This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Walter Cang during the handover of responsibilities in June 2024, reflecting upon RCC’s 91st year, and how its year unfolded – Editor

When I was inducted as your President a year ago, I stood before you and shared my journey on how I became a Rotarian.  I shared how it changed me and my view of how I should live my life.  I spoke of how the Rotary club of Cebu became part of my family and how it changed us through the lessons we gleaned from our service projects and community visits.  

In the past year, I was your best friend.  Reaching out to you every Wednesday or Thursday morning to remind you of our meeting.   Thank you for responding to me favorably.  I also wish to thank and assure your lovely spouses and partners that your man had attended our meetings like I asked them to.  Copies of our attendance log will be given at the door.  Seriously though, we averaged 70 percent attendance this year!  

I recounted how PP Ed Gaisano broke down my barrier to becoming President with the assurance that  “The club members will come together for you, for you are doing this for the club.”  A year hence, I can attest to our club’s spirit of service, coming together to make things happen.  I, alone, couldn’t have done what we have achieved without your help and so I wish to thank all our members for your contribution of your time, talent, and treasure.  

When my term was about to start, I was asked by many, how do I wish my year to be?  Was it going to be as frenetic as it was in the past?  Or was I going to put my feet up and take it easy?  

Truth is one never has a say as to how it will unfold. We make plans but as they say, the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.  And this year was no different.  

We have wrapped up 3 global grant projects this year.  Most notable being the Paypay National High School which ran for 9 years. Passing through the terms of 10 club presidents with a budget of $245,000. What began as a project to repair a school devastated by typhoon Yolanda became one that transformed the school and made them better and bigger from where they were before.

We also closed one of our fastest global grant projects, approved and wrapped up in less than 2 years, the Sisters of Mary School Boystown with a budget of $84,000 to purchase new equipment, supplies and training for their technical vocational program. On the day of the handover ceremony, we were informed that some of their graduating students have already been offered employment. It was music to our ears.

Our flagship project, Gift of Life continues to make its impact. 6.5 years since our first global grant we have gotten $558,000 in funding, augmented by $75,000 of funding from another partner.  This year, we have treated 91 patients and to date, we have touched the lives of 426 indigent infants, toddlers, teens and even young adults. 

In doing so we have lifted the emotional, and financial burden off the shoulders of their parents.  Where money for food, clothing, and supplies are diverted to buy medicine to sustain the child, an entire family suffers. Indeed, you can say we helped not just a patient, but families, and 426 families is a community.

Our 5th edition of the Run for Gift of Life, intended to raise funds and increase awareness of CHD, was held on Independence day just 10 days ago with 2024 runners – a symbolic occasion for a cause that emancipated the lives of young children from their birth defects.

Another project, Rotary Operation Save a Smile wrapped up after treating 24 patients on our 3rd mission.  The cleft lip and palate surgical program was undertaken with the program host, RC Yokosuka. We conducted 72 life-changing surgeries for indigent children that afforded them a real smile that was previously obscured by their deformity.

In 2021, inspired by the impact of this program, AKS member Bobong Castillo reached out to me with his vision of having a cleft lip and palate program in Cebu.  Not a one-time, big-time mission that we see every year, but one that relies on a team of local doctors, and a hospital willing to support us.  

A program that treats only a handful of patients, but done frequently so that at the end of a year, we will treat more patients at less than the cost of annual missions.  

 We found a partner in PAG Alain Senerpida of RC Cebu Fuente who will lead the surgical team, a community partner, AIL, and Perpetual Succour Hospital willing to host our program at a discounted rate. 2 weeks ago, AKS Bobong Castillo’s vision became reality when our application for this global grant to the tune of $43,000 was approved and released.  

 To help raise funds for our projects, we took part in last year’s Christmas Village of Love, selling naming rights to miniature homes and villages which I’m sure you are all familiar with.  The fund raising program courtesy of the MCCI brought in ₱500,000 half of which went to our project fund.

 To say RCC has leveraged grants for service projects would be an understatement.  In the last 10 years, we have tapped into $1.98 million and over $145,000 in Global and District Grants respectively.  

 But let me put this in better perspective by asking you not to look at the numbers as being reflective of our ability to spend money. But instead let it speak of how we are willing to work and properly use the funds that were entrusted to us.

 One thing I know is that there can never be a perfect Rotary year, but we had many perfect Rotary moments.  We also had challenges and setbacks but they were not failures for there were lessons learned.  Our WASH projects, a slam dunk in previous years, ground to a halt when TRF came up with new guidelines that our stakeholders were unable to implement.  

Despite our best efforts to keep it afloat, it knocked the wind of our sails.  But our frustration was short lived as we learned for ourselves that what TRF was pursuing was accountability from our recipients, the lack of which was haunting WASH projects worldwide after they were handed over to the beneficiaries.  It was not a failure because there were lessons learned. 

Our project to fit-out 4 laboratories at CCNSC has fallen by the wayside after our stakeholders could not come back to us with the required commitment on their part.  The lessons learned have been added to our club’s project guidelines that will help us hedge our chances for success in the future.  Not every project will be easy and not every undertaking will be straightforward but we know it is essential to get the job done and done right.

This year, we had a population boom.  There was no recruitment drive but we welcomed 10 baby Rotarians into our club.  Newer, younger blood in our ranks have reduced our median age but not the passion to serve.  If there is anything I wish for our new members, it would be for you to learn from and emulate the lives of Rotarians from our ranks who have sadly gone ahead of us this year.  May your future in our club be long and filled with the joy of fellowship and satisfaction of service.

To my District Governor, Rozanne Twinkle Gamboa.  You administered my oath of office last year and words cannot describe my gratitude as my term comes to an end. Thank you for being with me on my journey.  Even though your role required you to be everywhere for everyone, I was always able to count on you for everything, every time.  You were always just a call, or a text away.  Salamat kaayu.

To incoming President Shige, I look forward to your term because I am sure it will be fun.  I love your sense of humour and irreverence.  In fact, you may not be aware but my first impression of you when I joined the club was when you asked me if I was gay because I wore an earring.  

To my lovely wife Roxanne, thank you for staying put despite having told me not to accept the Presidency. And to let me travel with the boys, even over our wedding anniversary.  Your sacrifice has allowed me to leave a mark in this club that I hope will be around for years to come. 

And to my 3 girls Cassie, Alana, & Laura, who are getting more expensive each day, I wish to thank you for your patience and unwavering support as I went about my duty as President of the club. I love you and I have come to appreciate the 4 of you in my life more than ever.

