The 3810- November+December 2020

VOL 01 ISSUE 04 NOV-DEC 2020

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

IN this ISSUE

Features RDLT 2020

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Give & Do Good in the World

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Doing Our Part

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Events |10| Rotaract Upskill |11| RAC PUP’s TP and VP emcee PUP-wide Suicide Awareness Webinar

|12| My Speechcraft Experience

Disease Prevention: What can Rotaract do to help?

|14| Kids Equal Future Year 1

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|15| Cash Assistance & Relief

12 Days of Christmas Kindness Celebrating (Apart) this Christmas

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Adding Value to Your 13th Month Pay

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10 Ideal Christmas Gifts for Titos and Titas during the New Norm

for Typhoon Victims

|15| Handog Edukasyon for Tulunan Elementary School

|16| Nurses' Week 2020 Celebration |16| Handog Edukasyon for

Must See Christmas Movies

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Hidden Object Game

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|22| World Polio Day

Christmas Rotaract Bingo

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|23| Painting the Town RED: World Polio Day

Jose Corazon De Jesus Elementary School

|24| Oh, What a Night! |26| Fellowship Photos

Collaboration by

President Derique Casio & PE Diane Casio - Rotaract Club of Manila Metro, Director Kenny & PE Abigael Sarmiento - Rotaract Club of Manila, and President AJ Arellano - Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

In the midst of the Rotaract District 3810 community, with their right arms raised, Rotaractors repeated an age-old vow done by their predecessors.

“All of these I impose upon myself voluntarily, without mental reservation or purpose of evasion. So help me God... ” I am now officially inducted. These words echoed true to all district officers, presidents and officer Rotaractors in RDLT 2020, and will continue to echo in their hearts until the end of their term. Rotaract District Leadership Training (RDLT) is an annual event where Rotaractors gather to be formally inducted and to be trained into one occasion.

Leaders need training as being one is never easy.

The road is paved with challenges left and right.

Regardless of that, we’re reminded by our transformational leaders and mentors of today that we are capable of so much more. DRC Chock Encabo from Rotary Club of Metro Escolta (welcoming remarks), DG Odie Tarriela from the Rotary Club of Lubang Island (special message), Vice President of the Phillippines Leni Robredo (message), and IDG Lisa (message) were among these guests in these sessions. Truly, they’ve inspired us to always remember that as a Rotaract leader, we have the potential to create a positive impact and better world for our communities.

In this event, Honorable and distinguished speakers shared their best practices and project management to the young leaders who are the drivers of societal change. The participants were clustered into four groups based on their responsibilities and to ensure the topics are tailored-fit accordingly. Here are the key highlights and takeaways from this landmark event:

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

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PANEL

PANEL

Planning and Reporting Award-Winning Projects

Best Practices for Club Reporting, Social Media Engagement, & Rotaract Branding

Presidents | Community Service Directors

Four distinct Rotaract Outstanding Projects Award (ROPA) nominees presented to balance the overwhelming grit and passion to the club heads responsible for the effectiveness and sustainability of projects. The seasoned and innovative individuals namely CP Mhon Brasas (Green Environment), Rtn. Jess Dela Cruz (Agak a Badjao), IPP Karla Ravida (Heartfelt), and DRAR Gia Ciriaco (Umpisa na bata) illuminated the Presidents and Community Service Directors to take charge in aiding the societal needs.

Although varying in their approach, what made them consistent was the lessons that they had. Projects must make an impact on the community, and these members must love and nurture it as much. Its reach must capture not just your club, but also multiple sectors in society, such as government, other NGOs, etc. Its planning and monitoring should be backed up by data and research, so as to solve the root cause of the problem. Its leaders must commit to adapt the project yearly, and allow it to be easily replicable by other clubs. Lastly, the mindset of every stakeholder should be to improve the lives of others through their projects. With these, lies the essence of the ROPA. “I entered the room with a mindset of chasing the award, yet I left it with a realisation of what truly matters…”

– Derique

Secretaries | Public Image Directors

The session has efficiently enabled the Secretaries and Public Image Directors to utilize the District resources in furthering the Secretaries’ operational processes of Club Reporting base from the expertise of DS Rizzalyn Vargas and DRRE Ian De Borja. Furthermore, DPD Ae Laudencua and DPID Jex Espineli upskilled the collaterals of the Public Image Directors to be appealing to the audience while being consistent with the Rotaract branding and tools.

