The 3810- January+February 2021

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

IN this ISSUE Features Category is: Transforming Lives!

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Chinese Horoscopes for All Zodiac Signs in 2021

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EDSA: More Than Just a Busy Street

Events |09| From a Plot of Land, into a Garden of Possibilities

|11| Share a Gift, Light a Home

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|11| We Care (Mental Health Problem)

Ano ang Hawak Mo?

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|16| Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

Fortune Word Hunt

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|17| Titos and Titas of Hallyu:

“Orgs” to Partner with for Your Next Livelihood Project

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Different Styles & Tips to Celebrate Valentine’s Day The Joys of Being Single

Induction Ceremony

The 6th Charter Annivery Celebration of RAC MS 198

|17| RAC RCDM Scholars Updates and

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Accomplishments Presentation with Rotary Club of Downtown Manila

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|18| Fellowship Photos

Love Because of & Despite of Rotaract& Rotary

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Knowing Yourself: Tips to Skill-Building Building Your Solitude

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Art and the Pursuit of Happiness

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The Flame of Passion

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The 3810 HEART

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|28| RAC n Learn: Enabling the Professional in You

Category is: Transforming Lives!

by DRAR Gia Ciriaco Rotaract Club of Pasay Cyber City

Whenever January arrives, it means we are halfway through the Rotary year! It is time for the much awaited Mid-Year Review. Every President gets to present their accomplishments for the first half of the year and get to share what they look forward to achieving on the next half. This also gives them an opportunity to learn from esteemed panelists composed of experienced Rotaractors and Rotarians and take in valuable best practices.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

Whenever January arrives, it means we are halfway through the Rotary year! It is time for the much awaited Mid-Year Review. Every President gets to present their accomplishments for the first half of the year and get to share what they look forward to achieving on the next half. This also gives them an opportunity to learn from esteemed panelists composed of experienced Rotaractors and Rotarians and take in valuable best practices.

The Mid-Year review happened last January 23, a bright Saturday and for the first time ever, it was done via Zoom on a break room format. Shifting to a virtual environment seemed like a daunting task but the Rotaract District Committee, headed by project chairs DRAR Marj Madrigal, Publications Dir. Audie Laudencia and DRAR Gia CIriaco, pulled off a seamless and user- friendly virtual environment that enabled the Presidents to present their reports and interact with the panelists.

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leaders of neighboring Philippine districts.

Representing District 3810 were DCC Juanito Boy Kaw of RC Bagumbayan Manila, PP Kenneth Jamandre of RC Metro Escolta, PDRR Candy Martino of RAC Manila and IPDRR Erica Paywan-Florendo of RAC San Antonio de Padua. Leaders from other districts were CP Mhon Brazas of RC San Pedro Magic (3820), MDIO Chair-Elect MJ Franco of RAC Calumpit (3770), PDRR Patrick Hermoso of RAC Balintawak (3780) and IPDRR Elyrose Naorbe of RAC Metro Iloilo (3850). These leaders were also tasked to score every presenter based on their Club Goals (goals set start of the Rotary Year), Accomplishment Report (projects accomplished to support the goals) and Looking Back and Looking Forward (opportunities to work on).

31 Transformational Presidents successfully presented their Mid-Year reports and were able to leave every session with a renewed sense of motivation, drive and confidence to face the next half of the year.

People born in the Year of the Ox

Chinese Horoscopes for All Zodiac Signs in 2021

by Al Gaw Rotaract Club of Manila

People born in the Year of the Rat Rat will be quite happy and relaxed in the year 2021 of the Metal Ox. This period will be successful for him if he will be optimistic and bold in his actions. Rat has a rare ability of coming out dry from the water, the first to feel danger, and therefore he is better than the other zodiac signs in adapting to rapidly changing affairs and responding to unexpected problems. Rat must remember that the year 2021 requires activeness from him and not fussiness, he should gradually get rid of his impulsive activities, move to smoother and more peaceful methods of work.

Rat's impulsiveness may lead to many problems even in relationships that may seem ideal at first glance.

Single Rats will have the chance to meet their love in the second half of 2021 - this period is more favorable for development of relations and will be a good time for romantic encounters. He needs to be concerned about his own poorly thought-out decisions and spontaneous actions.

Bull (Ox) in 2021 will feel the stress of business affairs, but such prospects that he never dreamed of will immediately open. Hard work does not scare a representative of this zodiac sign, dedication, and perseverance to follow his line of conduct would be enough. Bull will see some difficulties in early 2021 as impregnable, but under a certain activeness, they can easily succumb and crumble to dust, freeing up the road.

Bull should not seek solely to self-enrichment and acquisition of luxury - for him, is much more important to develop flexible work tactics and methods for efficient conduct of business, because the beginning of the year 2021 is the best time to start very important and innovative projects.

For the Bull, the year 2021 is favorable for the development of relations - if the Bull will not be too busy at work. Most of the trouble in a relationship that may arise are often caused by Bull's changing mood, his lack of restraint, and ambition. The Bull needs to be calm and restrained during this time. The Bull will make very important decisions concerning not only his business but also his personal life.

People born in the Year of the Tiger Tiger in 2021 will feel himself in his element - he likes high intensity of activities, and he will be only glad to constant provocations of problems, taking them for a better chance to showcase his remarkable abilities. Tiger had a difficult time last year, he was forced to adjust to difficult flow of time, as if teasing his pride. This 2021 will not require less work, but the results of Tiger's labor will be seen. The Tiger requires careful planning because the surface and carefree attitude towards work can ruin even a prospective job. Tigers should not overestimate his strength or take up many complex and complicated affairs at the same time, because by being carried away, he could easily forget about quality.

The year 2021 will be a favorable time for development of relations between the couple. The Tiger would feel the need to pay attention to his/her partner and develop relationships. If the spouses have disputes, they can easily sort them out now. Strains between couples may increase, and this is associated with Tiger's high intensity of work. A Tiger will have the opportunity of finding his/her love but will be too distracted to pay attention to his/her feelings.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

People born in the Year of the Rabbit The Rabbit will not have as many problems as the other Zodiac Signs but can only achieve success if he decides on it. The Rabbit can successfully correct the mistakes and activities that happened last year and will learn to cope with the difficulties. The Rabbit will be in the spotlight for being in a competitive and optimistic mood. It is important for the Rabbit to gain the support of his family and friends to build his strength. Due to his ability to create smooth communication in any company, Rabbit can be very successful and useful in any activity involving establishment of relations, conclusion of transaction, negotiation, and discussion. The Rabbit should not trust everybody especially for spontaneous decisions during this time.

Rabbit's personal life in early 2021 will be troubled - his/her nervousness or euphoria over work will affect his/her relationship with his/her partner. In mid-2021 The Rabbit may become irritable and impatient and will seek to win the right position in society, at the cost of his/her relationships. At the first occurrence of trouble, the Rabbit should pay attention to the feelings and wishes of his/her loved ones. The Rabbit may indulge in romantic adventures and look for light flirtations, but a fateful meeting with a loved one will take place later in the year.

People born in the Year of the Dragon In 2021 the Dragon will be inclined to take upon his mighty shoulders a lot of work and is at risk of even overestimating his own strength, and not cope with high ambitions and plans. The Dragon will be successful if he would exert enough effort, he will have to pave the hard but right path to success. Difficulties in 2021 may be seen as a kind of training simulator for the development of skills.

With his love for slogans, banners, and carnival masks, Dragons should not get involved in external atrocities, but should give attention to the essence of work, its objectives, and planning. In early 2021, the Dragon will be full of vigor, his energy will be practically inexhaustible, and this will allow him to work actively and cope with influx of affairs. But the Dragon must remember that at the end, there may come a nervous exhaustion, which will weaken his power and abilities. The end of 2021 will be a calm period in the Dragon's life, but it is important to correct the errors of his activities and relationships in order that they do not become obstacles in planning for activities

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Dragon will focus on improving his/her home.

He/she would be happy to buy gifts and necessities for the family, helping friends and relatives. It is pertinent to sort out his/her relationship with a partner after problems that emerged. In early 2021, a Dragon may meet his/her love, and successfully develop and strengthen the relationship throughout the year.