Now that you 3 girls know what being a Rotarian is all about.  Please remember your first boyfriend when you turn 25, will have to recite the 4-way test in front of me – without reading.

And on this note, my fellow Rotarians and dear friends, I thank you for the privilege of your time.

This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Hector Almario during the handover of responsibilities in June 2023, reflecting upon RCC’s 90th year, its rich history, the legacy it has created and the role the club will continue play in the years to come – Editor

First and foremost, I want to thank my family: my wife, Angela; and my children Andie and Enzo. For their constant support behind the scenes during my tenure as president To my board members and committee chairs: It has been an absolute privilege to serve alongside such a committed group of individuals, united for a common cause. None of this would have been possible without you.

I would also like to thank Gov. Lilu, who has probably attended more of our project turnovers than 90% of our club members. No matter the situation, you can count on Gov. Lilu to be there: from lending her presence when foreign dignitaries would visit the club, to joining us for mountain treks where no high heel shoes dare tread. She even found time to join me for a working lunch in Melbourne with our Global Grant partner, the president of the GOL Foundation, which resulted in three more Global Grants for our club. Thank you to incoming Gov. Twinkle and spouse Pres. Archie for reaching out early on and supporting us in our club’s 90th year. I know you’ll be a great Governor.

To our members: I wish I had enough time to acknowledge and thank you all individually for the work that you do. I want to express my deepest gratitude to each one of you for your unwavering support and dedication throughout my tenure as president. It was an honor to have been chosen to lead the RCC during it’s an 90th year.

Today, we also mark a new beginning as we entrust the leadership of our club to a remarkable individual who has shown exceptional dedication and passion for our Rotary ideals. Our incoming president, Walter Cang, has an inspiring vision for the future, and Rotary’s vision to create hope in the world. I have complete confidence that under his guidance, our club will continue to flourish and grow.

During my term, I was challenged by RC President Jennifer Jones’ theme for the Rotary year: Imagine Rotary! I was ready to run with this and was already looking forward to my term as an imaginary President…but I was told we had to do more for our 90th year.

It was with that in mind that we decided on two main goals for the year:

1. Building a stronger foundation for the club, to position it for the next 100 years.
2. For our club to take more of a leadership role by supporting other clubs within the district.

To position our club for the future, we realized we needed a permanent home for the RCC. Our club is fortunate to have such a rich history and we knew this legacy needed to be preserved. Thanks to member donations, we are currently in the process of securing our own office. We also decided to rebuild our very own RCC Foundation, by rebalancing our contributions to the Rotary foundation. Charity begins at home, and this was another step to ensure that our club will be able to sustain its projects into the future.

We also chose to focus on renewing and strengthening our relationships with other clubs here and abroad: We had numerous Japanese and Korean clubs visit us for our 90th anniversary celebration bringing more contacts, fellowship, and potential funding for our future projects. I also made it a point to visit as many clubs and projects as possible. My Rotary year took me to Manila, Ormoc, Tacloban, Davao, Japan, Australia, in addition to our project handovers all over Cebu.

Rotarian leadership is leadership by example. Within our district, we wanted to commemorate our 90th anniversary and express our gratitude by offering our DDF to other clubs in support of their projects. Not just to thank them for supporting our club through the years, but to serve as an example. By “teaching others to fish” and paying it forward, we wanted to equip and inspire the other clubs in our district to reach the next level, win awards, and even obtain their own global grants.
As I step down from this role, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. The memories we have created, the impact we have made, and the friendships we have forged will forever hold a special place in my heart.

What started as a ‘sit-back-and-relax’ year ended with 79 congenital heart patients operated on from July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023. That’s 1.5 lives saved every week. We finished & closed 3 Global Grants this year. We had to. Our club had the distinction of hitting the limit of 10 open Global Grants. We could not apply for more unless we finished and closed some of these projects.

We donated 24,314 books to different entities. Rotaract Clubs, Rotary Club of Bohol, Cebu Province, 27 different schools and 3 complete libraries. We also have 15 more of these schools identified by another club that we mentored, the Rotary Club of Banilad Metro. None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary teamwork and collaboration that defines our Rotary club.

We also connected to 6 schools in mountain barangays for our WASH project – Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. These are schools that had been operating for up to 20 years without running water affecting 6,241 students and their teachers – schools where students walked up to 2km carrying their own water daily. Where even female students and teachers, would have to go into the fields to do their business. How rewarding it is to hear the faculty and students thank us for these little miracles when we turn over these projects. It is gratifying to know that none of these students will have to miss school because of their periods and that they can continue their education with a little more comfort and dignity.

Our members have consistently demonstrated an unwavering spirit of service and a willingness to go above and beyond. I am truly humbled by the incredible projects we have undertaken and the lives we have touched. Rotary has been a transformative experience for me, and I hope that it has been the same for each and every one of you. To our new President, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and extend my fullest support. I know that you will lead with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to Rotary’s core values. Your passion for service is contagious, and I am confident that you will inspire our members to reach new heights of excellence.

In closing, let us remember that Rotary is not just an organization—it is a powerful force for change. It is a global network of individuals driven by a shared purpose: to make the world a better place. As we embark on this new chapter, let us continue to embrace Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” and work tirelessly to create lasting change. We are not closing out on an era or ending one term. I’d like to look at it as having built a bridge to our future. Thank you once again for the privilege of serving as your president. Together, let us embrace the future with hope, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service.

May our Rotary club thrive under the leadership of our new president, and may our collective efforts continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Jacob Ong during the handover of responsibilities in June 2022. RCC had played a major role in responding to the remnants of COVID 19 and the devastating impact of Typhoon Odette that brought the central Cebu province and neighboring islands to its knees – Editor

What an honor it has been to serve as President of this amazing Rotary Club.

A year ago during my induction, I spoke of our plans for this Rotary year and I am happy and proud to report that we have achieved most, if not all, of those plans. We closed one Global Grant which was the WASH Global Grant that provided water for a total of 10 schools. Then we applied for 3 new ones, first is the WASH 2.0 which will provide water for 6 schools, the new Gift of Life Global Grant that will help close to 50 children with CHD, and the Sisters of Mary Boystown Tech Voc where we will provide equipment and training needed for 3 tech voc courses – carpentry, plumbing, and welding. We have a total of 77 documented service project activities with a little over 2,700 volunteer hours, and that does not include the hundreds of coordination meetings, 42 general membership meetings, 12 board meetings, and lots and lots of fellowships. It was quite a busy year.

