” also proved that members’ support for the president is crucial in running an effective club. My members’
Indeed, all these instances made the club take flight again, but not without costing us huge
summons for repairs people that night still resound in my head.
personal sacrifices. Do anything to break that door. Our Then, after my term as president of RC Las Piñas, I was assigned to several district-wide
president is locked in, and we can’t start anything without her!
positions throughout the rest of the '90s and the early 2000s. Those were tiring years.
46
Indeed, throughout my term, that incident
157
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
familiar voice, probably to a utility man. “Our
So when I moved to Alabang and joined the
president is locked in, and we can’t start anything
Rotary Club there, I thought it was finally time for
without her! Cora, don’t worry, we’ll get you out of
me to rest and cherish my family and friends 100
there.”
percent. I was wrong. Little did I know that this new club would again catapult me to the “Yes, thank you.”
presidency.
Despite our helplessness, my hairdresser
This definitely gave me the chills, as I was
and I just stayed calm. Noticing my hairdresser’s
basically a new member and the legacy of its past
harassed look, however, I knew I was calmer than
presidents was rather demanding. How was a
he was. At the same time, I was beginning to
newcomer to lead such an already-prestigious
realize things.
club? Besides, assuming such a position was already the least of my priorities.
Meanwhile, the hubbub outside continued. I could hear my members asking the building’s
Yet again, after some coaxing from my
repairs personnel to destroy the lock at all cost. But
friends, I eventually took on the now-familiar yet
30 long minutes still had to pass before the lock
essentially different challenge.
was finally extricated.
When
I got out, I
immediately joined my members at the crowded
Before long we were already doing several
hall amid music and food, as if nothing happened.
projects, the flagship of which is the support we
Then the program started.
extended to the Tuloy sa Don Bosco Street Children Center under the care of the Tuloy Foundation.
In
retrospect,
my
being
locked
in
Founded in 1993 by Fr. Rocky Evangelista, Tuloy
symbolized the absolute commitment demanded
houses hundreds of children aged 9-18 at a
on me as club president. That—for lack of a better
compound just across Alabang Town Center. Here
term—“imprisonment,” however, was in no way an
children are fed, clothed, sheltered, and educated,
156
47
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
preparing them to enter mainstream society
something wrong with its lock. We shouldn’t close
equipped with technical skills and sound values.
it; otherwise we might not be able to open it again, as it didn’t have keys.
Now, as I end my term in July, I look back Then one of my club members came in.
to a year full of discovery, joys, and pains. It has been worthwhile. Aside from family and friends, now I have Tuloy, a piece of heaven for street
“The governor is here!” she announced
children on earth. Retiring from the presidency, I
excitedly. “How much time do you need to be
plan to make Tuloy known abroad, primarily
done?”
through Rotary International, so more donations “Um, a few minutes,” I replied. “Oh, and
would pour in. We just can’t keep the Tuloy
please leave the door ajar; something’s wrong with
“magic” a secret!
it.” Twice have I hesitated to become club president and twice have I taken on the challenge
But, preoccupied with all the induction
armed only with a desire to serve. Thanks in most
jitters and excitement, she hurried out the door
part to generous and committed colleagues, the
and—
clubs I headed (which I initially refused) came out
SLAM!
garnering many awards—credible proof of having served hundreds of people, making profound
door was shut, and now we were locked in!
changes in their lives.
By having less, we ended up having more
I gasped; my hairdresser screamed. The
True,
my
fellow
Rotarians and I ended up with
I heard my members panicking outside. Some of them sounded hysterical.
less money, energy, and time for rest after carrying out all
48
“Do anything to break that door,” said a
155
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
those projects. But by having less, we ended up having more—friends, generosity, and shining
Open sesame!
legacies for generations to come.
Corazon E. Tan
S
LAM. Gasp. Scream. The thing I dreaded happened.
It was the night of my induction as president of the Rotary Club of Parañaque Lakambini. Fixing me up for the annual gala at one of Manila’s grandest halls, my hairdresser-cummakeup artist was carefully daubing rouge on my cheeks, making sure his mistress comes out as the night’s Helen of Troy. My mind, meanwhile, was on a totally different thing: the dressing room’s door. We were warned a few minutes ago that there was
Edwin served as President of The Rotary Club of Alabang for Rotary Year 2006-2007. He has been named Most Outstanding Club President.
154
49
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
and fellowship. These folks will always be in my heart, for it is with them that I took my first steps into the world of Rotary.
Worth the sacrifice Noe B. Indonto
J
oining organizations was not new to me. I was active in different organizations even
during my teens. I also led a large organization called the Kabataang Barangay in my home city of Oroquieta. Even after my college days, I was active in other civic and community organizations. All of these experiences combined served as a very good baptism of fire in instilling the leadership qualities that I needed in a big position that I took on later in life. There is this innate character in me to
50
Rose served as President of the Rotary Club Makati Legaspi for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She plays the piano well, and cooks just as wonderfully.
153
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
were not enough to carry it.
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
The people were
easily get involved in a group. So much so that
asked to line up, and as expected, some people fell
when a Rotarian business partner, Francis de
in line again after consuming their share. It didn’t
Guzman, invited me to join the Rotary Club of Las
matter much in the end though—it was a fiesta for
Piñas Camino Real, I did not hesitate to attend the
the whole barangay, and everyone was happy.
meeting.
I’ve returned to Tuhian twice since then,
During that time, I had stopped becoming
but this time as President of the group that once
active in other organizations because of the
upon a time allowed me to tag along as a guest.
business problems experienced by our real estate company, Oroquieta Properties, during the Asian
Working with the Rotarians shattered my encompassing preconceptions about the club. Surely it deserves some flak at times, but Rotary, as I found out, is service at its best. As I led in the distribution of wheelchairs, the turning over of a new water well and a laundry facility, the inauguration of a hardwood seedling bank and the delivery of the first batch of books for the library for Tuhian Elementary School, every smile and every pat on the shoulder seemed to affirm that bond that has developed between myself and the people of Tuhian. Every trip back to Tuhian is a homecoming, a tribute to the sealing of a partnership with service
152
Financial Crisis. But my innate desire was too strong for me to resist the Rotary. Before long, I was already being inducted as our club’s 7th President! My election as President came as a surprise to me. I never saw it coming. I had only been with the club for less than a year at that time and so I felt that I was not qualified. I was also unprepared financially. I knew that my company’s unstable financial condition needed my full attention. But yet again, my personal instinct and my desire to be of service to others prevailed over my personal worries. I
51
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
I was up and running by 4:00 a.m. the next
accepted the position even with very limited
day, and I was able to watch the first batches of
personal resources.
people trickle into the site by 5:30. The first Despite the challenges that I had to face that time, it proved to be one of the best decisions I
patients were attended to half an hour later, and everything ran smoothly.
ever made in my life Being
I learned … that as a Rotarian you should be willing to share your three T’s: time, talent and treasure
with
the
Rotary teaches you a lot of things. On my part, I learned during the President Elect Training Seminar (PETS), an activity that prepares the future Rotary Club President for his job, that as a Rotarian
you should be willing to share your three T’s: time,
Things got more interesting as noon approached, with military vehicles bringing in more people to the site. I watched as little kids lined up to wait for their turn at the dentist’s chair, poker-faced, without worries. I contrasted this with memories of bribing my sons with ice cream just to make them undergo a simple prophylaxis. And here, these little kids open their mouths wide when they’re told to, awing me with their deportment.
talent and treasure. The
As the ranks of people in the site did not
instability of my business restricted
me from giving it all to the club. Nevertheless, my acceptance of the club’s presidency was anchored with the hope that, prior to assuming the position, my business would fully recover and be financiallysound again—-and it did. But I was still worried, knowing that my time, talent and treasure would be divided between the business and my club.
52
appear to thin out, what was scheduled to be a half-day affair loomed longer. Soon it became clear that I would have to prepare something for the people as well. I cooked such an amount of pancit
bihon
(a
common
noodle dish) that five men
151
Working with the Rotarians shattered my encompassing preconceptions about the club
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
It was, after all, my friend’s birthday celebration, and we arrived a day early just for the occasion.
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
One of the most important lessons that I learned was that as the club’s president, I had to deal not only with my own problems but the club
Among Catanauan’s charms are its beaches,
members' as well.
and the medical mission camp was set near an especially pristine one in a Rotarian’s house in
In one instance, during a campaign for the
Barangay Tuhian. This barangay, for some reason,
members' perfect attendance to club meetings, a
did not enjoy the same advancements that the
Rotarian told me, “I am very sorry Mr. President. I
neighboring towns enjoyed. No signal reached our
cannot attend the meetings and the other activities
mobile phones. There was a dearth of potable
of the club anymore because I have problems with
water. Tuhian did have a well, but it was green with
my business.”
mosses and neglect. I asked him the extent of his problem and My pampered years in Manila made me
learned that his was just minuscule compared to
hesitant to dip my hands into the water, and the
mine. There were 29 members at that time and I
sight of carabaos contentedly basking in water
was not willing to lose any of them. That is why I
pools by the well did not help my imagination.
did not hesitate to reveal to him my personal problems with my business. Upon hearing it, he
Tuhian was also desolate in some places,
was taken aback.
such that distances signified by a local’s "diyan lang" (lit. just over there, i.e., it’s near) took twenty
I also gave him advice, telling him that the
minutes to cover. Dirt paths led to other dirt paths.