People born in the Year of the Snake For the Snake, the difficulties of the year 2021 will seem not quite so pervasive - he can avoid sharp corners and will calmly work in a planned manner. The Snake should give focus on his intuition and natural wisdom.

Consistently moving forward is the key to a successful development of all Snake's affairs, any stop can indefinitely push aside success. The Snake is a good strategist, he/she has the tendency to analyze, draw conclusions, and predict the outcome. The Snake can also be rather clumsy in relations with others, and may show indifference to them, reject their views, or completely reject collective work. The Snake's pedantry and over adherence to principles can ruin very promising projects that can be triumphant in a more conducive working atmosphere in a team.

The Snake should put in effort to strengthen partnerships. The Snake's personal life is his/her source of pride since it is well-protected, comfortable, and tranquil.

The Snake in the coming 2021 will be full of charm and charisma, he/she will easily find a mate - if, of course, he/she is interested in such a matter. He/she will strengthen relationships with a partner, take care of loved ones and help everyone who needs help.

People born in the Year of the Horse

People born in the Year of the Monkey

Horse in 2021 need not dissipate his energies on many types of activities - he should just select the most productive for himself and seek for their deep and careful execution. In early 2021, events will not immediately overwhelm him, allowing him to get his bearings in a new period, and to carefully plan his activities. It is especially important to remain calm in his activities, not to try and take things by storm, but carefully work on small details. In late 2021, the Horse should watch out for irritability, nervousness - fatigue will accumulate, which may affect the state of his health. This period is good for general cleaning in all affairs and areas of Horse, summarizing and planning for future affairs.

For Monkey, the year 2021 will be very productive, he will gladly flow into the high pace of work and will feel at ease in the most intense affairs of 2021. The Monkey is optimistic, never discouraged, and even after defeat will feel fine and move forward. Monkey can take a specialization or start learning a new profession; an interest in something unknown and unusual will lead him the way even more than ambitious intentions or ambitions.

An impulsive desire to jump through many things at once can hinder Monkey in business because under such activities, he may not see a lot of problems and his own mistakes. His status and financial well-being will not be exposed to an all-out risk, his wisdom and foresight will not allow him stake and lose everything. The Monkey will need to be patient and perform even the most boring and routine work. This is an instructive time, which would give much for Monkey's future, and most importantly - not lose interest to work.

With the advent of 2021, Horse will be full of romantic mood, he will be happy to flirt and meet new people. Horse will be more flexible, he will want a home with warmth and comfort, will focus on family communication more than on social connections. Spouses can afford a romantic vacation. A Horse will be ready for a landmark meeting with his/her destiny.

People born in the Year of the Sheep/ Ram 2021 for the Goat will be calm, though not without difficulties. The Goat can be very successful if he will use all opportunities in his work and communicate more. The Goat will stay afloat on his finances, but there will also be no fabulous profits. The Goat should cleverly use his funds so as not to be left penniless, and under a certain craftiness - may even significantly increase his capital.

The Goat can get problems in the form of various conflicts with peers and colleagues because of his arrogance and contempt for people. The Goat will get the chance to reflect on his actions, and problems that arose will be easily solved, if given enough attention. This period is good for a leisurely work, but not for excessive loads.

Goat's selfishness and passion only through his feelings and experiences can greatly complicate his personal life in 2021. He may be to blame for the numerous quarrels that will arise in early 2021. Goat should pay attention to self-education, educate his personality, learn to interact with a partner and not dominate in a relationship - it is then he would be ready for equal constructive dialogue. Single Goat will be successful among the opposite sex and will easily find his/her soul mate if he will be very willing to continue a romantic relationship.

The Monkey will have a lot of affairs that he will just forget about romance, but to his/her credit, he/she will try to maintain harmony in a relationship, inviting a partner to work together with him/her. Having organized joint activities, the couple may become even closer to each other than they were before. If Monkey will not provoke conflicts, the first half of 2021 will pass peacefully and interestingly. The second half of 2021 may can come with misunderstanding, irritation between couples, spouses may quarrel, and family relationship may dwindle due to overwork. However, the Single Monkey may meet his/her love.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

People born in the Year of the Rooster The Rooster is one of the few zodiac signs, that will feel an extraordinary lightness and lift in strength, and this will allow him to overcome even the greatest difficulties in his path. The main thing for Rooster is a goal and an idea which he should strive to achieve, otherwise his activities would lose their meaning, and he risks just staying in a place in his development. The year will require The Rooster to have the ability to communicate, work in teams, actively and quickly respond to problems, and be more attentive to close ones. Rooster in the first half of 2021 will have to actively prove his point, his talents, and abilities; first - he should by himself get rid of swagger and arrogance. The Rooster must be consistent in his actions, carefully and accurately performing his work.

Rooster's personal life in the year 2021 will not be smooth and calm, but he/she will have a good chance to correct all discrepancies in a relationship with his/her partner, build them from scratch, find his/her happiness, if his/her heart till then remains single. In early 2021, the partners will find mutual understanding, but lonely representatives of this zodiac sign will not be able to step over their pride and ambition to create an equal union. The second half of 2021 will be calmer. This period brings along calm, peace, and happiness.

People born in the Year of the Dog Dog in 2021 will feel relaxed, he will be determined for an active, long-term work. The Dog will have as much material and social benefits as how much he can earn and take in his life. The Dog will thrive in affairs, turning them in such a way that even problems and difficulties will become launching pads for his further success. The Dog should not fidget about and think twice - decisions must be taken accurately, quickly, and decisively. In early 2021, Dog does not need to take on increased commitments because it is very important to work out his own right work tactics during this period, and an abundance of affairs may disorient him. The end of 2021 is the perfect time to take stock, the Dog must carefully analyze his mistakes and make the necessary conclusions for the future. The end of 2021 may bring a flattering offer of a new post or even a new job to a Dog who is an employee, he can begin to change his life, not waiting until the end of 2021.

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In 2021, the Dog will carefully be engaged in the issue of organization of his/her personal life, because he/she needs support, a faithful and reliable person beside him/her. The Dog will try everywhere to have success, he/she will start romantic affairs, easily entering a relationship, and just as easily abandoning them in favor of new, more vivid ones. Such an attitude toward feelings and attitudes can console Dog's self-esteem, but does not suit his personal happiness, and thus he/ she should be more serious and selective. This period should be used to create such a relationship of which the Dog dreams.

People born in the Year of the Pig The Pig would be happy to enjoy all the benefits and opportunities of the year 2021. From the earliest days of 2021, the Pig should take the right direction in his activities so that later he doesn't rush to search a path. It is necessary to accumulate funds, all financial transactions may be too risky, and they should be postponed to a later time. The Pig should not fall into boredom or worse - into a depression. It is recommended that he/she engage in social work, charitable activities, and in creative work, always having a clear and firm purpose before himself.

The Pig should always move forward, and there is no need to force things. Good partnerships, which will be built

by Pig, will help him protect his business from external attacks. It must be noted that many will not recognize Pig he will change in early 2021 wherein long running affairs can cause Pig to be frustrated, and he runs the risk of leaving them unfinished, when many of them still have very good prospects. In early 2021, it will be right to solve all the old problems that impede his path. The end of 2021 will be very favorable for his most ambitious undertakings.

Pig's personal life will not be quiet, but it will certainly be a happy one, if he/she will not engage in public activities to the detriment of a romantic relationship with a partner. If the relationship of the spouses has outlived itself, and the partners have come to a mutual decision to part, it's best to do so right now, in early 2021.

The Pig can easily find his/her love and will be ready for long-term romantic relationship.

EDSA:

More Than Just a Busy Street

by Jacob de Jesus

Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

Apart from being one of the most well-known busy streets in the Metro, the Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (or famously known as EDSA) lies a very substantial historical root dating back from the 1900s. Being more than just a public highway, it is an embodiment of four momentous days of commendable courage and pride among the Filipinos[1]. Now in commemoration of its 35th anniversary, revisiting EDSA People Power Revolution is essential in awakening the spirit of people in forming solidarity against any appalling regime—one that may be needed to counter the current oppressive forces.