As our club’s secretary, I learned and appreciated the tips on how to play our roles effectively. One of my key highlights was the discussion on the Rotaract Branding as an international brand. As a newbie Rotaractor, it made me grasp more all of the terms and guidelines of Rotaract.

Furthermore, the speakers also gave tips on how to create online pubs/posters for projects by emphasizing the use of colors and how it should match the tone or mood of the project; they even suggested different platforms and applications that are useful for beginners. In relation to the poster, they also taught us on how to caption our social media posts in a simple, but very effective manner that will catch the attention of those reading it.

It was inspiring to hear from seasoned Rotaractors since they experienced similar challenges and are knowledgeable about the topics.

TALK

TALK

Fundraising & The Rotary Foundation

Innovative Projects During the Pandemic

Treasurers | Foundation Directors | Finance Directors

Club Service Directors Professional Development Directors International Service Directors

AKS Bing Carrion enlightened the Treasurers, Foundation and Finance Directors to successfully engrave the principles of “Fundraising and The Rotary Foundation'', thereby fully equipping the financial operations of the various clubs.

Her talk aimed to inspire a sense of collaboration between Rotaractors and Rotarians. She stressed the new status of Rotaractors being formally recognized as not just a program but as a member of Rotary International. We must take initiative in coordinating with our Rotarians in joint fundraising projects.

As President-Elect of my club, hearing the talk reminded me of our partnership with our sponsoring clubs which made me agree to what AKS Bing Carrion mentioned. Instead of seeking sponsorship or monetary support from our Rotary partners, why not plan a fundraiser together. That collaboration would incite the feeling of accomplishment and autonomy more for us Rotaractors as we’re the one who’s generating the funds for our projects.

Partnering with our Rotary Clubs would also start a trend of apprenticeship between them and us, as this will be an avenue where they can teach us how to make our projects more sustainable.

I left the room with not just a plan on my mind but with a vision of partnership.

DGN Joyce Ambray (Rotary Club of Manila Premiery) elevated the Club Service, Professional Development, and International Service Directors response to crafting “Innovative Projects During the Pandemic”, which tackles holistic and relevant initiatives for the benefit of the vulnerable sectors. Her approach was unlike other breakout rooms as she divided the attendees into two groups who came together to solve two problems she gave. The Directors then pitched their strategic plans of action on how to successfully launch a project in light of the pandemic.

These participants did not disappoint DGN Joyce, as she was amazed by how each group creatively took on the problem to create innovative solutions that could not have been done outside the pandemic.

She wrapped up the session with a story and cited Tom Moore. Tom is a veteran who aimed to raise 1000 euros by walking 100 lengths of his garden before his 100th birthday but ended up raising around 33 million euros for the NHS. What amazed me about this example was not how much Tom raised but how humble his goal was. He did not set a goal that was too far out of his reach.

That’s something to keep in mind specially for us officers.

As officers, we tend to pursue idealism because we want our projects to go beyond and succeed, but that sometimes is the reason our project becomes too complex to be executed properly. A solution doesn’t need to be overly systematic to solve a problem, sometimes a few steps is all it needs to be good.

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

Although attended online, RDLT 2020 was very familiar to the old custom RDLT. The addition of four different breakout rooms gave everyone a variety of topics, and a chance for every attendees to work together updating their clubmates of their sessions. Indeed, it brought clubs to further the discussion and facilitate growth of all officers.

Compared to previous large scale online events, RDLT 2020 proved to be the smoothest event I’ve attended so far. The transition from each portion of the program to

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the other was seamless proving how prepared the organizers were. It’s attendees also contributed to the success of the program as proper online etiquette was observed. This conference just goes to show how far we’ve come in adapting to the pandemic, and how much further we’ll go as Rotaractors.

At the end of RDLT, it proves how much District 3810 has set a high standard of quality and excellence for its leaders. Overall, making this RDLT 2020 become a landmark event.

Give & Do Good in the World

by DRC Chock Encabo Rotary Club of Metro Escolta

“The Rotary Foundation is not to build monuments of brick and stone. If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work on brass, time will efface it; if we rear temples they will crumble into dust; but if we work upon immortal minds…we are engraving on those tablets something that will brighten all eternity.”