Rotary experience can aid him in finding solutions
I was thankful we were able to purchase everything
to his business problems. After that, he attended all
we needed in Manila, as there were no grocery
the meetings of the club.
stores nearby. Being with Rotary, I realized that having
150
53
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I believe it is far better to give and help when you have little because this shows true sacrifice
CLUB BITES
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
limited resources is not a
rubber
slippers
hindrance to helping people.
necessities like alcohol, cotton and drinking water.
I find it amusing sometimes.
I thought that the slippers were for us, and I
I've heard some Rotarians
naturally
say that one must have a lot
delegation members were already asked to bring
in order for him to give and
their own. She explained that the slippers were to
help.
be given to the people. It was my first glimpse into
thought
together
it
with
the
superfluous,
obvious
since
the
what we will find in Catanauan, that little But I believe it is far
better to give and help when you have little
municipality which would be the site of our mission.
because this shows true sacrifice. Sacrifice, for me, The day finally came when we left for
is the essence of service.
Catanauan. I fetched the military doctors from There were times during my term when I
Camp Aguinaldo at two in the morning, and a
had to sacrifice a part of the family budget in order
couple of hours later we transferred to a bus and
to give something to the ones in need. My four kids
went on our way. The delegation was rather large,
sometimes had to make do with their small
with Rotarians, doctors, dentists, and media men
allowances because I had to pay the dues of the
numbering about fifty in all.
club. There was even one family vacation that had to be postponed because a large amount was needed as contribution for a project.
I only had an idea of how far-flung Catanauan was after we passed by Lucena—where we entered stretches of unpaved roads rumored to
All these I did because of my belief in the Rotary motto of “service above self.”
be within NPA (New People’s Army) strongholds. We had few reasons to grumble, though, as the seemingly endless journey through ramshackle
It is quite heartening to see in the eyes of
54
roads finally led us to a welcome fiesta at the end.
149
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
participate in a Rotary-organized medical mission
the people that we meet their realization that all is
in Quezon.
not hopeless, that there are still people who are willing to help them.
I was
It happened back in
surprised when she told me that she will be celebrating her birthday during the medical mission!
2002, when I was not yet a
This is the case with a community, whose
member of the club. I had
families are mostly informal settlers, that the Club
my own notions of the
adopted in Pilar, Las Piñas. We helped the
Rotary as a group of elitists
residents to put up their own cooperative by giving
who would not dare roll up
them funds to start a micro-financing endeavour.
their
We also tried to give them livelihood programs by
sleeves
lest
their
fingernails get dirty.
providing them skills training in making bags and operating a bakery.
On a personal note, I knew how much my friend was fond of throwing parties in upscale
Despite everything that I had to go
establishments. And so I was surprised when she
through,
nothing
can
replace
the
joy
told me that she will be celebrating her birthday
fulfillment that I felt when I was serving others.
and
during the medical mission! I was resolved to decline the offer, until she assigned me to oversee
It was all worth the sacrifice.
the food preparation. The chance to feed a mission’s workforce was something I just could not refuse, and so I became a volunteer cook! A few days before we left for Quezon, my friend asked me to accompany her to go shopping for supplies that would be needed for the mission. I was a bit surprised to find ourselves hauling bags of
148
Nonoy served as President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas-Camino Real for Rotary Year 2006-2007. He lives with his wife Cherry and their four children, the youngest two of which are twins.
55
CLUB BITES
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Unusual birthday party
Little things, big discoveries
Ma. Rosario Acoba
Bernardita B. Rivadeneira
M
y Rotary story goes back to my high school days, when I became a part of
G
rowing up in the neighborhood of the nation’s most active volcano and the
Interact, a Rotary initiative for young students.
many nefarious storms that blast Albay annually
Eventually, I took part in the activities of Rotaract
accustomed me to the difficulties of assisting in
during college. Later on, I became the director of
relief operations.
these clubs for eight years. Aiding people in need, I learned, involved Rotary Osaka generously granted me a
sweat, toil and soreness of limb. All those summer
scholarship, which enabled me to study high
camps and outreaches I went to as a young lady
school and college. After I finished my degree and
made it clear to me that these undertakings spared
received my diploma, I worked as a telephone
no room for glittery things.
operator, earning 1,800 pesos a month. I wanted to join the Rotary that time, but felt like I won’t be able
to
contribute
much
56
to
finance
the
This mindset probably explains my initial misgivings upon being invited by a friend to
147
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
development of acquaintances that bestows endless
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
organization’s projects.
opportunities for service. When I acquired the position of Manager in Because in the end, really, there are no losers.
2000, I decided to join. In the next five years, I was tasked to assume several positions in the club. And
Everyone who participated, everyone who exerted an effort, everyone who ran the race—they all came out of the marathon that is the Rotary with a brand new perspective in life: that service is not just about helping others in their material needs.
in the Rotary’s LEAD year, I became the President of my district. When I was elected as President, I had a lot of doubts and worries. I wondered if I was really ready to take on such a big responsibility. You see, the year before I became President was the year our
It is also about giving yourself: to be able to laugh with your peers, to be able to positively exchange anecdotes of joy, to be able to appreciate the color and diversity of the quirks and uniqueness of the people in your group. Rotary enables you to learn to be happy
club experienced turmoil. It was truly a big test—our club was on the brink of dissolving as members either left or were preparing to leave due to reasons I will no longer discuss. Also, I started my term five months earlier than scheduled, and this was very, very demanding.
with the simple joys in life. I inherited a bank account without money, In Chapter 3, we tackled some of the
plus a list of "payables." The club literally did not
discoveries of Rotarians on how it means to live up
have anything—we neither had bond paper to use,
to the demands of the club. On a lighter side, let us
nor a secretary to assist us.
now take a look into some of the amusing stories in the lives of Rotarians …
There was no momentum to build on, and
146
57
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
members were losing their
I only had a
fire to join and serve in the
single objective, and that was to help ... I thought that if everyone kept this in mind, they can be happy without much complications
club’s activities. During our weekly
meetings,
only
three or four people would show
up.
It
was
so
frustrating that I would have
sleepless
nights
thinking of the best remedy to empower my club.
L
ife in the Rotary is just like a marathon.
I began by looking at myself. I only had a
You give it your all, you perspire, you
single objective, and that was to help. It was that
thirst—all for the good of the ones sitting on the
simple. I thought that if everyone kept this in
stands: your peers, your supporters, your family.
mind,
they
can
be
happy
without
much Your heart is not rooted on personal
complications.
triumph, but on service. You run tirelessly for the Within
the
club,
I
tried
to
forge
sake of making the world a better place to live in.
connections by encouraging the members to treat would.
But you also grasp that building world
Friendships helped a lot in setting an excellent
fellowship, goodwill and peace entails not just your
mood in our club.
wisdom and courage, but also your sense of humor
each
other
as
brothers
and
sisters
that appreciates the little surprises that spring up. After a few months, the situation became better. People started seeing clearly the objective of
You see that making friends with your co-
each project that we initiated. On my part, I
runners is better than just running alone. It is the
58
145
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
followed up members, and offered to fetch and even feed them! Attendance in the weekly meetings grew up to 25! We were even recognized as having the highest membership growth among all 75 clubs in District 3830. Whenever I remember these experiences, I always think that dissolving the club was so easy to do back then—it only took a click on the Internet web page, in fact. But you know, the little things enabled me to continue. Our club founded the Samahan ng may Kapansanan (Group of Disabled) in order to help disabled people from Barangay Bangkal, Makati. We were able to lend a hand to 214 people of all ages by giving them a chance at livelihood projects, and a center with complete facilities. If we didn’t have this little treasure of a project, I would have closed the club. It touched me in ways I cannot explain.
59
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I can really say that the lessons that I acquired as President are truly, uniquely priceless.
CHAPTER 4
Club bites: Amusing stories in the life of a Rotarian
Barbie served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati Buendia for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She is the President of an international freight forwarding company.
60
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
felt that it was well worth it. I feel glad that I was given the chance to be a part of the mission. Hopefully this project will
Giving and living
continue, through the help of the club’s friends and
Jose G. Josol
donors. We want to share the feeling of fulfillment after helping other people. We want to share to others the feeling of putting a smile on a child’s face.