Being a symbol of coming together, on the 20th of February of the same year, the four-day revolution was a trigger that started from a clear electoral fraud. However, despite Marcos having to snap the election results, he was able to retain his authority in the national government. This has led some government officials, ministers, and the Catholic Church to urge a call for his removal from office.

People from all over the country started to join mass protests to remove the subjugating powers of the tyrant— “a nation wrestling itself back from a dictator,” as described[1].

The remarkable event on the 25th of February 1986 has contributed a large portion in the country’s rich history. Millions of Filipinos from all walks of life had managed to govern a revolt yearning to overthrow the dictatorial administration of former president Ferdinand E. Marcos. More than just forming solidarity, people who participated in the national march along EDSA had shown exemplary courage and determination in reclaiming liberty, one that has been taken away since the reign of the totalitarian rule[2]. It has staged series of political protests and demonstrations, hoping to reveal the dissent and discontent of the general populace, whether nonconformists or not[1][2].

In a nutshell, this notable moment has shaped our culture and became a significant contribution across the borders, being an archetype for political change without violence[3]. Now, as we inch closer to celebrating its 35th anniversary, may history serve as a wake-up call that even after People Power, we still need to work in unity toward the change we desire. Especially now that we are under a sickening administration, may we be reminded that we have the capacity of ceasing powers of officials who do not aim for the common good. As manifested by the upheaval, change does not come as presidents change[3].

[1]Official Gazette. (n.d.). A history of the Philippine political protest. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/the-ph-protest/ [2]Official Gazette. (n.d.). 30th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/ [3]Rojas II, J.F. (2018). Why it’s important to remember Edsa. Business Mirror. https://businessmirror.com.ph/2018/02/25/whyits-important-to-remember-edsa/

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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From a Plot of Land, into a Garden of Possibilities

by President Derique Casio Rotaract Club of Manila Metro

BASECO, MANILA - An empty lot turned into a garden of possibilities. Rotaractors became a witness to their projects having a life on its own.

For the BASECO Community Garden Project, the future is bright for 20 families who decided to dedicate their time for the project’s completion. With all the coordination from my club and all the other stakeholders, as well as their blood, sweat and tears, we’ve created their garden of possibilities.

It would have been quite a sight, as a year ago, the same plot of land was filled with debris and litter. Beside a “white house’ bathroom, the land was often unused except as a garbage area, parking area, and a “siesta” place for kids and adults.

It wasn’t until October 2020, when the Rotaract Club of Manila Metro (RACMM) and Sustainable Gardener Ph, in partnership with Bless the Children Foundation and Rotary Club of Manila Metro, joined forces to initiate the BASECO Community Garden Project.

What is our project?

Our garden project was created for struggling families living within the slums of BASECO compound.

Prior to the pandemic, the community members were already burdened with unstable income, lack of phone signal, regular floods, protracted access to water and electricity and surrounded pollution. Amidst all their challenges, we want our garden to serve as a beacon of hope.

Our objective was to create a community garden to boost our beneficiaries’ food security, while promoting ecofriendly practices. We aimed to grow local economies by sourcing the needed construction materials (concrete, wood, landfilling, etc.) and volunteer labor within the community. To efficiently use the surrounding waste, we intend to mobilize the community to create eco-bricks (plastic bottles stuffed with plastic wrappers) in order to serve as raised garden beds. Besides the set-up, we planned to assist them at the initial planting of the vegetables by conducting a short seminar on gardening at the constructed garden. At the end of all this set-up, we envision the garden to be a sustainable source of food for the community for years to come.

get to help each other here." After our conversation, she returned to the crowd, where she listened to a short talk on where to plant the seed. Mother Rowena, like all volunteers, felt that joy because the garden strengthens their community, while opening opportunities for them.

In every occasion, my club felt the harvested love and genuine passion that the community volunteers. Last December 3, 2020, a group of them was mixing soil and coconut husk merrily. Rochelle Plantino shared to us her thoughts saying "I am enjoying my time here, because we

As my club wonders at the garden, we couldn't help but smile at the effect it had on the community. In our visit last January 29, 2021, we counted a total of 426 growing small-medium sized vegetables. We were told to expect more to come.

.After a few weeks, we've noticed that the bond grows stronger and the garden grows more greener than before. Jona Jainge told us that "We invited our neighbors sometimes to see our garden. We even had a system within our group. Whenever we are free, we stay here in the garden to help." It was clear that the cause of the thriving garden came from the sustained efforts and ownership of all our community volunteers.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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Share a Gift, Light a Home

We Care (Mental Health Problem)

Rotaract Club of Manila Supreme 198

Rotaract Club of Aseana Manila

by DPDD Nikki Parlade

19/12/2020 | RAC Manila Supreme 198 and RAC STI College – Pasay Edsa celebrated the Holiday season with 50 families in Lobo, Batangas for the second time.

“Share a Gift, Light a Home” project was able to give gift packs, vitamins for the kids and pregnant women and a short prayer for its beneficiaries.

by President Jhudiel Gilbert Amier

30/12/2020 | The club officers and new club members of the Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars were officially inducted by District Rotaract Representative (DRR) Rhyan Satoquia during an Induction Ceremony held via Zoom platform that was also attended by its sponsoring club, Rotary Club of Downtown Manila.

“Orgs” to Partner with for Your Next Livelihood Project

by DDRAR Coleene Villanueva Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

In celebration of the vocational and livelihood service month, you may have some projects in mind that are yet to be implemented. Your club may also be in search of an organization that you can partner with to help you meet your project needs and goals. Fortunately in the Philippines, we have an abundant list of organizations that focus on livelihood and vocational programs.

Should you be interested, here are some organizations that you can tap for your next livelihood project.

Bukas Palad Foundation Bukas Palad Foundation is a non-profit and nongovernmental organization that has programs for sustainable development, education, livelihood, and information and communication strategy.

Their beneficiaries are mostly children, women, elderly, the urban poor, and victims of calamities and other natural disasters. As stated in their website, they live by the motto “Freely we give, freely we receive”. The foundation has already reached out to 10,000 families.

There are three sub-programs under their livelihood program: 1) Loans Program; 2) Sewing Program; and 3) Job Placement Program. The Loan Program lends small capital to sustain families or existing small businesses and enterprises. Meanwhile, their Sewing Program trains mothers and young women to develop the skills needed to thrive in the sewing industry.

As a result, these women are able earn income by simply working from home, enough to sustain their families.

Lastly, their Job Placement program helps beneficiaries to find work depending on the openings provided by Bukas Palad’s partner organizations and companies.

For more information, you may visit their website bukaspaladfoundation.org/our-programs

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UPLiFt Philippines This organization, as described in their vision statement, “is an organization working towards excellence with a holistic approach to guide the entrepreneurial urban poor out of poverty so they can live with dignity and be socially responsible.” They empower their partner communities through “responsive and innovative microfinance, training, business and social development services.”

Aside from financial support, UPLiFT offers nonfinancial support to their beneficiaries in the form of Pulong and skills training. Pulong training is facilitated courses targeted in enhancing capabilities on personal life management, business management, and social awareness. These courses include discussions about entrepreneurship, business planning, and savings. On the other hand, skills training aims to equip their beneficiaries with the necessary attitude and skills in developing a product or service. They teach skills on food processing, such as in the areas of meat production, fish processing, vegetable and fruit products, native delicacies; and nonfood products, such as candle making, soap making, perfume making, fashion accessories, cosmetology, reflexology.

CARE Philippines A leading international humanitarian organization delivering long-term development projects in different communities in the Philippines. Currently they are implementing programs on urban resilience, disaster risk reduction, and economic development. One of which is a project founded on the value chain where beneficiaries are trained from production to marketing of products and services. One good example is an association of women running a seaweed production enterprise assisted by the organization.

Be one of their local partners by visiting their website and sending them a message at carephilippines.org/.

Visit their websites at www.uplift.org.ph/nonfinancial.html

iVolunteer Philippines This organization houses all other organizations existing within the Philippines with a mission to promote volunteerism and provide volunteers a quick and convenient way of finding volunteering opportunities according to skills, interests, and advocacies.