— Arch C. Klumph, December 1928

November is the Rotary Foundation month. It is during this time where we recognize the contributions made by our Rotarians and Rotaractors. The collected efforts exerted by various Rotary and Rotaract clubs all over the world to contribute to the foundation is truly one great act to be celebrated and recognized.

But more than the recognition, it is the fact that our donations thru the foundation have saved and changed countless lives is what truly matters. As members of the Rotary family, we are all aware that the Rotary Foundation is the heart of Rotary International. But what does the Rotary Foundation really do? Why is there a need to contribute to the foundation?

The Rotary Foundation is the product of Rotary International President Arch C. Klumph's vision when he proposed an endowment "for the purpose of doing good in the world" in 1917. As the charitable arm of Rotary, the Rotary Foundation transforms our gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. Its mission is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. We can choose where to give and how much to give.

We, as part of the Rotary International family, are all called to make a difference and we can all be successful in reaching out to more people who are in need if we give to the Rotary Foundation. No matter how big or small, our contribution matters. When we give, we can be sure that we can support a child to continue his or her education...we can contribute in building and empowering communities... we can save a mother from any harm during her pregnancy… we can help community leaders to promote peace… we can help provide safe water, support sanitation and hygiene projects… And we can save the environment. Together, we can all do good in this world.

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

Doing Our Part

by Club Service Director Kenny Clavero Rotaract Club of Manila

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In 1917, Rotary President Arch Clump donated $26.50 as seed money for a cause which after 10 years would be named as The Rotary Foundation. That amount of course is worth 20 or 30 times today, but it is not the amount I’d like to focus on, rather the concept of “Seed Money”.

This Rotary Year marks a keystone in the evolution of Rotaract as it is now considered a membership type of Rotary International instead of a Rotary Program. This symbolizes the recognition of Rotaract’s effort over the years and personally, it symbolizes Rotary International investing in the youth (Rotaract) to start sowing their seeds to success at a young age.

The Rotary Foundation provides funding over the years to multiple grants that helps causes related to Rotary International’s Six Areas of Focus. As Rotaractors, we pledge ourselves to be of service to our community, but sometimes our actions feel menial compared to movements or projects of other clubs or people, that is if we look at it in an additive sense.

Our contributions may only make up a small portion of the movement, but its impact on the cause is much bigger in comparison.

The money you donated, no matter how small, will increase the amount of budget our cause that we care about has. The donation you make can influence or inspire people to make donations as well. In our generation right now, we don’t even need to donate money ourselves to raise funds for the cause, simply sharing the post or story that there is a movement for the cause would allow people to donate to it.

Also, if you spread word that there is a movement for the cause, and your connections are more than willing to be part of that movement, then you have increased the number of people helping out. And hopefully, that person that you inspired, will also become a part of your club increasing your club’s potential to contribute to the movement.

We are now recognized as a type of member of a Rotary International. We have to start appreciating the smallest contributions we make and look at what it’ll become in the future. Whether it’d be recruitment, raising awareness, or fund raising, it was by your actions that opened opportunities.

Disease Prevention: What can Rotaract do to help?

by Deputy DRAR Coleene Villanueva Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars

In this month of disease prevention, you might be wondering about how your club can help - be it in the form of awareness campaigns, medical missions, donation drives, and/or community partnerships. To guide you with that, here is some information that you can tap as you start your club’s journey towards contributing to advocacies on disease prevention.

Campaigns for Immunization

In some countries, progress is stalled or even reversed. In the Philippines, for instance, a lot of poor communities remain to be active disease-prone areas due to the highly contagious nature of childhood vaccinepreventable diseases, coupled with the low vaccination rate and lack of herd immunity in those areas. In response to this, our health agencies have developed mid-term routine immunization enhancement and epidemic preparedness, but despite these efforts, the Philippines still has a low immunization turnout according to UNICEF.

Outbreaks will continue to happen if the sub optimal routine immunization is not addressed. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), “immunization currently prevents 2-3 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza and measles.� Immunization is also one of the best health investments money can buy. Yet despite these tremendous progress, nearly 20 million infants still have insufficient access to vaccines.