I
feel so lucky to have been given the chance to touch the lives of my fellowmen who are in dire
need of humble service. A year after I served as the Club President, I was granted the opportunity to become the Deputy District Committee Chair of the Interact Program and the District Coordinating Chair for the Service to Youth Groups. Handling the Youth Development Program
Fely served as President of Rotary Club Makati Rockwell for Rotary Year 2006-2007. She works in the fields of baking and public relations.
of the district for almost five years now has
142
61
enlivened my Rotary spirit and has enabled me to
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
further
my
knowledge
in
leave
the
|
operating
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
room
because
I
felt
When I was
Rotary International’s Youth
uncomfortable seeing a tiny tot being operated. I
young, I was told that young people are the hope of the nation. To this day, I still believe that
Program. It also provided me a
could not look at her face due to the blood. If I
venue
stayed any longer, I would have fainted.
to
propagate
Interact
and
the
Rotaract district.
Almost an hour later, her surgery ended.
Surrounded by teenagers and
Jonevie was rolled off the recovery room to the next
young
both
room. As she woke up from the anesthesia, she felt
extremely
confused and cried. Her mother came to comfort
Programs
programs,
in
the
adults I
of
felt
her.
young at heart!
When
When I was young, I was told that young
Jonevie’s
people are the hope of the nation. To this day, I
mother turned to see her
still believe that. It is this very belief that I try to
daughter, tears of joy fell from
instill in the minds of our Interactors and
her eyes. With the girl cradled
Rotaractors every time we organize activities for
in her lap, she wept as she
them.
gazed at her daughter’s new
With the girl cradled in her lap, she wept as she gazed at her daughter’s new face
face. One
of
these
activities
is
the
New
Generation Conference where we invited notable
I stayed in the hospital until all the kids
speakers who all shared their experiences and
were operated on just to make sure that everything
knowledge to some 500 young people of the
turned out fine. One by one, children placed in the
District. We initiated the event in the hope that the
arms of their joyful parents were brought out of the
speakers' insights would help the youth in living
surgery room with restored faces.
better lives. Despite the exhausting hours of waiting, I
62
141
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Rockwell and the Philippine Band of Mercy. The
Another activity of such nature is the Voice
messages that they wrote showed how thankful the
of the Youth Impromptu Speaking Competition
parents were.
where some 20 high school students from all over the country were invited to speak their minds on
At 10:00 a.m. that day, I talked to the head Surgeon Dr. Esquejo and the anesthesiologist Dr.
certain controversial topics that concern young people all over the world.
Casilang to ask how the operations would go. I also sought permission to enter the operating room to
Personally, the most memorable experience
observe. They gladly agreed. As a hospital routine, I
was
put on a green robe and covered my hair with the
International School students to the Elsie Garces
hospital cap. There I was, I thought, just like one of
Home for the Mentally Retarded for a Christmas
the medical team members.
party. The experience gave them the opportunity to
when
I
brought
some
20
Southville
mingle with the residents. Inside the room, the mood was tense yet at the same time exciting.
At first, I noticed that the students were quite hesitant to approach the residents because of
The operating area was dimly lit with only a
their unusual behaviour. Some even hid behind
few lights on top of the operation table. The
their group mates so as not to be noticed by the
surgeon started to work on the youngest of them
residents. But eventually, after a few games and
all, Jonevie. Little Jonevie is eight months old and I
some snacks, the students eased up and felt
immediately felt attached to the child the first time
comfortable spending time with the residents.
I saw her. In fact, everyone she met turned out to
Some even insisted on extending their stay. They
be quite fond of her because the kid loves to smile
must have realized how fortunate they were to be
a lot.
living less-complicated lives. After fifteen minutes inside, I decided to
140
63
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Definitely, I have gained a lot by giving myself to others through Rotary
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
It was inspiring for me
end of December, the line up was complete, and
to discover how a single club
the operations were scheduled on the 20th of
can
January with the help of the Philippine Band of
affect
the
lives
of
hundreds of other families. I learned
this
Mercy.
when
we
medical
and
On the eve of January 20, fifteen kids were
Tondo,
admitted at the St. Jude Hospital. Two big wards
Manila. We never expected
were occupied by these children aged six months
conducted dental
a
mission
in
that a huge crowd—around 600 families—would
and above for surgery the following day.
show up for the event. Our medical volunteers— assistants—admirably
Early morning of the next day, I was at the
attended to the patients who did not mind the long
hospital looking after the needs of the kids,
queue just to get their free check-ups.
coordinating with the hospital administrator, and
ten
doctors
and
seven
talking to the medical team. With me were Never did I felt bored in any of the Rotary’s activities. I especially enjoyed talking to my fellow
President-Elect Ellyn Gorra and Rotarian Kris Dancel.
Rotarians, and the young people of the Interactors and the Rotaractors. I did my best to inspire them
We took a few photos and gave some
with kind words. I also allowed them to inspire me
candies and toys to the kids. We also devoted time
with their enthusiasm and unselfish dedication and
in reassuring the parents of the children that their
commitment to the Rotary’s maxim: service above
kids will turn out fine after the operation.
self. I also brought with me a poster of the kids, Definitely, I have gained a lot by giving
where I asked the parents to write something to
myself to others through Rotary. Leading the way
their children’s benefactors, the Rotary Club of
in sharing our club's blessings to others in need
Tokyo Shinjuku, the Rotary Club of Makati
64
139
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Two years ago, the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell led by my Immediate Past President
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
was extraordinary—their fulfilment for a better life became our fulfilment too.
Lucita Sanchez conducted “Operation Smile” in Tarlac with the support of the Rotary Club of Tokyo-Shinjuku. After seeing the joy in the faces of the children and adults that we were able to help, I was inspired to continue the same project during my term. I knew however that such an endeavor required sufficient funding and the consolidated efforts of the members of our club. When the
group
went
to
Tokyo
in
November 2006, the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell took the opportunity to thank the Rotary Club of Tokyo-Shinjuku for the assistance they extended which paved the way for the successful surgery of several poor Filipino children in Tarlac. With the success of that outreach mission, RC Makati Rockwell brought up the idea of staging Operation Smile Part 2. And they agreed.
the list of children that we intended to help. By the
Jojo served as President of The Rotary Club of Las Piñas West for Rotary Year 2001-2002. A native of Bohol, he once considered entering the priesthood.
138
65
After that trip, I got myself busy finalizing
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
Never too young
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Putting a smile on a child’s face
Ma. Criselda Oplas
Felisa B. Rosales
W
hen I was assigned as the District Secretary, people were saying that I
was too young for the job. They’re right—I was only a Junior Rotarian back then. A big challenge was posed to me—I had to show everyone that I honestly do not have hidden motives or ambitions like holding a high position in the Rotary. I accepted the position in order to serve the Rotary the best way I knew how. There was that willingness inside me to accompany the new Governor in the challenging voyage of leading the District.
T
he birth of a child is a joyous event.
But for Edna and Carlos that joy was shattered the moment they saw their daughter's face. Josefina's heart was filled with pain when she saw her little daughter was disfigured. Little Jonevie’s upper lip was distorted. Lip and Clef Palate are among the most common birth defects in the world. In the Philippines, the cases of oral clefts are estimated two in every 1,000 live births. People with these defects experience emotional, psychological and social trauma.
66
137
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
undertaking. Legacies stand because of passion,
DRIVING THE WHEEL
My
audit
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
practice
which
and
involves
audit
firm
hard work and dedication. These are what make
management,
administrative
your “time of service the most fulfilling moment of
matters, were put to good use especially on those
your life.”
rare occasions when disagreements can not be avoided. The extensive auditing training helped me to get by in terms of work pressure. The first three months were the most challenging, yet it would be an understatement to say that the subsequent months were “lean” ones. I experienced first-hand what many would call the “Rotary Syndrome.” I could not sleep because of the anxiety and pressure! I was adjusting to the workload
demanded by
my
position. At the same time, I was doing my best in fulfilling my obligations as a mother and as a professional.
I was doing my best in fulfilling my obligations as a mother and as a professional
Very often, when club presidents or other Rotarians would like to talk to our District Patti, is from the Rotary Club Makati Jose P. Rizal She headed the Rotary International Annual Convention Promotion Committee for Rotary year 2006-2007.
136
Governor to, say, invite him to an important clubsponsored District activity, many of them would call me first to ask for the Governor’s whereabouts.
67
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
It is amusing sometimes because some assume that
The Bahile Housing Project has turned out
my position enabled me to know Governor Butch’s
to give a hundred shelters in the capital of Palawan,
whereabouts 24 hours a day!
changing thousands of lives in the process. It was fulfilling in the most inexplicable way, and the
Working with the Governor was extremely
project being recognized as the “Most Unique
enriching. I especially look up to his independent
Shelter Project” was merely icing on the cake, so to
decision-making. He proved that he was not a
speak.