If you want to explore and see more organizations that can help you in your projects in different areas of focus, you may search for potential partners using this link: https://www.ivolunteer.com.ph/organization. You may also partner with iVolunteer by sending them a message at partnerships@ivolunteer.com.ph.

Ano ang Hawak Mo?

by Charlene Mae D. Canlas Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

lapis, ballpen, papel, at libro mga bagay na laging hawak ng mga kamay ko..

Sa kasagsagan ng pandemyang ito Kung saan ang lahat ay huminto..

Kabuhayan, trabaho..

At ang buhay estudyante ko..

Habang nakakulong sa madilim na silid ko Paulit ulit kong tinatanong ang mga katagang “Paano?”

Paano ang mga pangarap na unti unti ko pa lamang binubuo Pandemya, Paano mo nagagawang maglaho ang mga pangarap ko kabataan, bilog ang mundo.. wag mong gawing sentro ang apat na sulok ng kwadrado mong kwarto Pandemya.

Hindi ito hadlang para paganahin ang utak mo at ilabas ang kakayahan at talento Na tinatago mo diyan sa loob puso mo Na kinikulong mo lamang diyan sa imahinasyon mo..

Rotaractor, bukas ang pinto Pintong puno ng oportunidad Na maghahatid koneksyon At inspirasyon Ultimo sarili at komunidad mo ay kaya mong gawan ng transpormasyon Dahil naniniwala ako sayo.. isa kang indibidwal na may aksyon

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

Halika't pakinggan ang storya ng aming organisasyon Ang Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars Ay kayang harapin ang pandemya upang makapagbigay malasakit Sa mga mamamayang gipit At nararanasan ang kahirapang kay lupit Dahil hindi alintana ang kahit na anong sakit Proyektong AKBAY, "Abot kamay, bigay alay" Para sa 17 sustainable goals At 7 Area of focus Kung saan bibigyang tugon Ang mundong puno ng hamon Bacchante (1894)

by William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905)

TUPAD, Isang proyektong magbibigay daan para edukasyong may kalidad Pagtutugon sa pangangailangan ng mga kabataan para mapaunlad ang kanilang kapasidad Sa gitna ng pandemya kung saan ang hirap matugunan ang pangangailangan para sa Akademya proyektong Little libraries Para sa pagpapayabong ng literasiya..

Coins for Homeless people..

Kung saan tutulong sa lahat ng humahagulgol Dahil ang kanilang ugnayan sa kanilang pamilya ay sadyang putol..

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kabataan, Buksan mo ang puso mo para humanap ng solusyon Upang ang mahihirap na komunidad ay maka ahon At gawing susi ang yaman ng edukasyon Para makamit ang kapayapaan Masupil ang hidwaan Mapayaman ang kalusugan At ang tubig ay maging purong kalinisan At higit sa lahat, sagipin ang kalikasan Kabataan, walang hadlang sa taong may dedikasyon.. para sa serbisyo at aksyon.

Huminto man ang takbo ng mundo Pero kabataan, wag mong hahayaang huminto ang pintig ng puso mo Pagdating sa serbisyo sa mamamayang Pilipino Teka..Hindi lang ito ang maabot ng kamay mo Lapis, ballpen, papel at libro mga bagay na laging hawak ng mga kamay ko..

Teka..

Hawak ko ang kapangyarihan tungo sa pagbabago Ng mundo Ikaw, kabataan?

Ano ang hawak ng kamay mo?

..

Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars Induction Ceremony

by President Nassim Malaco Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

30/12/2020 | The club officers and new club members of the Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars were officially inducted by District Rotaract Representative (DRR) Rhyan Satoquia during an Induction Ceremony held via Zoom platform that was also attended by its sponsoring club, Rotary Club of Downtown Manila.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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Titos and Titas of Hallyu: The 6th Charter Annivery Celebration of RAC MS 198

by DPDD Nikki Parlade

Rotaract Club of Manila Supreme 198

30/12/2020 | RAC Manila Supreme 198 celebrated its 6th Charter Anniversary the Hallyu way. The club took its members, sponsoring Rotarians and guests to the travel back in time to Hallyu years of 2000-2010. They enjoyed answering the quiz most especially reminiscing the Korean songs and dramas of this era.

RAC RCDM Scholars Updates and Accomplishments Presentation with Rotary Club of Downtown Manila

by President Nassim Malaco Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

15/01/2021 | Transformational President Nassim Malaco successfully presented the accomplishments of the Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars and discussed the upcoming projects of the club that will look forward to be accomplished for the remaining months of the Rotary Year.

12 December | Merry Little Geek Christmas: A Night of Fried Brain Cells Rotaract Club of Manila

30 December | General Assembly and Year-End Party Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

20 January | Dry-Run Meeting Rotaract Club of Raha Sulayman Volunteers

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

The first 3 words describe your 2021

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Different Styles & Tips to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

by IPP Mark Ababao Rotaract Club of Manila Bay

February is a typical month wherein couples are busy — planning for their dates, thinking of the perfect gift, buying gorgeous outfits and mostly, making reservations to celebrate Valentine’s day. But since we’ll be most likely spending this at our homes this year, here are some tips and ideas on how to spend the night with your loved ones, friends and even by yourself while following the social distancing protocols.

Since quarantine started, we have been accustomed to spending quality time over Zoom. But spice up your virtual night with these following Valentine’s date ideas with your partner:

Host Virtual Game/Movie Night.

Perhaps your tradition of spending Valentine's Day is to celebrate it with your friends, do not lose hope as you can still spend the night with them with this idea. Spend Valentine’s day with your friends again through zoom by inviting them to an evening of competitive game night.

Prepare Valentine’s themed games and questions or if you prefer something laid back, you and your friend can opt to watch some movies.

Valentine’s day is Self-care day.

Customize care package and deliver it to your partner.

Celebrating the valentine’s day alone? No worries as you can spend the rest of the day taking care of yourself.

There are plenty of ways to surprise your partner, one is to send them a care package with snacks, wine, a few cute gifts and even Valentine's day Card. You may also check different Care package online if you don’t want to spend so much time planning and preparing your gifts. (e.g. @Snapbox Ph and As Nature Intended ).

Since Valentine’s day this year falls on a Sunday, take this time for yourself, forget all the jampack work tasks, modules and whatever your stressors are and take time to rest. Prepare some charcuterie board and wine for yourself – yes, just for yourself. You may also take some baking or mixology class online and leave all the negativity behind. Always remember that you can never go wrong in treating your own self.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

The Joys of Being Single By IPP Ralph Baniqued Rotaract Club of Manila Bay

DRAR Marj Madrigal Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

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The season of love is here again...for some. For us lone bachelors and bachelorettes, it might just be an obnoxious time of the year that we would purposely ignore. As Instagram starts to flood with couple photos, we tend to overlook the good aspects of our singlehood and miss the time when we should be embracing and appreciating it instead. No need to sulk as the time for “Single Awareness Month” fast approaches. Here are some benefits of being single that you can start celebrating: Less expenses. The only Valentine’s gift you need to give is to yourself. Going on dates can get uber expensive but luckily, it’s something we can cross out from our plans. If you’ve been eyeing for that new phone or that shiny PS5, then being single definitely gives you the opportunity to earn some dough.

More time for self-care. Who said you only have to see other people? Being single means you’ve got all the time in the world to date yourself. Take a long relaxing bath, light some candles, and switch on your favorite show to have a fulfilling destress session. Having no commitments means you are your top priority so take this time of freedom to love you.

More time for friends and family. Happiness doesn't necessarily depend on solitary status. Truth be told, most of those who are single tend to have stronger relationships with their friends and family. Yes, having a good relationship with family and friends, and a sound relationship with a romantic partner are not mutually exclusive but you can’t deny that one tends to be prioritized over the other at times. It’s important to have strong social connections whether you are single or not but there’s no doubt that when you’re single you are able to spend more time deepening the platonic relationships that you find most valuable.