The recent issue concerning Dengvaxia has stirred public distrust towards vaccines which eventually caused a rise to cases of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, diphtheria, and most especially, the long-gone polio. Health groups are encouraging different volunteer and support groups to raise awareness on the value and importance of immunization and vaccination, and also help in making these vaccines accessible to far-flung and disease-prone areas.

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Clean Water, Hygiene, & Sanitation To eradicate Polio has been Rotary’s staple as a leading non-profit organization making a difference at a global scale. In fact, they were the ones who championed the complete eradication of the said disease in the Philippines in 1999. However, in October 2019, new cases of polio were recorded - surprising the Department of Health which immediately declared an outbreak of the said disease. Current DOH Secretary Francisco Duque cited “poor immunization coverage,” lack of sanitation and proper hygiene, and poor surveillance by health workers as reasons as to why the disease has returned.

A recent report from DOH revealed that out of 142 water samples that were tested, 26 (25 from the National Capital Region, and one from Davao City) tested positive for polio -- placing the residents living near these bodies of water at risk of acquiring said disease. While local government units and private groups are working together to perform social mobilization, health and hygiene promotion, and health education, only few of these groups have addressed the root cause of the problem inaccessibility to clean water.

Disadvantaged communities in Lanao del Sur and Davao City have started receiving centralized sources of clean water, while residents are taught to address problems in poor hygiene and lack of sanitation. However, there is still a lot of work to be done in terms of providing clean water to all Filipinos.

According to the WHO, around 1 in 10 Filipinos still do not have access to improved water sources. In 2016 alone, one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the Philippines was acute watery diarrhoea, claiming over 139 000 lives. The inadequate and intermittent water supply in the Philippines is a serious problem because when water is scarce, people are often forced to rely on drinking water sources that may not be safe. They may also lack sufficient water for basic hygiene - to wash themselves and their clothes, and to prevent infection including from foodborne and waterborne diseases. Organizations, like Rotary and Rotaract, are vital in serving as aid in these kinds of problems.

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Healthcare Facilities The shortage of hospitals and surgical equipment are the primary barriers to quality healthcare in the Philippines. Almost half of Filipinos residing in rural areas have little to no access to quality healthcare facilities.

Meanwhile, some areas that are fortunate to be near facilities sometimes are ill-equipped with broken medical devices, and have no licensed medical doctors to attend to their needs.

Another report from WHO revealed that “many health centres lack sanitation service, basic facilities for hand hygiene and safe segregation and disposal of health care waste.” These are crucial to preventing infections, reducing the spread of antimicrobial resistance and providing quality care, particularly for safe childbirth.

The shortage of medical equipment including hospital beds is so bad that according to the World Bank, the Philippines in general only has 1 bed per 1000 people.

This is in comparison to our neighboring countries in ASEAN with 11 to 13 beds per 1000 people. On top of this, six out of 10 Filipinos die without seeing a doctor, according to a study conducted by the University of the Philippines. The high cost of health care in the country prevents people from accessing life-saving services, and drowns families further into poverty.

These are just some of the issues surrounding disease prevention in the country. As you see, there are multiple ways for organizations to contribute. With our experience with the pandemic, the return of polio, and continuously rising cases in other kinds of diseases, the country’s efforts, together with our assistance, must be doubled in order to ensure that the most vulnerable sector of our communities - the poor, children, and elderly - are protected from preventable diseases and have access to properly and quality healthcare..

As the youth, we are at an impressive advantage as we are equipped with powerful tools such as social media which make it easy for us to influence more people into pitching in donation drives; to spread disease prevention awareness; and to connect with the rest of the world to work hand in hand towards a world that is safe and healthy. Remember, in Rotaract, any time is a good time to help. Besides, there really is no perfect time to help.

Educate yourself, friends, clubmates, and families about disease prevention; and together, start something today.

Rotaract Upskill

by PD Director Arvin Reyes Rotaract Club of Manila

Last October 30, the Rotaract Club of Manila held its first-ever UpSkill workshop via Zoom. UpSkill is a bimonthly series of workshops geared towards imparting participants with practical skills that they can try out on their own immediately. The current lineup of topics for UpSkill ranges from entrepreneurship to investing. For the October workshop, the topic was all about creating and/or expanding one’s e-commerce business, specifically by utilizing the Shopee platform. The workshop was conducted by Mr. Christian “Lee” Contreras, acquisition manager from Shopee Philippines, Inc. Mr. Contreras demonstrated the different features of the Shopee platform, from creation of accounts to using Shopee analytics tool, as well as provided pointers and insights on how to improve and expand one’s e-commerce presence online.