Our contributions to the Rotary Foundation has exceeded $330,000. We now have four Arch Klumph Society members with PP Joe Soberano, Bobong Castillo, PDG Edgar and Lady Cely Chiongbian and this year, Rtn Terry Kim. We have two New Endowment Funds this year established by PAG Stephen Chian and PP Jonie Gesalem who are also our two New Major Donors Level 3, we have one New Major Donor Level 2 – Rtn Pet Dakay and one New Major Donor – Edward Garcia, so we now have 18 Major Donors. Then we have twenty-five next level Paul Harris Fellows, and a record 10 New Paul Harris Society Members for a total to 31 PHS. All these guarantee that we will be able to continue our service as Rotarians for years and years to come.

During the DISCON held in Ormoc last May 27-28, our club was awarded the $1,500 End Polio Giving Club, 100% Foundation Giving, # 1 Club in the District for TRF contributions, the ONLY Million Dollar Total Giving Club.

So, during the early part of the rotary year, we dealt with the pandemic and continued the programs started during the past couple of years led by Past Presidents Mike Torres and Edward Gaisano. Our stockpile of PPEs, facemasks, and Alcohol were crucial during the Delta and Omicron wave that hit our community. Our own Moderna Vaccination Drive helped more than 12,000 people get the vaccine during the time when vaccines were not readily available. We also raised 1.3 Million Pesos from our own members so that we will have the available funds to extend help to the frontliners and the people in case a new variant comes in. Thankfully, that did not happen. The pandemic has continued to be one of our biggest challenges as Rotarians serving the community.

Work on our Global Grants was also consistent throughout the year, the Daanbantayan National High School Tech Voc, The Paypay National High School where we built the fence and basketball court in addition to the 2 new Tech Voc courses, the Juan Pamplona National High School Tech Voc, and of course our previous Gift of Life Global Grant where we were able to send more than 40 children to manila for heart surgery.

We completed two District Grants which were the fence expansion at Community Scouts Youth and Guidance Center and the Oprra National High School Library which was turned over just last week and it was attended by none other than District Governor Anna herself with District Governor Elect Lilu Aliño.

We also have 2 units of 40 foot containers of books from the Second Wind Foundation stored and sorted at PP Ricky Dakay’s warehouse ready for distribution. That will keep us, and President Hector, busy for a while.

Other service projects include the Road Safety Awareness Campaign, rehabilitation of the stage at Balungag Elementary School, relief operations for the fire victims of Barangay Sta Cruz and the flood victims of Sogod, two tree planting activities, and of course our 89th Anniversary where we had that small window of zero Covid cases which allowed us to celebrate in person and that was certainly a night to remember.

Almost halfway thru the year, we then had our biggest campaign for End Polio Now which was the Ride to End Polio 2021. A 3 day District Wide initiative of District Governor Anna and chaired by our own member, PP Bernard Sia. We were able to raise more than 500,000 pesos coming from our members and friends outside of Rotary for the Polio Plus Fund from this event alone. And more importantly, the event raised awareness that we are this close to Ending Polio.

Then on December, Typhoon Odette hit us.

Everyone was affected by the super typhoon and our members were not exempted. Its devastating effect left all of us scrambling to provide for our families the basics like food and water. Our work and businesses were all at a standstill. And this is where Rotary Club of Cebu really shines, Service Above Self. Within a week of the typhoon, we were already in Argao and Dalaguete bringing relief goods. We had operations once or twice a week, every week, for 3 months straight, worked thru Christmas and New Year, to bring food, water, and shelter kits to the most difficult areas not easily reached by other responders. Our posts on social media were so frequent that Rotary International and ShelterboxUK reached out to us for materials to use in a feature. We received a total of 8.3 Million pesos in cash and goods from so many organizations and individuals even outside of Rotary. The care and support coming from all over the world was just overwhelming.

In our greatest time of need when everything was uncertain, reviving our businesses was uncertain, where to buy water was a challenge, buying necessities needed detailed planning because of the difficulty in getting fuel, despite so many of these challenges, our members still went out week after week after week to extend help to those who need it the most. It was a turning point in my life as I witness the passion of our members as they step up and think of others first before themselves. There is no better embodiment of this year’s theme, Serve To Change Lives, than the amount of heart and soul put into helping people in desperate need of aid. It was a very challenging period for me, but it was also the most fulfilling as well.

The last quarter when all the crises died down, our work as Rotarians continued with our service projects even up to the very last month. Just yesterday, Dir Joey was still delivering 642 boxes of relief items for the fire victims of Punta Princesa. There is no rest for the very dedicated members of this club and goes to show the harmony in which the transition from year to year ensures the continuity of our Service to humanity.

This Rotary Year though is just a prelude for the wonderful years ahead of us. Today is the day, or starting tomorrow, we really shift into high gear as we all support and follow the leadership of President Hector and the new set of Officers and Directors during this very significant year for our club, our 90th year. President Hector and his team have already been preparing months in advance and this is a clear indicator of a year brimming with excitement and something that all of us can look forward to.

Before I end, please allow me to thank this year’s Officers and Board of Directors for working with me throughout the whole year. The accomplishments for this year are the results of all your hard work and dedication. Thank you so much.

Thank you to my advisers to whom I have a direct line to call anytime I have any questions. To District Governor Anna for the amazing support and guidance you have given to our club. For not taking the mother club for granted and helping us from start to finish. Thank you so much.

To all our project chairmen who made things happen for our service projects, to our fellowship organizers, and to all our members who have worked so hard and participated in our projects and activities. Thank you.

To our International Global Grant Partners, Rotary Club of Daegu Dongho, Daegu Taebaek, Pohang, Sydney Cove, Kasugai, and Gift of Life International and clubs in the US. Thank you for making our Global Grants happen.

To all our project partners, District 3860 Disaster Management Inc, Shelterbox, Let it Echo, Dakay Construction, Virginia Food, CCA, Yap Fraternity, Dunkin Donuts, Big Blue Logistics, Hyundai Cars, Cebu Road Heroes, Department of Education, Cebu City Local School Board, and so many other organizations and individuals. Thank you all so much.

To my wife Arlene and my children, Matthew and Kai, Thank you for your patience guys. I’ll be less busy now.