Self-discovery. At the end of the day, one of your most important relationships is with yourself. Being single can give you a valuable opportunity to explore your passions, work on your career and discover your likes and dislikes. Respectively, if you are able to build the foundations of your individuality, you are less likely to drop the ball once you decide to jump on a romantic relationship. ‘Hahanapin ko lang ang sarili ko’ won’t even be an available excuse for you. You know what you want, you know what you need. Your worth is indispensable and you are more likely to earnestly assert it in the future.

Because of & Despite of

Rotaract & Rotary

by DPD Ae Laudencia Rotaract Club of Manila

Let’s all face it, love and a long-lasting relationship on its own is hard to come by, but if we factor in our life as a Rotaractor, things take a whole new dimension of complicated. Weekend outreach, district meetings, late night project planning sessions evolving to overnight fellowships- the well encultured Rotaractor knows this hectic life all too well. And yet, through it all, love thrives in District 3810. Rotaractors found ways to find love, cultivate strong relationships, and even build families because of being Rotaractors and Rotarians.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

With that said, in celebration of LOVE and February, we asked a few notable married 3810 Rotaractors/ Rotarians and their significant others for relationship advice that might help and inspire you to find love as a Rotaractor.

They started from being Rotaractors in service and in love to being Rotarians involved in the Rotary community and in wedded bliss- PP Cess and CP Chock Encabo of Rotary Metro Escolta

It started as fellowship through service and ended up happily married with two kids- Rtn JM Cuales of Rotary Club of Manila Magic and PP KK Reyes-Cuales of Rotaract Club of Manila

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Did Rotaract/ Rotary play a role in the two of you meeting each other?

PP Cess and CP Chock: We were high school sweethearts and we met prior to joining Rotaract / Rotary but we must say that Rotaract / Rotary did play a role in building our relationship. During our Rotaract days, we spent most of our time doing outreach projects, meetings, and fellowships with fellow Rotaractors, thus we realized that being in a relationship doesn’t mean limiting yourself from doing other things or from meeting other people.

Being in a relationship means growing together while enjoying each other’s company. Through Rotaract, we get to know each other deeply; we learn to support each other, exchange ideas and opinions on certain things. More importantly, our Rotaract experiences help us become better versions of ourselves.

PP KK: Yes, we met through RAC Manila. I was invited by my good friend Candy to join a fellowship. There was a game and JM was the game master, he made sure I would win hehe. I cannot remember him that much during that time, I just remember that he got so many packs of flattops (my prize).

Rtn JM: Yes, as KK said, Rotaract made way for us to meet. But never in my mind had I imagined that we will be together. During the RAC fellowship KK has mentioned, I only wanted to welcome her by making her win the jackpot. Because it's fun! What I only felt post-event was that I want her to stay with the club because my gut feel tells me that she will be one of the greatest assets RAC Manila can have and I have always wanted the best for the club.

IPDRR Erica: Not really. He’s not a Rotaractor but you might have seen him bringing me to or fetching me from Rotaract activities. Since becoming a couple, I’ve been wanting him to be a Rotaractor, but he has other things that require his focus.

Colleagues turned Rotaractor and supportive Boyfriend, turned IPDRR and loving daddy – IPDRR Erica Paywan Florendo of Rotaract Club of San Antonio De Padua and Handsome Hubby Enzo Florendo

Enzo: We were work colleagues. I was then a high school teacher and she was a guidance counselor in school, but even back then I knew she was involved in Rotaract and was an adviser to an Interact Club. I opted not to join the club, NOT because It won’t be beneficial or fruitful for me.

Rather, my reservation is that the club won’t benefit or bear fruit with someone who would be half-hearted about their involvement. I wouldn’t want mine or Erica’s image tarnished by that. That’s not what Rotaract stands for. Still,

I know Rotaract is her passion so that’s something I support her especially when my help is needed. It comes down to what builds the foundation of all relationships I want to be in- commitment.

IPDRR Erica: He only wants to have a commitment with me. Haha.

How would you describe your dating life and married life while being a Rotaractor/ Rotarian?

PP KK: We got together a few months before he assumed the presidency. I remember, I asked him (and the few people who knows) not to inform the others that we’re together. That time I was afraid that people might judge us if he was not able to do his job as the president. So aside from keeping it a secret for a while, I promised to myself that our relationship cannot affect our performance as officers in the club.

Rtn JM: That's true, our first few months of being together hadn't been very easy. It's hard to keep something like a relationship a secret when you want to tell everyone about it and celebrate. I also wouldn't want her to be in spotlight whenever I'd have shortcomings as the President of the club. But at the end of the day, it's all worth it because I'm pursuing my passion to serve and the one I love whenever we're wearing a Rotaractor's/Rotarian's hat.

IPDRR Erica: He started popping up in events in 2016.

He’s been supportive of me attending events even when I started being a district officer. I just make sure to tell him if we have events and projects. So, in my mind I know he knows I have to wake up early, stay up late, and sleep at dawn because I’m doing Rotaract things. In events, I ask him to bring me to or fetch me from the venue. When there are things in his skillset that I need help with I make sure to tap him. That has been our dynamics. There was one event I attended that I remember fondly because he was there- my induction as a District Officer for PDRR Lysa. I really appreciated that moment. That’s when I realized me being a Rotaractor won’t be an obstacle to our relationship.

When I became DRR I just noticed that he became a little grumpier, hehe. But that’s because I was a pregnant wife staying up late for events and heading home in the wee hours of the night. What changed was he doubled his support, even before we got married, I told him that I have a commitment to the district as an officer and that I need his continued support through it all. I’m very thankful he

supported me through my year as a DRR. It was a reasonable request for him as my husband and expecting father to insist I step down from being a DRR with the pregnancy being sensitive and all, but he understood and knew what this responsibility means to me.

Enzo: She was a Rotaractor even before I stepped into her life. So, who am I to take it away from her? It’s what I know she enjoys doing.

IPDRR Erica: I just appreciate it more now because I could just imagine how much restraint and struggle it was for him to see his wife very active as DRR and very pregnant. So, thank you so much, Daddy.

PP Cess and CP Chock: Rotaract became part of our usual routine when we were still dating. We would usually join service project activities or meetings of our club or district in the morning or afternoon before going on a date.

We don't have any issues about it because we both enjoy what we do in Rotaract. There was even a time when Cess had to spend her birthday at Rizal Memorial Stadium because it coincided with the District Sports Fest. I was the DRR then and I have to fulfill my duties as the DRR. But of course, I treated her to a nice and sumptuous dinner after the event. As a married couple, Rotaract / Rotary still plays an important role in our married life, although our involvement and participation especially in Rotaract isn't as active as before when we were still Rotaractors, I would say that Rotaract/Rotary happenings, activities and exchanging of project ideas is still part of our random conversations during coffee time after dinner or even before bedtime.

How has your involvement as a Rotaractor/ Rotarian changed when you entered your relationship?

IPDRR Erica: I think you should answer this one.

Enzo: I’ve come to know many people who became Rotaractors without having complete knowledge or full commitment to the club at the onset who became great leaders and Rotaractors. Erica fondly recounts how she was blindsided by Nanay Nora into joining her Rotaract Club. So, it was not that I was never convinced to join Rotaract, it was more that I did not join because I know I cannot fully commit.

I’m mostly involved in support of Erica, but Rotaract made me gain a real appreciation of civic organizations helping improve the community. In the events where I accompanied her, I saw them enact real

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How is being Rotaractors/Rotarians challenged and/or strengthened your relationship when you were dating and as a married couple?

change for the community not simply for the sake of submitting a report. Rotaract addressing the SDGs and humanitarian efforts was something I respect.

PP Cess and CP Chock: When we were still Rotaractors, we participated and attended most of the club and district activities and events. We were so involved and attached to our club projects, like the Big Kuya Project and activities; we have already built a strong relationship with our fellow members and the communities we were helping. We became so attached that we do not want to leave them behind. But just like any other things in life, there are times when you have to let go and move forward. Not so long ago, together with fellow Rotaractors, we chartered the Rotary club of Metro Escolta and had the opportunity to continue what we do in Rotaract. We can say that as our personal relationship grows, our commitment and passion to be of service also grew deeper, probably because we both realized how blessed we are through the communities we've visited and the people we have met in Rotary. We have gained and learned so much from Rotary that we wanted to share to young leaders all the learning, experiences, and realizations we had.