He also discussed about preferred seller and the Shopee incubation program to the thirty (30) participants that were present during the event. With the mission of empowering

people with actionable knowledge, UpSkill by Rotaract Club of Manila is open to everyone and is currently free of charge. For more details on upcoming UpSkill workshops and information on how to participate, you may contact Arvin Christopher Reyes, current Professional Service Director of the Rotaract Club of Manila.

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RAC PUP’s TP and VP emcee PUP-wide Suicide Awareness Webinar

by President Kyle Cedric Hezeta

Rotaract Club of Polytechnic University of the Philippines

The COVID-19 pandemic did damage not only to the way we live, but it has also taken a toll on our mental health. This proves true as the National Center for Mental Health reports a major spike on calls from Filipinos suffering from mental health issues.

To contribute to information dissemination and awareness on the issue, the PUP Office of Psychological Services, in partnership with the PUP Office of Student Services launched its Mental Health Week celebration featuring a series of webinars shedding light on specific mental health issues during this pandemic.

Transformational President Kyle Cedric Hezeta and Vice President Kristine Kyla Sabate were masters of ceremonies on the third part of the series, which focused on suicide prevention and awareness last Wednesday, October 28, 2020.

With 1,000 live viewers and a total of 8,600 viewers as of writing, the webinar was attended by faculty members, employees, and students across the PUP System. Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga, CCOP, RPsy from the Office of Student Services, the webinar’s guest speaker, emphasized on the signs that we should look for in a suicidal person, as well as the ways to help them when

needed. The speaker also introduced breathing exercises effective in reducing anxiety and thoughts of committing suicide.

“It is okay to not be okay in a not okay situation,” Dr. Lopiga said, emphasizing on the importance of feeling what we feel, and not be afraid to seek help from friends, family, and mental health professionals. VP Kyla summed up her takeaway with a quote from the Netflix series “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”. VP Kyla quotes, “You shouldn’t be embarrassed about being sad.”

During time when everyone is adjusting to the new normal, we should be taking the higher ground by being kind and more understanding to everyone around us. By saying a simple “kumusta,” you may be saving someone’s life. If anything, a friend, or a family member can come handy now that we are at a brink of breaking down because of what is happening. Call a friend, seek help when needed, and spread love – we as a community will get through this together.

My Speechcraft Experience

by DRAR Gia Ciriaco

Rotaract Club of Pasay Cyber City

Most people state public speaking as one of their worst fears. There’s always that mix of anxiety and physical discomforts like stomach growling, or sweaty palms. There’s also that fear of saying or doing the wrong things. Many people who have this fear can list down multiple scenarios as to how things will go south.

In my case, I’ve always loved public speaking. As a child, I joined speech choirs and was a lector for the church. It was easy for me to build my career in the BPO industry because of this but there’s always that drive to learn and improve further. Just recently, I started my own podcast to exercise my speaking skills and share stories with others. I strongly believe that strong communication skills are essential in every industry and more importantly, when you want to make an impact in the world and build a strong influence, a good voice is just as important as a good message.

Early last Rotary year, there were talks about Rotary International and Toastmasters International collaborating and I thought, it’s great to be empowered by an equally empowering organization that would truly support our leadership goals and strengthen our skills. I’ve heard a lot of wonderful things about Toastmasters and hearing this partnership made me even more excited to participate and know what it’s all about.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs.

Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization's membership exceeds 364,000 in more than 16,200 clubs in 145 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.

This Transformational Year, the Pilipinas MDIO partnered up with Toastmasters International District 75 to start the first ever Speechcraft. Speechcraft is a Toastmasters program where Toastmasters present the fundamentals of public speaking to potential members and partners. 50 Rotaractors from all 10 districts participated and had the wonderful opportunity to enhance their speaking skills and discover how this can be beneficial as leaders of their respective clubs and districts.

All participants were required to complete the Rotary and Toastmasters modules on Rotary Learning Center. Each module contains helpful information that would help them prepare for their respective speeches and be able to deliver them with confidence. After which, the Speechcraft proper was done with the Toastmasters. Each Rotaractor had the chance to write their speech, discussing any topic as long as it is not religion or politics, deliver the speech and get feedback and evaluation from seasoned Toastmasters.