In closing, I would like to repeat what I said during my inaugural speech last year. And that is our club is what it is today because of all the club’s Past Presidents and members for the last 90 years. They have set up the club for the future leaders like me, they have laid the foundation of generosity, and they instilled the culture of integrity that best represents our club. And we are all following the footsteps of these great men. With this rich history and tradition, leading the club in this present time carries with it a lot of responsibility and pressure. And for those who know me well, you know I am very much out of my comfort zone here, but with the full support and trust from all the members, we were able to serve as Rotarians successfully.

Serving as club president has completely changed my life. It has been my privilege and honor to serve, and I am humbled by this experience.

I again want to thank ALL the members of the Rotary Club of Cebu, truly the BEST ROTARY CLUB IN THE WORLD.

This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Edward Gaisano during the handover of responsibilities in June 2021 as RCC continued to thrive as it emerged from the shadow of COVID 19 under his term – Editor

Some years back, I jokingly reflected that the club’s 88th Anniversary is a good number to become more involved. Soon enough, a groundswell of fellow members opined that I need to serve as your President since if it is such a nice milestone. So, instead of choosing the Centennial year to serve which Shige and I planned, I now find myself about to end my term for 2020-2021. Truly, words should never be spoken in jest in our club.

This era now is what we call the Covid-19 pandemic. The year 2020, which by the way also sounds as a very nice number, is definitely a year we want to forget, and yet will not forget.

To recap, it is a year of lost touch, lost happiness, lost opportunities, lost economies and jobs, even lost friends, and a lot more. Although there is no physical destructions, almost everything else is a little broken or destroyed. I need not summarize the sad feelings most of us have.

As a member of the club in a leadership role, it has allowed me to witness, the humanity in us all, in the midst of this most disastrous of events in our lifetime.

The humanity of our many members has manifested in many, many forms. Our care for the society and fellow citizens has brilliantly shine brightly through.

We have shown our humanity in generosity. In the countless passing of hats, we were able to fund the manufacturing of PPEs, masks and other much-needed defense against the virus. We were able to start food kitchens, together with other like-minded NGOs in delivering hot food to the needy. We donated and delivered rice, water, medicines, various foodstuff, coffee and even doughnuts to area where it mattered most.

We have shown our humanity in courage. Our members were in the forefront in perilous areas on many occasion when the unknown fears of the virus was at its peak. We met and strategized physically. We personally packed and distributed relief goods and foodstuff. Oftentimes, we were exposed to immediate danger while delivering goods to destinations. Luckily, and by the grace of God, all of our exposed members remained free of the virus.

Our members have shown Humanity in Civic Service. The pandemic has not deterred our sense of civic duties. We continued to address ongoing commitments. We delivered on our water and sanitation projects of far-flung areas, which we had committed. We continued to help children with congenital heart diseases, in the most difficult situation. We continued and finished the educational facilities that we were involved with. And the Community Scouts Youth and Guidance Center has receive a new lease of life and mission, largely due to the diligent and unwavering support of our very committed members.

Of course, not all of these can happen without the support of others. As they say, along the way to success, there are many who aided us in our paths and journeys. The generosity of our many members are well known. The sharing of time, resources and treasures of our partner clubs, domestic and international NGOs cannot be over emphasized. And most importantly, the patience and support of our spouses, life partners and children, give us the stamina and energy to carry our cause and goals.

The glue that binds our club and members has always been fellowship. It build our trusts and dependability on each other in all the things that we do. It is this bond, which we have built through the years that bound and anchored our vocations. Our time, thoughts and actions, are united because of this fellowship. In this era of the Covid, the occasion for physical contacts has been sparse and fraught with fear. And yet, we persisted. And we have come to realize how precious and memorable those times were. These bonding moments, have indeed brought boundless deposits of goodwill. It is no wonder we have an easy time executing projects, time and time again. As the words of our charging goes, no one has brought into rotary more than what can he get out of it.

At this point, I can safely say. The club remains strong and able to serve the community. Our service above self moments are numerous and extraordinary, considering the circumstances. All our club members I am sure have some excess time, excess treasures and excess resources at their call. But to volunteer when needed, to serve when called, and to donate in big numbers when big numbers are needed, is what makes this club awesome.

As president of this club, indeed I stand on the shoulders of the giant past, who have nurtured the culture of common purpose and camaraderie. I thank each and every past leader, for the ingredients of success that this club achieved.

This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Michael Torres during the handover of responsibilities in June 2020 as he reflected upon the successful RCC year despite the challenges of COVID 19 under his term – Editor

Any president would be proud to lead this club.

Why?

We are the 2nd oldest club in the Philippines since 1932 – tuning 88 years.

Rotary Club of Cebu is a giving Club:

Total TRF (The Rotary Foundation) contribution year 2019-2020 – US $408,000.00

Aside from the three AKS (Arch Klumph Society) members that the club has produced

• 100 percent EREY (Every Rotarian Every Year)
• 100 percent Paul Harris sustaining Club
• Highest Polio contribution in the District.

One very important thing. This is not about money, this is about attitude, this is about culture of the Club and its members who care about the community, the needy and cares about the rest of the world…and why do I say this…

The Club has not only contributed to TRF but worked on …

• Multiple Global Grant Projects amounting to US $600k plus that covers Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus.
• Gift of life – about 600 children diagnostics and surgical operations were accorded a second lease in life
• Multiple Technical-Vocational Projects for Public Schools in the Provinces of Cebu

And many more.

The members of the Rotary Club of Cebu are no strangers to fast and decisive crisis response. When the Covid-19 pandemic caused the Cebu City Mayor to issue the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) on March 2020, the club rallied its members and cajoled friends into donating time, treasure and talent to the Covid-19 alleviation effort. Two enemies were declared: hunger and the virus. Like many urban cities, slum areas housed the poorest of our fellowmen and are hot zones for infection, so these slum areas, most hit by the twin enemies, became major beneficiaries.

The club’s efforts against the virus are equally, if not more intense. The club ordered 5,000 locally fabricated PPE gowns, of which 3,000 have been distributed all over RD3860 as well as to Manila. The other materials donated by the club and its friends included some dozens of gallons of alcohol, countless surgical masks, hundreds of face shields, ten sanitation tents for patient intake areas of hospitals, ten decontamination shower tents for LGU hotspot entrances/exits, scaffolding for designated quarantine centers, ventilation fans and evaporative coolers. In addition to these donated materials, our members have been in the forefront of personally assembling and delivering most of the donated items.