PP KK: Well, the best thing about being both a member in Rotaract and being in a relationship is that we get to do things that we both love. We consider all the activities in Rotaract as our date. We’re both happy while doing the activities because we’re together and at the same time we’re doing something we both love PP Rtn JM: I'd say it changed for the better. When we got together, I had more reason to be active in the club and to always go the extra mile. Aside from giving her the best Rotaract experience possible, I am also doing what I really love doing --- serving above self and making the world a better place 1 act of kindness at a time.

PP Cess and CP Chock: During our Rotaract days, we think that our greatest challenge is how to manage our time in a way that we could still manage to prioritize our health, family and our personal relationship while attending to Rotaract activities. We are not perfect, our relationship is not perfect, we have our share of disagreements and misunderstandings but overtime, we have learned to honor our commitment in Rotaract/Rotary without compromising our personal commitment and relationship to each other. When we got married, we agreed to lessen our time in any extra activities and focus on building our family. But we realized that Rotaract and Rotary is part of our family. We grow together in Rotary; we have learned to support and understand each other's differences. We may have different views and opinions on certain things and ideas but our involvement in Rotaract and Rotary helped us realize the importance of trust, honesty, and open communication.

PP KK: The number 1 challenge for me is, we can’t argue while in rotaract lol. We both have to be mature and professional haha! Not all the time I can do it, but I tried my best haha!

Rtn JM: It actually seemed we're put to trial by fire.

Imagine having an intense argument but you both need to be in a club activity in half an hour or so. Our love for each other and for Rotaract was really tested that even if we're in bad terms, we can still agree to do service because of our love of Rotaract. On the other hand, this experience has shown us how mature we can and must be. It made us fall for each other more. All the hardships and obstacles we've triumphed nurtured our relationship.

IPDRR Erica: A few months before my term as a DRR started, we went to the doctor to have the baby checked.

They had me on bed rest, they prohibited me from traveling and doing too many things because it was a really sensitive pregnancy, and I could get a miscarriage. It was at that point that Enzo and I sat down and had a serious conversation about continuing my responsibilities with the District. I was in tears, but I know I didn’t want to drop my responsibilities. I saw Enzo and I knew he was also struggling but he continued to support me, and here we are now, I’m an IPDRR and we have Baby Ely.

PP Cess and CP Chock: One cannot predict how, when and to whom you will fall in love. We cannot really advise if you should fall in love with a fellow Rotaractor or not.

Always check or assess your motivation in joining an organization such as Rotaract. Rotaract is a service organization, we join this kind of organization because primarily, we wanted to make a difference in the lives of others or we wanted to develop our strengths as young leaders. If, along the way, you meet someone...a fellow Rotaractor, fall in love and commit yourself into the relationship, then do everything you can, give your best to make the relationship work. Learn to separate your personal relationship with your commitment to Rotaract. If your relationship fails, always go back to the very reason why you joined this organization and gradually move forward. Falling in love with a fellow Rotaractor doesn't guarantee a relationship to work. Both of you should be willing to cultivate the relationship to make it work.

Is falling in love with fellow Rotaractors something you would advise? Why or why not?

PP KK: Well, for me it's ok as long as it won't affect your performance in the club. You both need to be mature in handling things. Being in love with your fellow rotaractor has its pros and cons, maybe the good thing that happened to us is, we always kept an open and honest communication. Like for me, sometimes I feel that I am "over-communicating" haha! I am very straightforward with JM, he's the clingy one and it's always tough love between us. Well as they say, opposites attract.

Rtn JM: Yes and No. Yes, because falling in love with a Rotaractor would at least guarantee you 1 desirable trait, kindness. I am confident to say that each of us in this vocation are kind and for me, this is 1 of the should-be non-negotiables when we are looking for a life partner --that he/she should be kind. No because I wouldn't want to force it to any Rotaractor that you should fall in love with a fellow Rotaractor. There is a bigger world out there and they should not limit themselves in the Rotaract community. It just so happened that KK and I were at the right place at the right time and Rotaract made it possible for us to meet. I would rather advise every Rotaractor to fall in love with service, with Rotaract service, and maybe that will lead you to finding that person who complements you and loves the things that you do.

IPDRR Erica: Definitely. Though Enzo is not a Rotaractor, love knows no bounds. As long as you have the same goal and vision for the relationship you can definitely be in love with a Rotaractor, and non-Rotaractors.

What love advice would you like to share with Rotaractors?

IPDRR Erica: Don’t be afraid to fall in love. Being in love and out of love is part of life and growing. There are many things that you grow from and develop by being in a relationship. Commit yourself fully to your significant other and remain faithful to the relationship. Commit your best to your significant other to grow together.

Keep the communication open. Arguments, fights, and an eventual break-up come from lack of communication and unclear setting of expectation. When the couple is on the same page, there are less arguments. When expectations on things like effort are clearly communicated, we avoid feeling underappreciated or overexerting in the relationship. We get more understanding of how much effort is being brought in by each person in the relationship when we communicate.

Allow your relationship to be a venue to grow and be a space to respect individual differences. A healthy relationship allows both partners to grow individually and professionally. Your significant other came into your life as a whole person so we need to communicate and respect the limitations of the relationship.

It’s really a wonderful thing to fall in love. A budding relationship is exciting. Discovering and getting to know your loved one is thrilling. But it’s through surviving and overcoming hardships together that you really get to test that love. That’s when you know love, when in the thick of the problem you consciously choose each other.

Especially as a married couple.

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PP Cess and CP Chock: Don't rush yourself into love.

The right person will come to you at the right place and at the right time. Just enjoy life and spend it wisely with your family and friends. When the right person comes, do your share to make the relationship work. Grow together hile realizing and turning your own dreams into a reality.

Always support each other and remember that an honest and open communication will strengthen your relationship.

Always, always choose to love each other despite the imperfections and differences. Lastly, pray and make God the center of your relationship.

Not all relationships last long, not all long relationships last. No one really gets to understand how love works. All we can do with love lost and love found is to learn and grow from it all.

Enzo: Follow the 4-Way Test When in a relationship be truthful to your partner and yourself. Honesty is one of the keys to be successful in a relationship, whatever relationship it may be.

The relationship should be fair to both parties, so no partner is aggrieved. Any rules and boundaries set as part of the relationship should be applicable to both parties. If you don’t want your partner entertaining messages from certain people, the same expectation must be applied to you.

Of course, the relationship should be beneficial to both parties. (Erica: Also, no to third parties. Haha) Allow growth for you and your partner so that you grow as a couple.

PP KK: If you know that you will stay and be active in your club even if you guys break up with each other, then go for it. If your passion for Rotaract and your love for each other are on the same level or at least on the same track or with the same goal, go for it. Else, maybe it would be better if you go for someone who's not in the Rotaract world because your circle of friends will be his/her circle of friends. Basically, your world will become smaller because both of you are in the same organization and if you broke up, you might also break up with Rotaract. Then Rotaract would lose 2 great individuals both with passion to serve who could both have been a blessing to a lot of people through Rotaract.

Rtn JM: I agree with KK and to add, remember to love yourself first. Love yourself so much that the people around you will take notice and will also learn to love you as you are. Then, decide on your non-negotiables for a life partner, that whatever happens, these non-negotiables must be true to your partner. Pick a couple that you admire in terms of handling their relationship and growing in their love and how they deal with disagreements and differences and learn from them. Also, don't forget to enjoy each other's company and ride the waves of harmony and conflict together. Love is the most wonderful thing in the world. It can make or break, create or destroy, repair or ruin, and bring together or separate. It can make you feel all kinds of emotions --- happiness, sadness, anger, despair, hopefulness, and delight. Lastly, whatever fight may come your way, no matter the amount of tears you shed and hurtful words you utter, always choose your partner, always choose to understand, always choose to love.

Let’s opt for a relationship that will build better friendships and family ties.