I was part of the first batch and it was hard for me to choose what to talk about. I figured the theme for this year is Rotary Opens Opportunities and it would be a great opportunity to share one really surprising fact about me and how I pulled through, took every opportunity I had. I practiced and applied what I learned, taking time to check if all elements are present (how I emphasize words, how I look at the camera, what gestures I make) and if my speech is within the 5 minute time limit (I ramble a lot).

My preparations paid off and I was chosen as the Best Speaker of my batch. I’m truly happy not just as a speaker but as a representative of my district. I believe that District 3810 has a lot of great communicators and that we have to put ourselves out there more to share the amazing things we do.

With the success of Speechcraft, I want to thank Pilipinas MDIO and Toastmasters International District 75 for this opportunity and I hope more Rotaractors get to join the next collaborations so they can speak up and be able to communicate and increase the impact of Rotaract through the stories they share, through experiences they talk about. As people of action, we can encourage people to do the same- we just need to raise our voice and use it for the love of service.

Sharing the transcript of my speech, Degree.

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

“DEGREE” Fellow Rotaractors, Toastmasters, friends, good afternoon. I’m Gia Ciriaco from the Rotaract Club of Pasay Cyber City. I’ll be talking about DEGREES. DEGREE. My topic has various definitions, different perspectives and can be used in multiple disciplines. A degree, the first definition my simple Google search brought to me, is the amount, level, or extent to which something happens or is present. The other common definitions include a unit of measurement of angles and various scales of temperature, intensity, or hardness.

When we talk about law, it’s the legal grade of crime or offense, especially murder. When it’s used in the medical field, it is used to classify burns according to their severity.

Lastly, when we talk about achievements, degree is an academic rank conferred by a college or university after examination or after completion of a course of study, or as an honor on a distinguished person.

It’s my 10th year in the corporate world and you’d be surprised to know that I made it this far without a college degree. Most people would probably have the same story since most progressive thinking companies now highlight the capabilities and experience, wellroundedness of an individual versus what school they graduated in or what Latin honors they got. Don’t get me wrong, these are outstanding things to have and hard work should always be recognized. However, it takes a lot of perseverance to be at par with academic achievers and the circumstances I put myself into were no easy feat either.

I was doing and I’ve felt varying degrees of fulfillment in every way whether it’s getting certified or getting picked to present in front of a client at an agent level or hearing customers say great things about you. The 6 month time bomb I set on myself became non-existent. Each year leveled up my experience and made me realize how much I’ve done, how much I learned just by taking action, learning to view things from different perspectives.

Throughout these 10 years, I progressed from a trainee, agent, team leader, engagement leader for an account, engagement leader for the entire company and now, human resources officer. I’ve also expanded my network by joining organizations such as Rotaract. I can see the world through the perspectives of communities I help and people I meet. Each role with varying degrees of difficulty that would require a lot of my patience, how coolly I can keep up with the demands and how fiery my passion can take me. Whenever I feel lost, I can always circle back to the basics or lower my pride, seek help, apologize. It’s still movement, being able to adjust from 45 to 90 to 180, make a 360. It’s also an opportunity for you to experience another degree of fulfillment, growing from each role and helping others see that in themselves.

Despite the circumstances then until now, I’m at a degree, a position where I am satisfied keeping this movement consistent. Seeing the highs and lows and how it can teach me something, how it can keep my gauges going, despite not having a college degree, I know can have a higher degree of fulfilment in life.

Thank you.

On my 3rd year of college at an online university, I decided to drop out. I wasn’t happy with myself and I felt that I could do more. Most stories about quitting school you’d probably heard about would have angles on financial challenges, difficulty coping up with academics, family issues or relocation. Mine was probably just a seemingly lazy excuse to quit school. So I decided to go to one of those mall job fairs to give it a shot and fortunately, I got accepted at this lesser known but strong, the best, not the biggest, call center company in Makati City.