So, with deep concern for our fellowmen, club leaders organized the Cebu Food Bank (CFB) and started its first community soup kitchen partnership on April 4 serving 600 meals. Within 4 weeks of operation, the CFB has partnered with 9 more community soup kitchen operators, from private member clubs to concerned restaurateurs, to subdivision housewives. Since May 1, these 10 community soup kitchens have been preparing more than 11,000 meals per day, all given to hard hit slum communities. All told, over 380,000 meals have been served by June 7.

The Covid response initiatives together with Foodbank continues to be supported by RC Cebu members and friends, and as of June 2020 it has received more than Php7m in cash and in-kind donations.

The pandemic cannot lockdown our hearts…

As we show concerns for own family, our neighbors, the frontlines.

These Rotarians from the Rotary club of Cebu have the empathy…

Your heroism must be an example for all, and a source of inspiration,

who, by your courage save lives. You showed by example, what is impossible to do in these types of dramatic situations. In a moment of crisis, I would like people to understand that you have to do something…. Yes, WE have to do something.

Being united can best overcome challenges.

Let us keep in mind our motto, so that it can be said of each one of us that we believe in “Service Above Self”. Even though it may also be true that “One Profits Most Who Serves Best”, particularly where profit has a broader meaning than merely short-term financial profit or gain.

Being the President of this club is quite a fulfilling experience. The time and effort spent in service to others, one thought has crossed my mind. The Officers and the members of the Rotary Club of Cebu rose to the occasion because they have the WILL, the MIND and the HEART for our suffering fellowmen.

AND I am proud of you!

It’s a real honor to be a Rotarian and a member of the Rotary Club of Cebu.

To God be the Glory!

Let’s all give our full support to our incoming 88th President Edward Gaisano and help him achieve this year’s audacious goals!

This Valedictory address was delivered by RCC President Stephen Chian during the handover of responsibilities in June 2019. It clearly encapsulates the successful RCC year under his term – Editor

It seems like yesterday when I was standing in front of everyone while I gave my acceptance speech. During that speech, I asked for everyone’s help for this one year of service to Rotary because I cannot do it on my own and really felt the heavy weight and challenge at hand.

Now one year later, I would like to give thanks to everyone from the sister clubs, brother clubs, District 3860 officers, partner organizations and most specially to my Board of Directors, Officers and the members of the Rotary Club of Cebu.

It truly is an honor to have served as president in this very prestigious club. It is an honor to have the support of all of the members. Our members had really stepped up this year and gave their all to Humanity. With over 100 children with congenital heart defect operated on, close to 30 School in a Bag kits turned over all throughout the islands of Cebu, 42 Eye operations, school chairs donated, a WASH project for a school in Daan Bantayan, Foreign trips to Korea, Japan and Germany and the highest contributor to the Rotary Foundation in District 3860. Awarded with 22 Certificates of Recognition, Awards and Certificates of Accomplishment, being the Most Outstanding Global Grant awardee, Most Outstanding President and Most Outstanding Club of District 3860. Oh and most importantly AWESOME Fellowship activities with more than a hundred bottles of wine consumed!

Our members really did fulfill the Theme for Rotary Year 2018-2019. Be the Inspiration. Everyone was very inspirational in their own way and I am forever grateful to everyone for giving me this very wonderful, inspiring, fulfilling and life-changing Rotary year. Once again to the MOST OUTSTANDING ROTARY CLUB OF DISTRICT 3860, I would like to Congratulate you for a very successful year and THANK YOU.

To district 3860 officers, Sister clubs, Global Grant Partner clubs, Brother clubs and Partner organizations, my heartfelt gratitude to all of you.

We look forward to helping Incoming President Michael Torres to make his year an even more successful one!

This Valedictory address was delivered by then RCC President Bing Martinez during the turnover of responsibilities in July 2018. It clearly encapsulates the successful RCC year under his term – Editor

Incoming President Stephen Chian, the new District officers, Club presidents, and club officers, visiting Rotarians from Pohang, South Korea, from Tawau, Malaysia, visiting rotarians from our brother clubs in Makati and Rizal West, fellow members and spouses, fellow Rotarians, our Cebu Rotaractors, and guests.

Good evening to one and all,

I am glad to report another successful year. Our club met and exceeded the three RI Presidential citation goals: a larger and stronger club with engaged many members, an active if intimidating fund-raising effort matched by meaningful humanitarian projects, and increased the public awareness of things Rotary.

During the last year, we grew the club from 58 to 65 members. We booked the highest TRF contribution in the District and matched it with an even larger grants program. Last year, we added three global grants and one district grant. All told, we had slightly over $700,000 of grants under active management last year, a number that will only grow to over $1.0MM this new Rotary Year. And, we increased the local population’s awareness of Rotary through our Run for GOL, our many humanitarian projects, and our active social media accounts.

Someone once said that success is not measured by the amount of money one makes. Rather, it is measured by the difference one makes in the lives of other people. I only need to think about the 34 kids whose little hearts were repaired last June to know how much of a real and lasting difference we have collectively made in their lives. Or the improved educational facilities in 20 public schools around Cebu that benefit almost 6,000 students. Or the fellowships we shared with each other and with the 12 brother and sister Rotary clubs locally and around the world.

The credit for the club’s success this past year is due to the club’s team effort. We have a list of dedicated club members too long to enumerate plus the Board’s active governance to thank and recognize. And I salute you all for your individual and collective efforts.

Thank you for all your tremendous service and leadership. You have made a difference in the lives of literally thousands of Cebuanos!

In closing, I can report that the state of the club is very strong, its leadership bench is deep and very committed, and the club’s future is in very good hands indeed.

Thank you and good evening.

This Valedictory address was delivered by then RCC President Willian “Billy” Chavez at the end of his term in in June 2017. – Editor

As we remember the fundamental tenet of service that sets apart our club above the rest, we stood our ground against every roadblock that seemed to prevent us from realizing various challenges into concrete and tangible activities and programs.

We stayed on track with the goals we set out to accomplish at the beginning of my term and made sure that the objectives were aligned with Rotary’s six areas of focus. We are happy to note that we have been successful in implementing the projects and activities that we identified for each area of focus. Adding value to our efforts in serving humanity are the various awards we received like the Presidential Citation award, the Outstanding Club of the District award, District Service award, the Star Leader award and the Most Outstanding Club
Bulletin award, among others.

All of these are more than what one man, acting alone, could ever accomplish. Nonetheless, | am convinced that we, working collectively and synergistically, with passion for selfless service and a determination to succeed, shall surpass even our lottiest aspirations and grandest dreams.