District Governor of only a few, but of the whole I could not have
district. I saw this first-hand through the choices that he made during his term.
all
these
projects
without the support of my
I say no to politics, and yes to policy and procedure; no to popularity, yes to what is right
done
From the very beginning
organization
and
No leader can accomplish things on his own
friends,
of my term, the District knew
and I guess the people who will come after us will
that
have to learn that no leader can accomplish things
I
was
very
straightforward—I say no to
on his or her own.
politics, and yes to policy and procedure; no to popularity, yes to what is right.
Yes, I gave up many things—even my hobbies for some time—to be able to carry these things out. But I have no regrets, knowing our
In the end, after months and months of
group has changed lives for the better.
tough work, people were telling us that they supported us amidst everything. Here I learned
Once in a while, I get asked what the secret
that credibility can never be bought or be replaced
to success is, what one needs to achieve great
by anything.
things. If there is something I would like to impart to those who will come after us, it is the fact that a
As I look back at all my experiences in the
68
bright idea can only take you so far in any
135
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
venture in the organization.
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Rotary, I see that everything has been worth it. Every day of my term, I got to meet wonderful
Another project my team was involved in was the Bahile Housing Project in Puerto Prinsesa.
people. Each day gave me a chance to grow to become a better person.
I was still president of the Women in Travel Club of Manila when, after a seminar, Mayor Edward Hagedorn showed up in our hotel to meet with our group to share with us his vision of the city. The man was serious. He offered to donate a huge tract of land if we could initiate a mechanism to facilitate a housing project for the poor people of Palawan. My friend, Helen Bartholomew, and I accepted his offer and when I assumed the presidency, the offer of donation became a reality, all 13.7 hectares of it. This time, our group worked closely with the Habitat for Humanity, the prime mover of building homes. Additional financial support poured into the project, prompting me to always believe that money and support will never be a problem to a worthwhile cause.
134
Marycris was the Assistant Governor for Administration for Rotary Year 2006-2007 of RI District 3830. She served as the Assistant District Treasurer in 2005-2006 and as President of RC Makati Urdaneta in 2004-2005.
69
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
intergovernmental organization. Participants do research work on the problems of countries, take
Going once, going twice, going ...
on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, consult, and come up with possible solutions to problems.
Estelita F. Bunye It was a grand idea, to say the least. And when Sydney proposed it, I knew it would be an enduring youth and international service project. At once, we worked with the International
I
School, which gave us an idea on how to carry out can’t blame anyone for being awed with firsts.
the project. For the venue, we had to establish our contact with the World Health Organization,
It may not seem much when all you have is
which, after a short explanation, believed in the
a tenth of a second, but that is really all you need
project we were starting and offered the venue for
to go from obscurity to immortality. Nobody
free.
teaches schoolchildren the names of people who created the second telephone, the second Post-it,
The Equitable Group, one of my suppliers,
or the second polio vaccine. Nobody publishes a
also pledged to lend us computers and printers for
Guinness Book of the World’s Second-Placers.
the first MUN conference we were holding. With the support of our friends, we were able to pull it
It’s even been said that bronze medalists
off with little, nay nil, seed money.
feel better than silver laureates, for as the former rejoices in snatching the last plum, the latter
This year, MUN is holding its 10th year, and
languishes in the thought of what could have been.
the project is being contemplated as a compulsory
70
133
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
We knew how projects abound here and there, but it was continuity and stability that our team was set to achieve
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
person being groomed to
Records are prerequisites for recognition, if you go
be the next leader suddenly
by the rules of the world.
resigned. Coming from an embattled group, I had
Towards the end of my second stint as the
nothing in mind but to
President of my club, I was offered to man the
finish my term right away.
helm again for the following Rotary year. A third straight term, said some of my friends, has never
But
knowing
the
been held by any Rotary club president. They even
of
service
and
cited their research, mostly from Internet sources,
brand
dedication Rotary Club espouses, I wanted to finish
to back up their claim.
my term with concrete projects that can be carried on by future generations. We knew how projects
And it would have been
abound here and there, but it was continuity and
a record, they said. A first, and
Being club
stability that our team was set to achieve.
not a bad one too. Being club
president requires at the very least a commitment to hard work
president requires at the very I was fortunate to have good friends to help
least a commitment to hard
me out during my term. Sydney Bates, who would
work, which is why to do that
later become president herself, had this consuming
for three straight years is a
passion to institute the Model United Nations
legitimate claim to fame.
project, whose potentials I saw. But for some reason it didn’t sound like an Model United Nations or Model UN
incentive to me.
simulates the United Nations, aiming to educate student-participants about global issues. Here,
I joined the Rotary Club of Muntinlupa in
students take on roles as foreign diplomats and
August 2000, and as a regular member I enjoyed
participate
the club’s fellowships the most. It did not matter
in
a
simulated
132
session
of
an
71
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
that most of the other members were a lot older than I was.
Passion, Hard Work and Dedication
Looking back, however, I realized that my first three years in the club were rather uneventful. But things did not remain dormant for long. After
Ma. Paz King
my third year, some of our members decided to break away from our group to form a new one. This state of affairs marked the year when, beyond my wildest dreams, I was elected President of my club for the year 2004-2005—Rotary’s centennial. I thought the challenge daunting, but I took solace in Past President Becky Intal who advised me to just enjoy my term.
first step, and for me it was our President Elect Training Seminar (PETS). I walked into the PETS conference hall to find myself immersed with executives,
entrepreneurs
most fulfilling moment of your
life.”
They say that every journey begins with the
corporate
“W
hen your time comes, it will be the
and
community leaders, and I wondered where a financial planner and a cook like me could fit in.
These were the words our Charter President told me before I assumed my first major post in the Rotary Club. Those were encouraging words, I thought, from someone who had proved a lot to someone who had just begun her journey in serving.
And you would be wrong if you thought
I was not expecting the assignment. After
that seminars for people like these involved
all, I was merely a fallback president because the
72
131
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
sophisticated case studies and high-end things like
communities.
that. At this point, it is continuity that we are trying to push for, by molding new leaders who
In the PETS, the first thing the facilitators
believe in what a genuine spirit of service can
did was to divide us into teams. We did have case
achieve.
I am happy that my two grown-up
studies, but we had to do it in the form of
children, who I used to bring to sites of the projects
preparing short skits, much like grade school class
of the organization when they were younger, have
sketches. We were also asked to speak before the
causes to support and are now volunteers
whole delegation, and this was something I was not
themselves.
very comfortable with. Working in the insurance business trains you to deal with people one on one,
And if there is anything the next leaders can learn from us, I guess it is to serve with
and I found myself agonizing every time I had to take the floor.
humility, learning how to listen and understand and being a good example. It is through effective
But eventually I got used to it, and there
dialogue and good example that a true leader can
would even be times when I volunteered to do
lead the way, shift views when the truth is at stake,
introductions or narrations myself. The PETS
change the lives of many people and yes, leave a
worked wonders, especially in bonding the club
lasting legacy.
presidents for the centennial year—the centennial “classmates,” as Rotary jargon would put it. At the end of the seminar, the division into teams were merely for formality. The classmates
Jun Perez is from the Rotary Club of Parañaque Central.
were not divided in any way. We were just one
He served as District Governor of RI District 3830 for
group, a bit more ready to put ourselves at the
Rotary Year 2000-2001.
service of our clubs.
130
73
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Amidst all the hard work I had to put in, I
appreciate the Rotary Club’s
really enjoyed my centennial year. But as the end of
exchange program, where I
my first term drew near, I realized that I could use
acquired a lot of knowledge
some time out. I was about to step down when it
on how to work effectively
became clear that nobody in our club wanted to
with my team.
handle all the responsibilities that came with being Knowing
president. I couldn’t bear to leave the club hanging just like that so I became serving president for the st
the
Knowing the importance of molding the youth, my team focused on youth-related projects ...
importance of molding the
Rotary’s 101 year—an SP101 if you’re starting to like
youth, my team focused on youth-related projects
Rotarized terms.
such
as
holding
conferences
and
seminars
involving them. We also conducted medical and Jimmy Cura was the Governor then, and he
dental missions and hosted competitions that
was the same person who made my terms more
aimed to tap the talents of the young ones. This is
challenging by convincing me to be active even in
because we realized that it is through these crucial
district activities. He once said that if you become a
years of our children that the zeal for service is
Rotarian, you gain fifty friends. If you become club
assimilated well.
president, you gain 250. A district officer gains 500. Just imagine how many friends a governor would have!