Initially, I thought I’d last a maximum of 6 months. I was one of those so-called Call Center Virgins innocently making it through each day, adjusting to time zones, serving customers, solving problems. It wasn’t a walk in the park, regardless of experience level. Everyday there’s a challenge and some might see it as a perpetual struggle but when I look at it differently, slowly moving, slowly going from 45 degrees, to 90 degrees, each movement means taking action, each movement comes with something new to learn every day. Going through each step, each valuable degree, I became stronger, I began to see purpose in what

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Kids Equal Future Year 1 Rotaract Club of Cavite Economic Zone 17/10/2020

Orphanages often lack access to good quality education. Through this project, in partnership with Rotaract Club of Nuvali and Rotary Club of Nuvali, we distributed school supplies and other necessary items to the beneficiary institution. With this little act of kindness, we hope we inspire the young generation to continue striving hard and to reach their goals even despite being given with fewer resources.

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

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Cash Assistance & Relief for Typhoon Victims Rotaract Club of Aseana Manila 26/10/2020

In the midst of the crisis/typhoons we are facing, it is truly wonderful that our countrymen continue to help, whether in big or small things. We extend our gratitude to all the people who made this event happen.

Handog Edukasyon for Tulunan Elementary School Rotaract Club of Manila 27/10/2020

In support of the learning continuity plan of Jose Corazon De Jesus Elementary School, the Rotaract Club of Manila, under the Handog Edukasyon Program, partnered with the Michigan State University’s Schoenl Family Foundation for Dire Needs Overseas to provide the institution with a Pisonet unit.

The unit will provide internet connectivity which helps the institution to have a more meaningful and joyful learning experience for their 1,447 students and 49 teaching and non-teaching personnel during this trying time.

Nurses' Week 2020 Celebration Rotaract Club of Manila Supreme 198 31/10/2020

Rotaract Club of Manila Supreme 198 and RC Manila Supreme 198 wanted to honor our heroes in their special week.

The clubs invited the Pasay City Health Nurses for a little get together. By making a short video of appreciation, small talks and games, we were able to put smiles on their faces.

Handog Edukasyon for Jose Corazon De Jesus Elementary School Rotaract Club of Manila 08/10/2020

The Rotaract Club of Manila, through its partnership with EduKonek, a civilian-led initiative that supports blended and distant learning of Filipino students, was able to provide learning gadgets and mobile data worth Php 55,000 to Tulunan Elementary School in North Cotabato.

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

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

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World Polio Day Rotaract Club of Imus 24/10/2020

“No more than ever: End Polio Forever�

As part of the World Polio Day celebration, the Rotaract Club of Imus joined the #EndPolio campaign to raise awareness and share progress to polio eradication. And yes, we are this close đ&#x;¤?đ&#x;?ť to ending polio

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Painting the Town RED: World Polio Day

by DRAR Gia Ciriaco

Rotaract Club of Pasay Cyber City

We are this close.

You’ve seen it all over social media, you’ve seen the celebrity photo campaigns, you’ve heard the great news about Africa and more. Every October, Rotary goes all out in promoting the End Polio Now campaign in celebration of World Polio Day. Poliomyelitis, most known as poliovirus, is a highly infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of 5. The virus is spread person to person, typically through contaminated water. It can attack the nervous system, and in some instances, lead to paralysis. Although there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine – one which Rotary and our partners use to immunize over 2.5 billion children worldwide. Unless we eradicate polio, within 10 years, as many as 200,000 new cases could occur around the world each year. In the past few years, only two countries have reported cases of polio caused by the wild virus, but no child anywhere is safe until we’ve vaccinated every child.

October 24 is World Polio Day and that bright, beautiful Saturday, for the first time in a long time, Rotary District 3810 gathered in public to promote and spread awareness to end polio all over the world. Rotary District 3810 led by District Governor Odie Tarriela, had a motorcade and photo op (observing social distancing and wearing RED with PPEs) near the Rizal Park monument to celebrate World Polio Day. All district areas from Cavite, Manila, Occidental Mindoro and Pasay were well represented to support this momentous occasion.

Of course, Rotaract District 3810 was alive and present headed by DRR Rhyan Satoquia and the Transformational Presidents. Each Rotactor came in full force with their clubs and also supporting their respective sponsoring Rotary Clubs.

Despite the challenges this pandemic posed, every club, every Rotarian and Rotarator took the opportunity to make the world polio free regardless where they are- may it be joining the motorcades, purchasing premium End Polio premium items, sharing End Polio collaterals and donating to The Rotary Foundation at the comfort of their own home. Every action counts and these actions are proof that Rotary and Rotaract are strong forces in bringing out everyone’s potential and empowering service.