This Valedictory address was delivered by then RCC President Bernard Vonn Sia when he exited in July 2016. It most beautifully describes the RCC year under his term – Editor

Rotary Club of Cebu

Valedictory Address 2016

What a year right fellow rotarians?!

One year to be a gift to the world, to be a gift to humanity. It was a tall order indeed, we helped where we could and up to the last day of this Rotary year. The first few weeks were really difficult as I started to build momentum. The weekly meetings, president’s message, sending message to the mobile phones of members and reaching out to those who don’t. These are a few of the weekly tasks. Not to mention organizing our activities when we needed to ensure attendance, prepare the venue and arrange for logistics. It was a monumental task. I even remember PP Robin telling me, “daghana pud nimog activities karong tuiga” – John, would you mind translating please?

How did I do it? Let me tell you a little secret: I didn’t! The whole club did! And from the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every club member and support group for making my job as your president a lot easier. I am nothing without you. Each call received, each reply, each attendance, each volunteer work to do service to humanity – that is how it has lightened my load. The pro-activeness of this group is infectious. How the members reach out and ask “What can I do to help?” or “I have a project proposal,” just moved the club to do more.

And the look of hope and gratitude you see when we are out there sending our books, giving out chairs, assessing children for possible heart operation is priceless. I can narrate to you all night how I get very affected seeing the plight especially of children on the streets and I will still not be able to paint the picture I have on my mind. But, though we cannot do everything for everyone, at one point we have done something for some one.

But, to all possible presidents out there, let me encourage you to try it out, give at least a year to lead the Rotary Club of Cebu or your respective clubs, I guarantee you it will be a personal and professional life changing experience. I did the math, do not be afraid of the time commitment, it calls for a little bit more time but very doable if you just know how to space it out.

Service to rotary though does not end when you have 2 P’s preceding your name for after the presidency your real involvement in the club takes form. I can name at least 5 past presidents of our club who have ‘settled in’ to a specific area of service, continued to support that service without need for publicity or fanfare. Up until our last breath, Rotary and our ideals of service should be there. After all, Charity should be part and parcel of our day to day lives apart family, work and spirituality.

Personally, my rotary experience started 30 years earlier than when PP Ricky Dakay invited me to join this club 15 years ago. He was my first rotary role model, business model, family man model, by circumstance, not by choice… He was the first rotarian I saw in my life with so much dedication and zeal to help humanity. He was the key to opening my eyes to service above self, timely that when he was president, the Rotary Theme was “You Are The Key.” Fellow rotarians, please allow me to present this recognition to PP Bonnie Sia, my dad and my boss – thank you for being patient this year especially during board meetings where I would arrive an hour late 🙂

BONIFACIO SIA

Being the first Rotarian role model and my first experience of a rotarian president

This year we went international by the way. The Philippines and Rotary Club of Cebu was represented at the biggest End Polio fund raiser in Tucson, Arizona. 100 miles of exploring Tucson on a bike, and a new friendship across the seas was formed. Ride to End Polio received from the Philippines in direct pledges worth 1 Million Pesos, about half coming from the district, the other half from our members here in Rotary and some non-rotarian friends as well. This was matched 2:1 by the Bill Gates foundation thus increasing our contribution to 3 Million Pesos. Polio took a big blow that time, and it was all because of the efforts of the contributors. I’ve thanked our members, but would also like to thank and recognize Governor Buddy Estudillo for supporting this cause under his leadership of the district. Salamat for believing in the cause. What a perfect way to give back to the world since Rotary and UNICEF’s first efforts at eradicating polio in 1979 was here in the Philippines.

SALVADOR ESTUDILLO

Invaluable Support to the Rotary Club of Cebu during the Ride to End Polio last November 2015

We continue to fight this deadly but very treatable disease this year as we formed Tri To End Polio this August 7, 2016 at the Ironman Asia Pacific Championship held in Shangri-la Mactan.

This year, membership attained a net 15% increase and not only did our numbers on paper increase, our numbers in attendance in activities and fellowship also increased. The new members we admitted further diversified our membership base. We even have this Viber chatroom that we recently opened which further united this already strong club into what it is now. Very timely that our membership and fellowship was chaired by one person, with this I would like to Recognize:

EDWARD GRIFFIN GARCIA

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Membership Chair RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Fellowship Chair RY15-16
Everyone helped, and gave over and above what is expected, but please allow me to recognize these 3 Baby Rotarians who have raised the bar in being a Rookie, Edward Tanting, Jacob Ong, Melchor Alejandro, Thank You! Your zeal to serve and hit the ground running made us all want to play catch up, presenting:

EDWARD TANTING

Baby Rotarian of the Year
Dedication & Service to the Club as Gift of Life Chair RY15-16
Invaluable Assistance during calamity relief efforts
He personally visited a GOLI patient to assess the viability of an operation

JACOB ONG

Baby Rotarian of the Year
Spearheaded the Tapul Elementary School Chairs & WASH Program
He traversed a mountain and climbing 4Km to inspect a possible water source for Tapul School

MELCHOR ALEJANDRO

Baby Rotarian of the Year
Invaluable Support to the Kindle eBooks Program with Lihuk Panaghiusa
Without reminder, he would occasionally review the eReaders that were given to Lihuk and update them as needed.

This year, we got creative in organizing club activities. Aside from the traditional golf and dinner fellowships, we’ve had a lot of unique fellowships. Out of town trips became an excuse for fellowship, don’t worry, we were all good boys out of town. DISCON, DISTAS, Singapore, Korea – we squeezed in as much fellowship as we could as a group, without considering our age differences or personal preferences. We even conducted a membership orientation at the premier Mercedes Benz Showroom of Global stars. I could attribute this to the innovative minds of our members, and at this stage, I would like to recognize a very good friend in and out of rotary, a very shy rotarian who prefers to shun the limelight but the limelight he could not avoid – that he opened 2 new showrooms and made 2 very eloquent speeches. A presidentiable no doubt, Thank you for being very supportive, please help me recognize the efforts of:

EDWARD VINCENT ONGLATCO

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as New Generations Chair RY15-16
Invaluable Support to the club through hosting of various fellowship events
We are not all fellowships though. This year unfortunately we’ve had two calamities in our region, and a handful of challenges. Some of us rotarians spent our Christmas packing relief goods for the Samar Typhoon victims, During the Guizo fire we were able to organize ourselves in 2 hours and conduct an emergency meeting that was so well attended, it could be mistaken as a regular luncheon meeting. Shelter Box assisted and gave out stoves but I would like to recognize these gentlemen that have made coordination of these efforts smoother:

ANTON MARI PERDICES

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
JONATHAN GESALEM

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
PEDRO DELANTAR

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Quietly and under the radar, they extend their helping hand, ensuring that his right hand did not know what his left hand was doing. If it was one person though that I would like to honor for being so discreet in his ways it was this rotarian who is an inspiration. He started his business empire at 40 years old and true to his ways of rolling up his sleeves and getting his feet dirty his business is as successful as how he had orchestrated the myriad of projects that he has himself involved in rotary. Take a bow our very humble rotarian

STEPHEN CASTILLO

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
Invaluable Assistance and Contribution to the School Chairs Program
Spearheading Various Relief Efforts for Calamities like the Samar typhoon & Guizo Fire victims
InValuable contribution to the Dengue Eradication Program, Water Filtration, Gift Of Life,
This year is a banner year for us. First Global Grant execution that was proposed last year and realized this year. The PayPay National School Rehabilitation will definitely go into the Rotary Cebu archives. For those who don’t know, this project is located in Daan Bantayan, 120 Kilometers north of Cebu. A global grant that involves building retrofitting, equipment supply and instructor’s training. This project will impact the lives of northern Cebuanos on a long term basis, giving them livelihood and not just a dole out. This project teaches them how to fish and not only to be given fish. A 3 hour drive that not everyone wants to make on a regular basis. I would like to recognize another very down to earth member who’s name is synonymous to huge and global design projects in the Philippines. Fellow Rotarians, help me thank:

MICHAEL TORRES

Commitment in the realisation of our first Global Grant – Paypay National School

PayPay’s Global grant would not have been as smooth if this were not ably compiled, communicated and filled up with such detail and enthusiasm. This rotarian also showed his ability to organize when the BATS (Books Across the Seas) Program was in place where he managed to allocate and distribute more than 10,000 books to more than 10 schools. He also managed to show his muscles when he would singlehandedly load these books. This would negate any thoughts that he is a senior citizen. Having a good grasp of everything you throw his way, I learned more from him this year. Fellow Rotarians, In my opinion, OUR MOST OUTSTANDING SECRETARY of the YEAR:

ANGEL RUBEN MARTINEZ

Dedication & Service to the Club as Secretary RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Club Administration
Commitment in the realisation of our first Global Grant – Paypay National School
Commitment in the realisation of our BATS (Books Across The Sea) Project
Assistance in the School Chairs Project
A District Grant that was proposed and approved this year stemmed from a thought of this single rotarian. He floated the idea during a board meeting of donating school chairs to a school in Liloan, schedule a delivery and turnover. Without second thoughts, PP Joe Soberano pledged for the school chairs for our PayPay project and the club approved and made this project grow so big that we were able to send more than 1,000 chairs to approximately 12 schools. As we speak, there are about 350 armchairs being made for a National High School in Naga.

To date, we have made this a sustaining program working together with Department of Education in identifying the schools that needs most these chairs. Supervising production together with Rtn. Bobong, he manages to juggle this and being a very efficient treasurer of the club, so efficient that he was able to bring down receivables by as much as 90% and would foot the bill when the club needed immediate funds to do so (I would like to assure his spouse that we’re all funds have been paid for already). I would like to recognize, none other than Mr. CHAIRman (literally & figuratively):

STEPHEN CHIAN

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Treasuer RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Fellowship Golf Chairman RY15-16
Mr. CHAIRMAN – Responsible for conceptualizing the School Chairs Program
The longest running project our club has is the Community Scouts Youth Guidance Center. It started over 30 years ago with a japanese sister club. The center was where the new robinsons galleria is now. We moved the facilities then where a 3 storey building now stands we call the Community Scouts Center. This is also where our club is holding office to ensure the smooth operations of the center.

We started the rotary year with the baptism of the unbaptized children where myself and PP Rene Kintanar stood as god parents to represent our club. It had been smooth sailing for this program until last year when we received word that some kids were physically abused. They filed a petition and to make a long story short, the club and its members rallied behind the children in their defense. Never have I seen so much care and compassion from captains of their industry for children that are not even related to them.

I want to thank PP Joe Gapas, Sec Bing Martinez and Rtn Edward Tanting for being bold enough to represent the club in a petition filed in court for a restraining order for the alleged abuser. I want to thank all the rotarians that did not wait to be told twice when they heard the kids did not have anything to consume and readily gave what they could give. There is one other rotarian that has been supporting the Community Scouts in the field of music and arts quietly, and I would like to give recognition to Past President Rene Kintanar. Do not let his height and frail looks fool you, this is one rotarian with a huge heart that roars compassion especially for the children of CSYGC. A fitting grandfather of these 40 children!

Not only that, PP Rene Kintanar has tirelessly monitored the Rotary Cebu Foundation ensuring the sustenance and survival of our foundation, making sure that our funds are well kept and wisely invested.

Tito Rene, please take a bow:

RENATO KINTANAR

Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
Dedication & Service to the Club as Classification Chair RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the the Rotary Club of Cebu Foundation
Dedication & Service to the Community Scouts Youth and Guidance Center
The construction of the said community scouts was funded through our Rotary Cebu Foundation and ably chaired by a gentleman that is a pillar in the construction industry. He has personally overseen the construction of the center and tirelessly reviewed each and every scope of work. He continues to support the club in any way he can by offering time, talent and resources. His home’s doors are always open to celebrate fellowship and his equipments at the disposal of the club should it be needed. Wonderfully Mean as what someone described him, like a strict but loving elder brother, Past President Ricky Dakay, my mentor in RC Cebu, please allow us to recognize your selfless efforts:

PERICLES DAKAY

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 2 attained RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Adviser to the Board of Directors RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Foundation Chair RY15-16
Invaluable assistance to the School Chairs Program
Dedication & Service to the Community Scouts Youth Guidance Center
This year, there was one challenge that we took to heart, the District Governor’s challenge of reaching our TRF goal. And reach it we did and further surpassed it. To date, this year’s TRF contributions are the highest in our club’s recorded history! Aside from the fact that we have PP Ricky as our TRF chair, 100% of our members gave this year in the amount they deemed they could give. We gave even if it hurt, and then gave some more.