My active involvement with the Rotary Club was not without sacrifice. As a businessman, there were times when I had to put the things of
I believed him. And I still do until now.
the organization before my own interests, and I
During my two years as president of my club, I did
must say I had no regrets at all, what with the sense
become rich with friends. As time went on, I found
of fulfillment one gets from giving without asking
our projects easier to do, thanks in large part to
anything in return. In fact, there have been many
these friends of mine who supported us.
instances when I get approached by a grateful stranger for the projects our team pushed in our
74
129
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
organizing church activities and heading volunteer
Governor Cura did give me some minor
groups myself. At an early age, I learned how
headaches by making me a little bit busier during
fulfilling it was to give oneself to others.
my second term, but he made up for that. At the end of my stint as SP101, he convinced our charter
I therefore had no second thoughts when a
president Resty Santos to take over.
good friend talked to me about joining the Rotary Club, explaining it as a means to reach out to the
No records were set after all. I did not set
disadvantaged. It was what I had been doing all
out to establish any. I did all I could for my club
along, I thought, and the only logical thing to do
and hopefully, I’ve set a good example for the other
was to continue it.
members.
The Rotary Club was the venue, I realized, when I went to attend one meeting. Suffice it to say that in that meeting, where social projects were on top of the agenda, I instantly felt I belonged. Soon, I found myself visiting the sites of the projects and getting myself involved in the details and not long after, I went to assume the presidency of our club. While I had been into social service practically all my life, assuming the presidency was
sustaining my members’ drive. That is why I really
Baby served two terms as President of the Rotary Club of Muntinlupa. She was also the District Committee Chairperson for Social Fellowships for Rotary Year 20062007.
128
75
a different thing altogether. As president, I had the burden of coordination with other clubs and
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Serendipity
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Public service the Rotary way
Estelita Ferrera-Brunner
Hugo Perez
I
t all started when the club I chartered on May 24, 2004, the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell,
was presented at the ballroom of the Westin Philippine Plaza.
politician-father who would unhesitatingly
accommodate
the
common
folks
in
our
community. Someone crying for help in an ungodly
Masato Kaneko was in the audience as part of the World Community Service Team from Japan. We were not introduced to each other yet at that time.
hour, rousing us from deep sleep, was a common occasion. As a public servant, my father would attend to anyone and every attended case was aweinspiring, a lesson that taught me the meaning of passion for service.
The following day, I was en route to Hong Kong while their World Community Service Team was on their way back to Japan. Fate must have worked
A
s a child, I grew up admiring my
towards
our
76
direction
when
we
I cherish those lessons as among the most important legacies of my father to me. Growing up with such a great model, I ended up getting involved in community work even in my youth,
127
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
despite her hectic schedule.
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
accidentally met at the airport.
At the end of the day, we were able to
Masato told me that he recognized me as a
gather 46 bags of blood and served 256 patients
Rotarian. He said the he could not forget my face
with free testing of cholesterol and blood sugar.
when he saw me on stage during the ceremonies,
Because of the success of the project, we are
due largely to the distinct design of our club
planning to conduct it annually and achieve our
uniform. We exchanged pleasantries and calling
vision of a healthy community.
cards and said goodbye.
We know that we can realize our goal by tapping the sense of service of the common folk,
I thought that I would never be able to see Masato again.
the same sense of service that the Rotary Club espouses among its members to push for positive
During
my
term
as
President,
Club
Presidents were asked to submit a project proposal
change in communities.
for the World Community Service project of Japan. Fortunately, our club’s proposal was one of those approved. We were overjoyed since our club has just been chartered that time. This shall fund our very first big project, we agreed. When Hiro Oba, the coordinator of Japan projects in our District, presented to me the Memorandum of Agreement for the project, I told Lyn served as President of the Rotary Club of Narra Central. She works as a government municipal officer at the Narra Municipal Hospital in Palawan.
him that the signatory’s name on the MOA looked
126
77
very familiar. So I checked all my calling cards. To my surprise, the signature belonged to the Japanese
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Gymnasium, where we held the project. There, we
who I met at the airport.
saw uniformed soldiers, police, local government I was finally able to meet once more with
employees and civilians in one venue getting along
WCS representative, Masato Kaneko, when the
well with one another for the common objective of
sponsoring Japanese Rotary Club of Noogata visited
donating blood and in the rather literal sense,
to sign the MOA and to check the project site.
share one’s life.
He expressed to me his happiness, saying that of all the project proposals he received, he had quite an affinity with our project called “Water for Life,” which gears to construct water systems in three locations in Tarlac. He said that he was not aware that I was the one who submitted the proposal that their club approved.
… we tell people our story… how two Rotary Clubs love and care for each other as friends, despite the distance, language barrier, and cultural differences
During
the
Water
Project.”
Masato told me that he always gets teary-eyed when he recalls the serendipity of how we met and what transpired after. Since then, the Rotary Club of Noogata has been helping
78
the same venue, a symposium on lifestyle diseases was also conducted to promote right living among the participants. A healthy lunch was also served for everyone to set off resolutions of participants
centennial
award for “Innovativeness and Impact
free cholesterol count and blood sugar testing. In
about eating a balanced diet.
year, our joint project won an High
Aside from the bloodletting, we also had
The response of the people to our project was overwhelming. We even had to extend our activity for hours
to
accommodate
everyone. We also had the local government to thank for its full support of the project. Our very own mayor Lucy Demaala, a Rotarian herself, also came to donate blood
125
We know that we can realize our goal by tapping the sense of service of the common folk ...
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Right from the start, I have been nurturing a great faith to the values espoused by the Rotary
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
us. We have built two Gawad Kalinga houses last year and held medical missions together.
Club among its members—values that can be On
summed up with the slogan, Service above Self.
something
October
2006,
heartwarming
we
experienced
and
memorable.
When I was assigned to be lead president of
Members of the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell
our chapter in Narra, Palawan, I immediately
attended Noogata club’s 50th Charter anniversary in
proposed projects that would focus on public
Japan, where we were treated like royalties. We will
health. And after many sessions of planning and
never forget that day when they brought us to the
studying of possible activities, our chapter finally
train station as we were en route to Tokyo. They
came up with a day of bloodletting and free
made sure that we had food while in transit and
medical tests under the program we dubbed as
they even brought our heavy bags. We all could not
“Dugo Ko, Puso Mo, Sagip Buhay Project” last
help but shed tears as we left.
August 29, 2006.
It
We began the day with “Takbo para Makalingap ng Dugo para sa Tao,” a 200-meter fun run participated in by 30 members of the Interact Club of RC Narra Central. It was a great start to set
campaign. We mobilized physicians and Red Cross volunteers to join us with our objective and people
been
three
since
that
we tell people our story—how two Rotary Clubs love and care for each other as friends, despite the distance, language barrier, and cultural differences. We never forget to say that it all started in Rotary. Litay served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell for Rotary Year 2004-2005. In Rotary Year 2006-2007, she was the Chairperson of the Group Study Exchange Inbound Housing from California.
from all walks of life trooped to the RVM
124
years
experience but whenever there is an opportunity,
the atmosphere of healthy living we were trying to promote in our community, serving as a powerful
has
79
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Extra small club, extra big hearts
Sharing blood, saving lives
Yolanda C. Tan
J
ust like any organization, our club has had its share of ups and downs.
Ma. Arlin Josue
A
s a physician working in the public sector, I have developed a soft spot for issues that
relate to community health. After all, saving lives is What amazes me until now was how the remaining
officers
grouped
together
and
what doctors do for a living. Social concern comes from within us in a rather natural way.
collectively agreed upon one thing: there was a need to strengthen the club and to show the
While that is a great outlook in itself, I
District, if not Rotary International, that together
knew it was not enough because I realized I had to
we can withstand anything.
channel this social concern to concrete efforts to positively affect my community in any way
This incident gave me the courage and strength to know that whatever happens, we can
possible. That was why I eventually joined the Rotary Club.
weather it out.
80
123
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
solicit donations for the school’s Internet access
It still amazes me to look back on how we
and computer equipment. Moreover, we also held
were able to pool together whatever resources we
medical missions and health awareness programs.
had to reach out to our brothers and sisters in need. This became apparent with the series of
In the short period that I have been in the organization, it has been easy to see what brings
calamities which greatly affected several parts of our country in 2006.
together people from all walks of life and professions in the Rotary Club. It is love for service.
I can still vividly recall those moments
It is about changing the lives of other people for
when I asked the members for contributions that
the better. It is about making a dent in society. All
will be used to help the victims. I was so moved by
of these things, without expecting anything in
their generosity. We acquired 100 blankets and
return.
some tarpaulin banners that were to be converted into roofs of tents. We had these materials shipped to Bicol through a classmate involved in bus operations. It was the least we could do for the victims. The spirit of service also drove the club to reach out to a school that badly needed help with its potable water supply. Pilar Village School, which is near our club, has for some time then experienced a discoloration in the water that comes out from its pumps. No disease has been
Alice is with the Rotary Club of Taguig West. She serves as one of the vocational service directors, in which capacity, she organized a number of literacy projects.
reported since the appearance of the discoloration
122
81
but students were still wary of it. This is why students had to buy treated water, which is quite
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
costly for them, whenever they got thirsty during
age,” so to speak, having my turn at inviting a
school hours.
friend to join a noble cause.