Oh, What a Night!

by Secretary Roy Anselmo M. Jaluag Rotaract Club of San Antonio De Padua

On October 31, 2020, at 8:00 PM the Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua held its fundraising project entitled “Hoopla Night” a game night filled with fun and engaging activities which also served as a fundraising activity for the End Polio campaign of Rotary International.

“Hoopla Night” was an innovative fundraising activity that blends fun, engagement, and laughter while still following general community quarantine guidelines through the use of Zoom.

The End Polio Campaign is an effort spearheaded

by Rotary International to eradicate the Polio Virus from every nation through fundraising for its research.

This Hoopla Night was joined by various Rotaract Club members in which they participated in a night of fun and laughter. The said event was divided into three categorical activities namely: “Ubusan Game”, “Guessing Game” and “Memorizing Game” in which winners of each activity determine the overall champion of the night. By the end of the night, three winners were proclaimed namely: IPP Ralph Baniqued, Sec. Roy Jaluag and CCSD John Rex Quiambao.

With the success of the Hoopla Night, the club was able to raise a total of PHP. 2,640.00 to be directly donated to the End Polio Fund of the Rotary International.

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TRANSCEND: RAC-SADP’s 24th Handover & 25th Induction Ceremony

by PE Daniel Kitma

Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua

Last November 7, the Rotaract Club of San Antonio de Padua celebrated its 24th Handover and 25th Induction Ceremony marking another milestone in the club’s history book.

With the help of the Rotary club of BagumbayanManila, the club’s sponsoring Rotary club, RAC-SADP was able to be the first club in District 3810 to celebrate a live Handover and Induction ceremonies held at Rizal Park Hotel Manila.

Unlike events prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic, enhanced safety protocols were observed such as wearing masks, face-shields and social distancing. All attendees were also advised to bring their own alcohol despite the Rizal Park hotel providing disinfectants.

Gracing the event with their attendance were District Governor Nominee Joyce Michelle Socorro L. Ambray, Rotary DCC Juanito Boy Kaw, RCBM Immediate Past President Willie Chua, RCBM Transformational President Rolly Policarpio, District Area Director Genin Policarpio, President Elect Nicholas Lim, New Generation Director Allen Rios, District Rotaract Representative Rhyan Satoquia, Immediate and Past District Rotaract Representative Erica Paywan-Florendo.

A much deserved recognition for his immense contribution and exceptional leadership was given to Immediate Past President Ralph Baniqued. IPP Ralph Baniqued, who spearheaded the first ever solo induction of

the club entitled “Hiraya” last term, and forged a partnership with DeAFDeaf truly sets a standard for future leaders of the club.

Transformational President Jean Tayag is no short of ideal qualities and is proving to be one of the great Presidents that the club has inducted. Already with two major projects, “Pasada para sa Namamasada” a donation drive for Jeepney drivers, and “Business 101: New Normal Edition virtual conference, she is set to put together more projects this Transformational year.

A fresh roster of club officers were introduced by the ever energetic DRR Rhyan Satoquia who also led the officers in their oath taking. Although virtually, new members were also charged into the club by Rotary DCC Juanito Boy Kaw. No event of the club cannot be complete without song numbers which are just what past, present and future club presidents Ralph Baniqued, Jean Tayag and Daniel Kitma showcased.

The future is bright for the club and “Transcend” is a testament to the club’s determination to defy the odds. A show of the club’s potential of rising above and beyond average.

Overall, the event has been a reunion and a reinvigoration of everyone’s spirits for service. The launch of a strong and united club.

07 October | Executive Board Meeting Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

11 October | BOD Retro Night Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

13 October | Operations Night Rotaract Club of De La Salle University 13 October | Reaccreditation Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

15 October | Externals Night Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

15 October | Committee Games Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

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16 October | Internals Night Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

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17 October | KEF: Tagaytay Night Rotaract Club of Cavite Economic Zone

29 October | Outreach Planning Rotaract Club of De La Salle University 31 October | EB Alignment w/ Faculty Adviser Rotaract Club of De La Salle University

31 October | Zoom-beer Fellowship Rotaract Club of Manila

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

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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 DasmariĂąas City

Mark Ababao Writer/ Copy Editor Rotaract Club of Manila Bay