I hope you find some insight and nuggets of wisdom from our couples’ experiences and insights. May it set you on a path towards love and service.

RAC n Learn: Enabling the Professional in You

by President Nassim Malaco Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

The Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars implemented an education and professional development program, entitled RAC n Learn: Enabling the Professional in You held last January 17 and 24, 2021. This project was headed by Jester Cadevida, Professional Development Director of the said club. The objectives of the project are

to provide livelihood opportunities to college students and Rotaractors that can financially support them that were able to cover their personal and school expenses. The learning from this program will be also applicable and useful for their schoolwork and jobs.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

Moreover, the goal of this project was to align its objectives to Rotary’s Areas of Focus through supporting basic education and literacy and responding to economic and community development. The project invited experts to educate and train its participants related with the most indemand job skills such as communication skills, Microsoft Applications, and more. This project also aimed to raise awareness on mental health to help its participants improve self-esteem and learn how to manage stress on schoolwork and jobs. The project also promoted the club's advocacy and leadership and professional programs of Rotary and Rotaract.

Here were the speakers and topics discussed during the programs: 1st Session Mrs. Cerina Galoy – Microsoft Word Mr. Uary Mijares – Microsoft Powerpoint Ms. Jan Maravilla – Microsoft Jan Maravilla 2nd Session Ms. Gianina Maria Ciriaco – Leadership Awards (RYLA) Ms. Marvic Therese - Freelancing

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The project provided long-term solutions to its participants by offering them livelihood opportunities that can financially support them even after the implementation of the project. On the second session of the project, the participants learned how to start and manage accounts on Freelance, a website that offers online job opportunities with the several skills required.

Moreover, the project gave sustainable impact to its participants through training/s that equipped them with the professional skills and literacy that are applicable and useful for their schoolwork and jobs or occupations. They have learned a lot and been inspired by the motivational talk about stress and time management and life purpose shared by some of the club members and they were also aware of the leadership programs of the Rotary and Rotaract.

Identify your interests.

Knowing Yourself: Tips to SkillBuilding by President Derique Mikhail Casio Rotaract Club of Manila Metro

DDRAR Coleene Villanueva Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

Self-assessment is the process of looking at oneself to evaluate and look at aspects that are important to one's identity. Before deciding which skills to build on, take time to step back and get to understand yourself first.

Assess your wants and needs, and the things that make your heart excited regardless if it is a personal endeavor or a professional career. It is also worth going through your values and qualities as a person embarking on (1) What matters most to you; (2) What you enjoy doing; and (3) What you are good at.

Reflect on your Strengths and weaknesses.

Naturally, it is easier for us to point out our weaknesses over our strengths. Simply because we do not really trust ourselves for having those strengths in the first place. When venturing out on something new, whether you want to learn a new hobby or enhance your career performance, playing on both your strengths and weaknesses is what makes you stand out and successful.

Begin by listing down what you believe are your strengths and weaknesses. Here is a quick criteria in determining which part of your traits are your strengths: (1) You are good or have the potential to be good at it; (2) You are energized by doing it; and (3) It benefits something greater than yourself. After that, slowly work on these by improving your strengths and overcoming your weaknesses.

Ask for feedback.

As Henry Ford once said, “anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.”

2021 — a critical year where most of us have finally felt the disruptions caused by the pandemic. It is also a crucial year where we prepare for the pandemic’s long-term impacts, both in our personal and professional lives. Many of us have lost our sense of selves as our lifestyles were forced to change overnight, and now that we are in the process of pivoting our mindset to the new normal and regaining our control towards the situation, developing the necessary skills in this challenging milieu is necessary.

However, learning to identify which skills to build according to your interests and strengths is just as important as the actual process of developing it. Here are four tips that can guide you in knowing yourself towards skill-building.

As previously mentioned, it is easier for us to look at our bad traits rather than the good ones. Most of the time, it is the people around us that can truly identify the areas we are good at since it is them that frequently witness and experience the benefit of it. Asking feedback from your friends, families, or colleagues, can help validate the strengths you are aware of and uncover the ones you are not.

Persist and be gritty.

Grit is defined as “the ability to persist in something you feel passionate about and persevere when you face obstacles.” Learning and developing a new skill is only possible when you are determined to work on it. Without grit, you will be unable to acquire your desired skills despite having them identified. Remember, things do not get done unless you begin and work through it; and what better time to start things other than now? There may be some limitations mobility-wise, but there are endless things we can still learn, discover, and explore. It is never too late to learn a skill; whether it is a hard skill or a soft skill, as long as you are willing to build and apply it for something good and you truly enjoy, then what is there to lose?

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Meanwhile, below are the essential and trendy skills in 2021. Hard Skills are defined as “learned abilities acquired and enhanced through practice, repetition, and education.” These skills are occupational and are often useful in the workplace as they increase employee productivity and efficiency. On the other hand, the skills that help you thrive in any environment, whether a workplace or at home, are called soft skills. These skills are a combination of attitude, personality traits, emotional intelligence, and social, communication and interpersonal skills.

Hard Skills • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Data science literacy, data analysis and statistics Understanding the Global Economy Futuristic thinking Advanced IT and programming skills Entrepreneurship and initiative-taking skills Project management skills Advanced data analysis and mathematics skills Technology design and engineering skills Project management Cloud computing Knowledge of new social and digital media

Artificial Intelligence Thriving in a virtual environment Marketing Sales Customer Service Accounting Systems analysis and evaluation IT and cybersecurity: Video and audio production Foreign languages and translation Technology design and programming Complex problem-solving

Soft Skills • Courageous leadership, crisis leadership, adaptable leadership (continuous), • Critical thinking (problem solving) • Decision making skills • Emotional intelligence • Interpersonal communication (negotiations, listening, cultivate humility, asking for help) • Cognitive flexibility • Pushing beyond our comfort zones • Focus • Goal setting • Survival skills

Sources: General Skills • These are the three skills you need to succeed in 2021 https://www.fastcompany.com/90594576/these-are-the-3-skills-you-needto-succeed-in-2021 • These are the 5 most valuable skills to learn right now, says futurist—and where to find free online courses https://www.cnbc.com/2020/11/04/these-are-the-5-most-valuable-skills-tolearn-right-now-says-futuristand-where-to-find-free-online-courses.html • What's the state of skills in 2021? Here are top predictions by Degreed https://www.peoplemattersglobal.com/news/skilling/whats-the-state-ofskills-in-2021-here-are-top-predictions-by-degreed-27787 10 Essential Skills to Develop in 2021 https://medium.com/skilluped/10-essential-skills-to-develop-in-2021ab3983f0dc83 • 5 Leadership Skills to Develop Heading Into 2021 https://www.laduenews.com/front-and-center/business/5-leadership-skillsto-develop-heading-into-2021/article_5d2b2371-46a2-5ca8-b7d559f4a532a7be.html

• Growth mindset, positive mindset, coaching mindset, learning mindset, change • Self-awareness (Learning what we know, what we need to be better, etc.)

• Creativity • Resourcefulness (adaptable) • Time management • Determination (work ethic) • Teamwork • Analytical thinking and innovation

Professional Skills • 10 Emerging Skills for Professionals https://blog.dce.harvard.edu/professional-development/10-emerging-skillsprofessionals • 5 Skills Skills Jobseekers Must Learn to Thrive In 2021 https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2021/01/18/5-skills-job-seekersmust-learn-to-thrive-in-2021/?sh=61bd92c2781b • The Top 13 Jobs Skills Employers Want in 2021 https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/top-professional-skills-forresume • The Top 10 Skills Recruiters Are Looking for in 2021 https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2020/11/09/th e-top-10-skills-recruiters-are-looking-for-in-2021/?sh=15d781bf7e38 • 10 Business Skills All Entrepreneurs need to Develop in 2021 https://www.oberlo.com.ph/blog/business-skills-to-start-online-store Soft Skills • 6 sought-after soft skills you’ll benefit in 2021 https://ingenio-global.com/6-sought-after-soft-skills-youll-benefit-in-2021/ • The 7 Soft Skills You Need to Be Successful https://www.omniagroup.com/the-7-soft-skills-you-need-to-be-successful/

Building Your Solitude

by Nicole Keziah M. Untal Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

What is the first definition that comes to your mind when you hear the word solitude? Is it Tranquility? the concept of being alone? Or loneliness? If your answer is one of the first two, congratulations! You are not going to have a hard time building your own solitary fortress, but if you answered the latter, do not worry, it is only normal to think that both solitude and loneliness are the same thing judging from the outside but fret not because any kind of similarities left between the two, ends at the surface as we dig deeper through its facade.