We decided that there was a need to install
When the term of the year’s officers came
a water filtration system inside the school. I was
to a close, I was overwhelmed with being awarded
the club’s treasurer before so I knew that such
as the “Rookie of the Year.” And as the new set of
proposition would require a large investment.
officers was inducted for the coming year, I became one of the directors assigned in the Vocational
But I did not mind that problem. I knew
Service working as its Program Chairman. It was a
that the benefits of the project will outweigh all the
tall order, and while I had my share of anxieties as
headaches that we had to endure in order to get it
to how I would be able to pull it off, I knew
going. With some luck, we were able to get the
everything would be all right especially because I
needed money to put up the system.
was working with a reliable team.
Right now, students of the school need not
As Vocational Service Director, I became on
spend money in order to have safe drinking water.
top of several literacy programs, the most
As the saying goes, "Safe water saves young lives,"
memorable of which was the Adopt-a-School
and these lives include the 2500
project that sought to aid slow learners at the
I have
students of Pilar Village School.
Western Bicutan National High School. We held
always believed that doing service for others makes one feel young
Knowing that our club had done
free tutorials and while we realized that the
this gives us incomparable joy.
country’s
education
problem
was
more
complicated than we thought, we were happy to be I have always believed that
doing something about it in our own little way.
doing service for others makes one feel young. I admit that there may
Aside from the tutorials, we also looked for
be stress, but the help we gave to
funding of scholarships for deserving students and
82
121
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I realized how people with a passion to serve really find themselves flocking together
I soon found myself
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Pilar Village School was really a different story. The
trainings
stress I felt was the result of the club's desire for
and meetings until finally
the betterment of others and not for the pursuit of
being inducted in January
my own interests. I learned that when I forget
2006. I remember very well
about myself for other people, I gain more out of
how as “young” as I was in the
life.
attending
several
organization, I was assigned to remind fellow members of
I try to share this learning with my club
their attendance, a task I earned most probably
members. The bond that we share keeps growing
because despite my busy schedule, I myself did not
with each passing day. No task or challenge is ever
miss any meeting.
too little or too great that collectively we cannot overcome together. Despite the limited resources
While I was just practically “new,” I never had a problem dealing with my fellow members
we have, we can consider ourselves at par, if not better, than the other clubs in the district.
because of their warm welcome. Moreover, I have had the chance to work with many of them in some
Our club may be considered extra small in
social outreach projects. In a special kind of way,
size, but we more than make up for it with our
too, I realized how people with a passion to serve
extra big hearts.
really find themselves flocking together—and in the Rotary Club. Came March 2006, I was surprised to be assigned to be a part of a major activity as a
someone to join the club. It was my “coming of
Yolly served as President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas West for Rotary Year 2006-2007. The youngest of seven children, she once dreamed of becoming a Filipino teacher.
120
83
marshal. I gained new friends in the major event we hosted and was also soon able to sponsor
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
O
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Of treasures
The rookie
Jaime A. Cura
Alice Lucas
rdinary people like me are sometimes awed by the amount of money that
I
have only been in the Rotary Club for barely two years now, but I always find myself
Rotary is able to tap for its projects. One of my first
struggling for the right terms to describe how
impressions was that Rotarians are generally
fulfilling such a short period has been.
expected to dip into their pockets for just about every activity or project they undertake. For people
It was November 2005 when a friend of a
who don’t have deep pockets or fat bankbooks, this
friend talked to me about joining the organization.
could be worrisome. They are impressed by what
The person who invited me was assertive with what
Rotary does, but feel inadequate about being part
he was offering to me, knowing it was a noble
of it. Thus, they shy away from joining Rotary.
undertaking he was giving me a chance to be a part of. While I had my doubts about committing
But treasure need not consist only of
myself to the club at first, I could not deny the fact
money. Time is also treasure. So, too, is talent.
that over such a small talk, I sensed his earnestness
When combined and used well, these forms of
and was impressed by it.
84
119
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
easy, and it may even hurt. But I have seen this in
treasure can produce powerful networks of friends
many Rotarians, and I wish to see it in many
that can get the job done without necessarily
others. To be a Rotarian is to be a role model of
tagging each friend with monetary contributions.
integrity,
When we pool our resources, the synergy is
professionalism,
and
high
ethical
amazing!
principles.
I discovered this when I was Club President some 22 years ago. My club was doing youth service in a public school which was housed in a cramped tenement building. The scarce classrooms were hot and noisy with more than a hundred students each. Many students literally waited under the shade of a clump of trees just outside the building for their turn to sit inside the classrooms. When it rained, they had to scamper somewhere else and miss their classes for the day. Surely, not much learning could take place in such circumstances. Not too far away from the tenement building was a sprawling public food terminal complex. It contained rows and rows of large stalls Carmen is currently in the Philippine Senate as DirectorGeneral of the Office of International Relations and Protocol. She was President of the Rotary Club of Makati EDSA for Rotary Year 2006-2007.
industrial tenants. Huge catwalks interconnected
118
85
which were leased as factories by agribusiness and these rows of stalls. The catwalks were as large as
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
entire hallways of average-sized buildings. These
vehicle for a person to fulfill his or her social
were usually empty or merely used as storage for
responsibilities. Its members were part of a good
discarded office paraphernalia and other forms of
network, and it really was just a matter of taking
trash.
the club’s mission to heart. We befriended the administrators of the
I had to become president before I
complex. We talked to them about our youth
understood the Four-Way Test.
service plans and projects. We called their
disappointment I also realized that not all
attention to the deplorable situation of the public
Rotarians practice it. Rotarians often use the term
high school nearby. We suggested a partnership.
“rotarized” to describe that process of a member’s
We could clean up the catwalks and the premises
integration into the Rotary. Many people I know
for free and build temporary classrooms and offices
would use it as casually as you and I would
at no cost to them. Would they lease the catwalks
mention cars. But when I ask what they mean
to us at a friendly price?
when
they
say
that
someone
And to my
has
become
“rotarized,” I am usually met with silence. Is one They did at one peso a year.
finally
“rotarized”
when
he/she
has
already
established connections for his/her respective We mobilized volunteer work groups of Rotarians, students, and faculty. We solicited
businesses, or when he/she has made enough friends?
I believe that
donations of plywood, varnish, paint, second-hand furniture, books, and other items that could be
We should not forget
useful to the students and teachers. From late
that the spirit of the Rotary
August to early November, volunteers quietly
is
worked on the project well into the night. By mid-
believe that serving above
November, neat-looking classrooms had taken
oneself can only be achieved
shape, the principal got a new office, the faculty
by giving oneself. It is not
86
Service
Above
Self.
117
I
serving above oneself can only be achieved by giving oneself. It is not easy, and it may even hurt
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
I had to reassess my priorities and invest time into my new task. I had to fashion a new brand of activism
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
I have always been an activist,
their own faculty lounge, and the librarian a more
conscious
spacious library.
of
the
social
responsibility each human being should have. I had unforgettable
On the 8th of December, the students and
memories as an activist but all of
faculty, with everyone in attendance, took part in a
it is nothing compared to being
touching early morning flag-raising ceremony on
president of a club of which I
their new but temporary campus. Not a few were in
have
nominal
tears as they sang the national anthem. The
member. And so, I had to
principal broke down when she delivered her brief
reassess my priorities and invest
address of welcome to the students.
been
just
a
time into my new task. I had to fashion a new The school did not have to stay too long in
brand of activism.
the temporary, makeshift, but livable and new I was determined not to let the club’s
campus building. The project got the attention of
projects deteriorate into cosmetics, so I resolved to
the Department of Education. Not long after, the
make time for the Rotary’s activities. When I had to
high school was finally transferred to a permanent
go abroad, I would spend an extra couple of hours
campus of its own, with new
every night to set straight the club’s agenda for the
buildings,
meetings I could not attend. I would also include
and healthier surroundings.
better
equipment,
pertinent information regarding the activities of How
the district to which our club belongs, especially those of greatest concern for our club.
much
did
this
project cost the Rotary club? Not even a tenth of a million
Being president did demand sacrifice, but
pesos.
after a while I began to enjoy it, mainly because I realized that the Rotary is indeed an excellent
116
After 28 years in the
87
The secret is being personally involved, and realizing that no matter how small you are, you can help change the world one step at a time
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Rotary, I sometimes ask myself, why do we meet
But I soon realized that prying into the
every week? Why do we go to poor towns? Why do
Four-Way Test involved hours of meetings and
we donate to Africa? Why do the rich countries
getting acquainted with your club mates, of going
keep on helping us?
out of your way and redesigning an already hectic schedule. I was simply too busy to invest time into
After 28 years, I have never missed a single
it, and I didn’t get immersed that soon.
Rotary weekly meeting. It has been, and still is, a gradual discovery of my self and others. The secret,
That was my story until one day in April
as I later found out in my Rotary service, is being
2005. Ms. Malou Maligaya, the President Elect of
personally involved, and realizing that no matter
Makati EDSA for that year, invited me to discuss
how small you are, you can help change the world
matters related to the Inner Wheel Club, a group
one step at a time.
composed of the wives of the male Rotarians– “Rotary-Annes” as Rotary jargon would put it. As we met at the venue, I noticed that there were far more people attending than I expected. It was only after we had all settled down when I was told the real purpose of the gathering: they wanted me to be president for the Rotary Year 2006-2007. And so I became President Elect of the Rotary Club of Makati EDSA in 2006. Since then, I knew that I had to change the way I have been living as a Rotarian.
Jimmy Cura is from the Rotary Club of Rizal West. He served as District Governor of RI District 3830 for Rotary Year 2005-2006.
88
I was an UPSCAn (University of
the
Philippines Student Catholic Action) in college, but
115
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
One wheelchair, one life, one perspective
Caught by the Four-Way Test
Federico P. Sapitan
Carmen Razon-Arceno
I
joined the Rotary in 2000, though I hardly knew the club. It was mainly to honor the
persistent invitation of a good friend, and to satisfy a curiosity that has been growing in me ever since I first took notice of the organization’s Four-Way Test.
T
he look on the face of each member of our delegation was very revealing.
The airport in Vancouver was but an eighteen-hour old memory in our minds, and so were the comforts and conveniences of first-world
My work demanded that I travel around the country, and during my trips I would see these examining questions painted everywhere: on a street sign, or on the railings of a footbridge perhaps. I wondered what they meant, and joining the group seemed to be a good way of finding out.
living. But a mild culture shock still dowsed us out of our long, cold sleep. It was 5:30 in the morning, and the twelvemember team from Red Deer East had just landed in Manila. Proceeding
114
from
89
the
Customs
and
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Immigration, we were led to a warm reception
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
the club.
from a contingent of Rotarians from Las Piñas Camino Real, Red Deer East’s sister club.
Because in the end, people may not remember me as president, but they certainly will
Handshakes, introductions, photographs—
remember the Rotary.
euphoria was the order of the day, and the brightly emblazoned banner that welcomed us marked off an island of excited Rotarians from the rest of the people in the airport lobby. It took us an hour to get ourselves harnessed to vehicles that drove us to Las Piñas, some twelve kilometers south of the airport. Normally, a trip that covered such a distance was over in a few dozen blinks, but that one was a onehour cariñosa with bad traffic. It became obvious that most of us weren’t used to driving through streets that betrayed the millions going hungry, and the multitudes writhing for life every day. Amazement clutched our faces as the city embraced our convoy in her frayed arms. The Rotarians from Red Deer East went all this way to the Philippines to complete the Filipino-Canadian team that would personally
90
Bing served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati Jose P. Rizal for Rotary Year 2006-2007. As her term ends, she looks forward to going back to playing badminton, walking and shopping, and more time for her company and her ministry work.
113
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
Each time, he dragged
… giving up was never on my agenda ... I wanted to finish my term and carry the flag of the club, come what may
himself up and continued to
administer
the
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
handing
over
of
280
new
wheelchairs to those in need of mobility.
run, bleeding and grimacing in agony. His feat dazzled the
As sister clubs, Red Deer East and Las Piñas
audience who then started to
Camino Real often had joint programs like this one.
focus
him.
These projects include the beginnings of a micro-
Despite knowing that he won’t
credit financing establishment in the clubs’
be able to beat the other
adopted community, and a bakery that the people
sprinters, Akwari still went on
themselves will run.
their
eyes
on
to reach the finish line. He got a well-deserved applause from
The wheelchair distribution project took place in March 2006, and lasted for two and a half
the crowd.
weeks, which became more taxing—and more When
asked by the media why he
rewarding—toward the final stretches.
continued the race, he humbly replied, “My country did not send me 9,000 miles to start the race. They sent me 9,000 miles to finish the race.”
The first round of wheelchair distributions began after five days of cultural tours and club visits. About five wheelchairs were given out. We
Like Akwari, giving up was never on my
started questioning ourselves if we would really see
agenda. You only become president once, as they
the faces of the recipients and share in their joy as
all say, so why give up? I wanted to finish my term
we lift them onto their new wheelchairs.
and carry the flag of the club, come what may. But the whole thing did gain momentum, of
and after some time we found ourselves working
achievement and fulfillment after all these are
16-hour days. A typical day involved making brief
through, what matters foremost is the interest of
speeches, unpacking and assembling, putting up
112
91
More
than
my
personal
sense
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
banners, writing out placards, calling the names of As President, I focused on the goal, on
the recipients and so on.
getting things done, despite the odds. Pleasing There were just so many things that had to
everyone simply wasn’t an option. Individual desires had to be subsumed under the interest of
be attended to.
the club. And even if it meant personally doing the tasks of those not around just to get the job done,
"Who has the box cutter?"
that’s exactly what I did. I ran the extra mile. "The media people would like to talk with Service in the Rotary did take its toll on my
someone."
own personal and professional life. Since I had to be present whenever a Rotary activity is held, that
"Are there 18-inch wheelchairs left?"
meant less time for my company. I also didn’t have Activity disguises chaos, and the racket
time for the things I usually do, such as badminton and walking.
scatters everyone. But then something made
She
time stop during that work hour.
looked up at us as we sidled up to her. She said thank you
The clamor halted and the din
Sometimes I wonder, why am I doing all these?
was hushed. Then I remember John Stephen Akwari, a their
Tanzanian athlete who joined the Olympic Games
attention focused on an elderly
held in Mexico in 1968. While all spectators were
lady, dressed in pink and white. She was crying. In
cheering, looking at the finish line as almost every
the midst of all the commotion, she was trying to
athlete had passed, there was this guy who fell to
thank her benefactors for her new bright red
the ground many times.
Everyone
had
wheelchair. She looked up at us as we sidled up to
92
111
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
This figuratively and aptly describes my
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
her. She said thank you.
term as President in the Rotary Club of Makati Jose P. Rizal. After fourteen years as a member, nothing prepared me for the job.
Someone had to translate the other things she was saying. The lady, as it turned out, had not been out of her home for over a year because she's
Becoming President, to begin with, was
crippled. The moment brought tears to many, and
never on my mind when I first joined the club.
reminded us of what our work meant as we went
Invited by my best friend, I was there for
back into minding the mechanical and repetitive
fellowship. I looked forward to spending dinners
little jobs that the whole project demanded of each
and lunches with new-found friends, with whom I
of us.
can hopefully develop lasting ties. Once, in front of a large crowd, we told the But I would later learn that one way of
recipients and their caregivers that the wheelchairs
deepening my bond with my friends in the Rotary
were “a gift from God and from our hearts.” Within
is
down
the next two days we would hear the following
nominations to become President year in year out,
story, and we would realize the full extent of what
I finally obliged, seeing that I was the last in my
we had just said.
through
service.
So
after
turning
Ever
generation who had yet to serve. On that same day a Running a club, however, turned out to be
member of our team delivered
far more challenging than running my own
a wheelchair to the house of a
company. Since Rotary members are essentially
90-year-old
volunteers, compulsion is out of the picture. There
been confined to her bed for
are times when some members wanted things done
over three years.
lady.
She had
their way. There are also times when, despite well laid-out plans, those in charge didn’t show up.
110
The next day, which
93
since her confinement she had wanted to attend Mass, but was not able to. Finally her dreams had turned into reality ...
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
was a Sunday, she was lifted onto her new wheelchair, enabling her to fulfill a dream, a dream she had pondered over for three long years.
Race to the finish Elvira H. Villania
Ever since her confinement she had wanted to attend Mass, but was not able to. Finally her dreams had turned into reality, simply because someone cared enough to obtain a wheelchair for her, deliver it to her, look into her eyes and tell her that she is valued as a person. After the celebration, she went back home, and into her bed, perhaps at peace. She died the following day.
N
othing is as spectacular and breath-taking as the quest for the track and field gold in
the Olympics.
*** Las Piñas Camino Real belongs to District
With the level of competition at its peak,
3830 of Rotary, which encompasses a large part of
each athlete must undergo a series of rigorous and
Metro Manila. It also has jurisdiction over Rotary
consistent
activities in Palawan, some 500 miles south of
psychological and even spiritual conditioning—all
Manila.
these are crucial in bringing out the best
training.
Physical,
emotional,
performance in any type of sports competition. As After some days of working in Manila, we were asked if we wanted to go to Boracay (a famous
the pressure heats up, stability and endurance are put to the final test—on the day of the event.
tourist attraction) to relax, but all of us chose to go
94
109
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
misfortune, you meet an accident (God forbid), you
to Palawan, where we could distribute more
know whom to call. In my case, unfortunately, it
wheelchairs, particularly in the more remote
was an accident not even Dr. Rotary can remedy.
corners of the island.