Loneliness is tagged as a negative feeling with a sense of isolation or where one feels that something is missing. Solitude, on the other hand, is a state of being alone with a positive outcome leading to self-realization. In fact, there are people who maintain a lot of social connections and go to different parties each night but still feel lonely and empty deep within.

Even today, it is not at all unusual to feel disconnected from your friends, colleagues, and classmates in this virtual world we currently live in due to this unforeseen pandemic outbreak, However, despite everything, the world continues to spin faster than before where we might find ourselves starting to feel left out and unable to catch up. These feelings could then result in pressure and hopelessness making you lose the motivation that you need to continue your plans, dreams, and whatever it is you are so passionate about.

Fortunately, one of the best and simplest ways to cope with this problem is by searching and building your own solitude.

Each person has different preferences in building their own solitude but how exactly do you build your solitude? Solitude is something that you need to choose for the sake of yourself. Choose a time and a place where you can be alone with your thoughts and the only companion you can bring is yourself. At the same time, accept the fact that you are alone and that there is nothing wrong with it because it is what you need in order to grow.

After that, all that is left for you to do is take your time, enjoy the quiet or whatever means necessary to achieve inner peace, it could be binge reading your favorite book series indoors or being one with nature outdoors. Make it a personal task to spend each solitary moment to explore and learn something new about yourself every day. Which part of yourself do you find fascinating and worthy of sharing? This will give you a chance to capture your own perspective and realize things you have never thought about before. These thoughts will then refresh your mind for the new challenges in life that are yet to come. Give yourself back the authority to manage your own life rather than having them run by the world’s expectations and demands.

Think of it this way, whenever you feel disconnected to anyone or anything, use it to your advantage and turn it into a positive thing by taking time to provide yourself a wonderful and sufficient company, yourself. Look at that person in the mirror and revitalize your mind by learning what makes that person special and worthy of loving, because it is in solitude where your mind regains its strength and learns to depend upon itself. It is in the presence of solitude where one will begin to realize that one is not completely alone, where in the poorest of noise, one finds the richest answers leading to richness of oneself.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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Art and the Pursuit of Happiness

by Emmanuel Sabado Executive Officer for Professional Development Rotaract Club of De La Salle University Bacchante (1894)

by William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905)

Take a look at a painting that strikes you the most. Now try tuning in to a song that you feel like listening to. You might notice that while doing these, you feel like you are being immersed in a different world. It could be a sublime, pleasant and melodic one, but it could also be energetic, upbeat, unnerving, sometimes even tragic. Experiencing such realities in a single piece of art often leaves us with a sense of awe, sometimes even wonder for those who would dare to ponder.

From these, we could say that art’s purpose in our lives is simply that of escapism. Yet, we must realize that there is something more to art than just that. As the nature of art is usually an interpretation of reality, the type of art that we tend to appreciate often reflects on how we would like our life to be. It gives us an ideal, a model of what our world could be if we could have our own way; an ideal which could inspire us and propel us to greater heights.

For this reason, art instills in our lives a greater meaning, a purpose. It ceases to be a mere object for occasional and short-lived pleasures. Instead, it becomes an instrument of inspiration that makes us strive for excellence. As our lives are spurred into activities and actions of this kind of excellence, we are eventually led to a state of eudaimonia, which the ancient Greeks described as the highest state of well-being and form of happiness that one could achieve. Reaching such a point in life gives us a sense of fulfillment, which results in a higher form of happiness as we get the impression that we are living a meaningful and purposeful life.

Given this potential that art alone could bring into our lives, the mere desire to achieve things such as fulfillment and long-term happiness should be enough for us to consider the true value of art. Its true power lies not just in the mere pleasure of enjoying it, but rather in its ability to inspire and to motivate us. It is now up to us to look at art not just as a given, but as a potent weapon that we can wield in inspiring ourselves and other people to be the best of what they could possibly be.

The Flame of Passion

by Charlene Mae Canlas Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

Art is something more powerful than we could ever imagine.

Just a simple sketch, a single stroke of a brush, a splatter of color on a plain white canvas, can tell you hundreds or even thousands of stories.

I, myself, am an artist. I don’t consider myself a professional one because I am still searching for my art style but I have created hundreds of masterpieces since when I started painting at the age of 16. At first, I did not expect that I will become someone who I wanted to be when I was still starting, and since then, art has changed everything about me. Art became the source of my strength and I have found serenity in it. I can say that I became a better woman because of honing my talents particularly in the field of visual arts. On the other hand, there are times that I doubted my talent in painting because I was creating something different from what the people expect from my art but I realized that I make art, not for everyone else’s recognition. I create not to impress but to express what I feel inside.

I love making surreal and ocean-themed paintings because it gives me an incredible kind of feeling that I really can’t explain through words. Whenever I look at my ocean art pieces, I can feel the sense of tranquility in my soul and it is something that I want to attain till I grow old.

Whenever I feel burned out from school work and other responsibilities, I just grab my brush and paint. It is precisely therapeutic to me to the fact that I feel good after I create or finish an artwork. I feel confident and productive all over again.

Art keeps me sane, it improves my overall mental health but just like any other artist, I have seasons of art block. It is where artists feel uninspired or unmotivated to create something. It’s one of the hardest phases of my life because whenever I am art blocked, it affects the overall mood that makes me anxious. It takes weeks or even months to get out of being art blocked but the moment you walk out from that season, you will feel the flame of passion in your nerves. You will have this kind of energy to create more.

Art is powerful in the sense that it can bring you and your audience a sense of serenity and at the same time you can also bring stories and information. Art can change a person’s perception, both in a good or bad way. That's why I always believe that as an artist, I have this kind of power to inspire, inform, and educate people through my art. Even though some people could not appreciate art pieces, I will always drive myself to create because I feel passionate about my art, I feel passionate about inspiring and educating people through my masterpieces. That's why I always encourage and support young artists because I know that they will have a huge contribution in shaping our society.

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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3810

HEART an Art & Photo Gallery by 3810 Rotaractors

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The Eyes

by TP Sheena Chan Velasco Rotaract Club of STI College

Doggy Haven

by PP Krystene Bello Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Genesis and the End Times

by IPP Ralph Baniqued Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

Safe Space and Flipping Pages

by PE Daniel Kitma Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Adapting to e-Learning

by Charlene Mae D. Canlas Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

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Puhon: En cada oscuridad, hay esperanza y brillo

by IPP Mark Ababao Rotaract Club of Manila Bay

Too Much Positivity is Toxic

by TP Derique Casio Rotaract Club of Manila Metro

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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Depression is…

by DPD Ae Laudencia Rotaract Club of Manila

Ako Muna

by Neil Beatriz Rotaract Club of Imus

Musmos

by DPID Jex Espineli Rotaract Club of Dasmariñas City

Planor

by DDRAR Coleene Villanueva Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

The Official Publication of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3810

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Wandering

by IPP Karla Partricia Ravida Rotaract Club of Manila

Good Days

by DRAR Marj Madrigal Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

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Audie Laudencia Managing Editor Rotaract Club of Manila

Marj Madrigal Writer/ Layout Artist Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

Karla Ravida Writer/ Proofreader Rotaract Club of Manila

Derique Casio Writer/ Copy Editor Rotaract Club of Manila Metro

Ralph Baniqued Writer/ Proofreader Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Coleene Villanueva Writer/ Copy Editor Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

Daniel Kitma Writer/ Proofreader Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Krystene Bello Writer/ Copy Editor Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Jex Espineli Artist/ Photo Editor Rotaract Club of Dasmariñas City

Mark Ababao Writer/ Copy Editor Rotaract Club of Manila Bay