But what a fortunate accident it turned out to be. I think that most of us thought that we were making some sort of heroic sacrifice, but Palawan turned out to be every bit of a paradise as Boracay, with its beaches of white sand and its many nature parks. Of course, we were all aware that helping people was our priority. We started distributing wheelchairs as soon as we got there. An 11-year old boy with no control of his arms or legs was lifted into his new wheelchair. His name was Romanez, and he has spent most of his life lying on the floor on a bright blue plastic mattress. But now he was free to be taken to church, or to the town center, or to somewhere else on this beautiful island!
Ric served as President of the Rotary Club of ParaĂąaque East for Rotary Year 2006-2007. He and his wife, Techie, are expecting their third child by Christmas 2007.
108
*** Political turmoil is prevalent in this nation. The traffic is one of the world’s worst. Almost every
95
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
body of water within and around Metro Manila is
In our own community in Parañaque, Dr.
already polluted. Some people live in the most
Rotary has created a tremendous impact. Aside
inhuman conditions—under bridges, tucked into
from a stationary clinic that we set up in our
street corners, on the railway tracks, in garbage
community center in Barangay Moonwalk, Dr.
dumps. There are waiting lists for children to
Rotary was envisioned to be a mobile medical van
attend school. Most will never attend.
with basic medical equipment for x-ray, ECG, dental check-up and a laboratory for blood, urine,
Why would anyone return to a country
stool and other tests.
where hardship is so widespread? We have so far generated critical start-up The answer would be the Filipino people.
support from Governor Butch Francisco who
They are men and women who do not give up
donated an ambulance. We also teamed up with
hope, who do not quit trying, who accept each day
RC Makati to purchase an ECG machine and some
as it comes, who never quit smiling, and who will
laboratory accessories.
do everything for the people they love. A lot more needs to be done and even more They are people who say things and mean
can be done by Dr. Rotary. I can only hope that the
it. “Please come back” means “please come back.”
enthusiasm for this project will continue to
“What can I do for you?” means “what can I do for
flourish.
you?” “Can I help you?” means “can I help you?” Dr. Rotary is one project I am truly proud Most of all, we have learned a lot from these wonderful people. They hope and carry on
of. It is one of the things that fuel my desire to serve, despite the difficulties.
because they stick together, and support one another.
So if you happen to be sick or, by some
96
107
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
around the world.
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Their smiles are a sight to behold. It is inspiring to know that their faith and their loved
The object of the ascribing the name Dr. Rotary is to command recall, permanency and
ones are all that they may have, and yet they still remain happy.
continuity. It would serve as a rallying point or a battle cry, and would do well as a marketing tool. It follows a triangular approach in community service: the Rotary Club as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO)—convenor and propagator of community works; the Local Government Unit (LGU)—as logistical partner; and the Private
The story comes from an account by Neil Swensrude, Past President of the Rotary Club of Red Deer East of Calgary, Canada, and from details supplied by Fed Sapitan, Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas Camino Real at the time of this joint project between the sister clubs.
Sector—private businesses partnering their own brand to complement Dr. Rotary events in the service of the community. To date, Dr. Rotary has attracted a lot of attention not only in District 3830 and other districts in the Philippines but also in Rotary International and other Rotary Districts abroad. A Rotary Club in Alaska at Homer-Kachemak Bay District is trying to lobby Rotary International to recognize Dr. Rotary internationally through its Rotary Action Group (RAG) Health Fair Project (HFP). This is being spearheaded by Past District Governor Steve Yoshida.
106
Fed served as President of the Rotary Club of Las Piñas Camino Real. He was District Coordinator for Operations in Metro South and for Membership for Rotary Year 2006-2007.
97
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
Rotary Club of Parañaque East. There was no turning back.
Beyond borders Ma. Adelica B. Villavicencio
Aware of the enormity of the challenges facing the presidency, I started preparing for the job early. I formed my planning team eight months before my term. I presented my general program concept seven months before, had my eight-page glossy flagship project brochure printed six months before, had fund raising five months before, and
I
had my team building two months before my t started as a simple idea, from thousands of miles away.
presidency. I thought I couldn’t be more prepared. Was I wrong! When my term started, I
In October 1990, Tony Quinlivan, then an incoming President of the Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga-Kooringal in New South Wales, Australia, thought of putting up a cross in towns and cities across the globe to serve as a reminder of the importance of peace in today’s troubled world. With the help of Rotary International, the support of world leaders and the inspiration of the late Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa, the idea caught on. From a cross, the symbol evolved to that
98
found it really hard and emotionally-wrecking. I should say that the saving grace of the presidency is the presence of warm bodies of fellow Rotarians during each event, fellowship and meeting; plus, the opportunity to introduce projects that could help improve other people’s lives. One of the projects I was fortunate to introduce is Dr. Rotary. It was the first time in the world of Rotary that a community medical program would have a human face as well as a brand name that shall carry all and future medical programs
105
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
series of meetings with the council, the two
of a dove on top of the world, to signify that the
gentlemen agreed to simultaneously withdraw
initiative
from the nomination. The
It was as
council was thus given a free
if they were saying: “No, we are not asking you to accept it, we are vesting you with the pride and honor of serving…”
hand in choosing the next
crossed
all
political
and
religious
boundaries. On February 23, 1993, on the occasion of the Rotary World Understanding and Peace Day,
president nominee.
the first Peace Monument was unveiled and Wagga And so the next honored nominee everyone’s
was
called.
horror,
To
Wagga was declared the first Peace City in the World.
each
president received from him
I came across this project while searching
The
on the Internet for worthwhile activities for our
nominee then rattled off a
club. The year was 1998 and I was then the
million reasons: from time to
President of the Rotary Club of Makati San
an
emphatic
“No.”
business to family, to family to business to time.
Lorenzo. The moment I saw it, I just knew this was one initiative too good to pass upon.
But to the horror of the nominee, his “No” was drowned out by a resounding “Yes!” Each
I communicated with Past President George
council member confirmed that “Yes! You are the
Little, Ambassador for Promotion of Peace City all
new President Nominee, the time for you to serve
over the world, and I was given all the necessary
the community has come!” It was as if they were
information about it. I then discussed it with my
saying: “No, we are not asking you to accept it, we
Governor, Sonny Coloma, and the rest, as they say,
are vesting you with the pride and honor of serving
is history.
others, period.” The Makati Park and Garden is the site Suddenly, I found myself heading the
104
where we built the Peace Monument. On February
99
DRIVING THE WHEEL
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
23, 1999, Makati was declared a Rotary Peace City, the third such city in the Philippines. Today, Makati is among sixty cities worldwide who are part of this project.
Dr. Rotary is in Ricardo L. Santiago
PEACE is actually an acronym for the five sectors in society whose good work the initiative intends to support. P is for police, city officials and government. E stands for educators. A is for Armed Forces of the Philippines while C is for civic communities, and E for environmentalists. As an innovation, our club introduced the awarding of the annual Rotary Peace Award to
I
became president by accident.
ardent advocates of peace and unity in our country.
A miscommunication took place in the
Our very first awardee was President Corazon C.
choice of a president-nominee in our club. As was
Aquino in 1999 followed by President Fidel V.
the tradition, the council of Past Presidents was
Ramos and Jaime Cardinal Sin in 2000 and 2001
supposed to honor the future president by offering
respectively.
their
him/her a nomination. In this case, as if indicative
contributions in the 1986 EDSA People Power
of the gravity of the job that lay ahead, a
Revolution which restored democracy in the
nomination was offered not just to one but to two
country.
potential honorees!
They
were
honored
for
General Angelo Reyes and Ricardo Cardinal Vidal
shared
the
award
in
2002.
For
her
In the interest of preserving the dignity, friendship and harmony in the club, and after a
environmental initiatives, Ms. Gina Lopez was
100
103
(A)MUSINGS in the Life of a Rotarian
DRIVING THE WHEEL
|
Musings in the life of a Rotarian
boundaries, reaching out, touching and inspiring
given the award in 2003. In 2004 and 2005, we
lives.
recognized Fr. James Reuter's accomplishments as an educator and Ms. Rosa Rosal’s contributions in the Red Cross. Other
awardees
include
Fr.
Rocky
Evangelista in 2006, for his work in Tulay sa Don Bosco Street Children Foundation, which aims to uplift the lives of children. Most recently, we gave the award to Sr. Pilar Versoza for her work in ProLife. What struck me and what continues to amaze me to this day is the universality of the aspiration to achieve peace and unity. People from different
races,
situated
hundreds of miles apart,
It is
share
heartwarming to be able to share ... It transcends all barriers ...
one
goal:
the
promotion of lasting peace through
fellowship,
international understanding and goodwill. Maridel served as President of the Rotary Club of Makati San Lorenzo for Rotary Year 1998-1999. She has relinquished the management of her food business to her children and now spends most of her time on volunteer work in Rotary.
102
It is heartwarming to be able to share and spread the light of peace not only in our country but globally. It transcends all barriers and
101