It was also a choice the club made 5 years ago when instead of pouring our contributions within for our own projects, we would contribute it to the TRF since we know that we make will impact humanity in a much bigger scale through rotary international. We also saw the benefit of being able to use Global Grants and District Grants. So far, half of our contributions came back and benefitted the projects we undertook this year. Please allow me to honor our top contributors All Time Giving:

JOSE SOBERANO III

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
Dedication & Service to the Club as Adviser to the Board of Directors RY15-16
Invaluable Support to the PayPay National School Chairs Program
I would say being secretary during his presidency was the perfect training ground to presidency
EDWARD GAISANO

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Paul Harris Society Member Ry15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
Invaluable assistance during the relief efforts for the Guizo Fire victims
PERICLES DAKAY

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 2 attained RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Adviser to the Board of Directors RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Foundation Chair RY15-16
Invaluable assistance to the School Chairs Program
Dedication & Service to the Community Scouts Youth Guidance Center
TAE YUN KIM

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Top 10 Contributor to The Rotary Foundation RY15-16
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor level 2
Invaluable Support to the members during the Rotary International Convention 2016
This last of the Top 5 All Time Givers has a special place in all our hearts. His zeal to serve the club tirelessly for 40 years coveted him the title oldest active rotarian. I do not know if our members or even our district officers know that this rotarian personally calls, encodes and writes letters regarding The Rotary Foundation. His office is filled with rotary files. Even during the RI Convention, an injury could not keep him away from attending in kintex.

It is hard to get a smile from this rotarian, one would have second thoughts going near him yet if we don’t hear his familiar voice during our meetings right after singing of the national anthem, it would just not be the same. I dare say 40 years of perfect attendance come hell or high water, this rotarian will never miss an activity or would make up if would miss one. A hard man to please, stern with his words yet gentle with his actions. You’ll have a hard time getting him to smile, but when he does, it’s a kodak moment!

A true Rotarian that would live up to Service Above Self literally. Fellow Rotarians, please help me recognize our most outstanding Rotarian:

IBARRA PANOPIO

Top 5 All Time Giving to The Rotary Foundation
Paul Harris Society Member RY15-16
TRF Major Donor Level 1
Dedication & Service to the District as District Rotary Foundation Chair RY15-16
Dedication & Service to the Club as Adviser to the Board of Directors RY15-16
Most Senior and Very Active Rotary Club of Cebu member
Most Outstanding Rotarian of the Rotary Club of Cebu
During the last DISCON & DISTAS, our district officers surprised us with a myriad of awards and recognitions and we are truly grateful for that. Our battle cry this rotary year was to be a gift to the world, not to receive gifts from the world. Save for some write ups that some editorials requested to write about us, we have always shunned the limelight. We kept our head down and kept our hands dirty. I close this rotary year knowing that the Rotary Club of Cebu is not just a club with a fat paycheck. We do NOT prefer PR or Praise Release, we are an action club, not afraid to roll up our sleeves, work up a sweat and keep our hands dirty. We face disaster with hope that in every calamity there is hope. Lip Service does not exist in this club.

One person who takes this to a whole new level though professes that he will be the most inactive member yet his actions show a different side of him. When we have guests from other countries, he manages to single handedly accommodate them at times but most of the time takes the lead. He provides a lot of the unique tokens our club has given and continues to do so. His is my robin if I were batman, actually we are more like Jekyll & Hyde! My Vice President, the guy to guy who doesnt admit he’s a go to guy. Vice President Shigejiro Onda, Thank you! You never cease to keep us on our toes!

SHIGEJIRO ONDA
Dedication & Service to the Club as Vice President RY 15-16
Invaluable Support during various sister club visitations and visits
Our respective families play a very important role in Serving Humanity. Sometimes, our members are not able to attend activities due to family commitment. Allow me to report that this year we have also been very productive in the go and multiply area. We literally bore 7 Babies from Rotarians! We would like to extend our congratulations to Grandfathers and father rotarians:

Larry Stonebraker
Joe Soberano
Pete Delantar
Edward Garcia
Patrick Lopez
Mike Torres
Cheling & Javi Sala
In closing, we would like to give honor to the women and children in our lives that have motivated us to be the true rotarians we are aiming to be. Flashed on the screen are 34 new Paul Harris Fellows composed mainly of our family members. It is our way of honoring your presence in our lives and inspiring us to continue serving humanity. Please come to the stage to receive your Paul Harris Certificate:

1. Larry Stonebraker
2. Joe Soberano
3. Pete Delantar
4. Edward Garcia
5. Patrick Lopez
6. Mike Torres
7. Cheling & Javi Sala

In closing, we would like to give honor to the women and children in our lives that have motivated us to be the true rotarians we are aiming to be. Flashed on the screen are 34 new Paul Harris Fellows composed mainly of our family members. It is our way of honoring your presence in our lives and inspiring us to continue serving humanity.

Please come to the stage to receive your Paul Harris Certificate:

1. Alejandro, Ana Paz
2. Almario, Andrea Pilar B.
3. Almario, Lorenzo Javier B.
4. Barnes, Daisy Lourdes
5. Castano, Juan Carlos V.
6. Chian, Grace R.
7. Constantino, Hendrik K.
8. Dakay, Rina
9. Dakay, Pericles Jr.
10. Delantar, Catherine
11. Gaisano, Christine V.
12. Garcia, Brianna Nicole T.
13. Garcia, Nathalie T.
14. Gesalem, Rissa G.
15. Go, Janice C.
16. Gonzalez, Therese B.
17. Kintanar, Jocelyn C.
18. Lopez, Mariestelle M.
19. Lotzof, Jacqueline D.
20. Martinez, Rowena J.
21. Onda, Kumiko
22. Ong, Annie A.
23. Ong, Rainier Siegfried S.
24. Ong, Robin Jr. S.
25. Ong, Selina Rae S.
26. Onglatco, Margarita G.
27. Onglatco, Danessa L.
28. Perdices, Maria Paz
29. Panopio, Justin Gabrielle G.
30. Panopio, Matthew B.
31. Sala, Ma. Elvira Kaye L.
32. Sia, Lydia I.
33. Sia, Cressilda Y.
34. Torres, Ana Lyn

Thank you very much and Good evening.

The District Governor, Edgar Chongbian is from our club. We participated actively in the Anti Dengue Summit well as in the Dengue Eradication program; Continued Permaculture an CSYGC; Participated Robin S. Ong together with Cebu Rotarions went to Bohol to deliver and distribute relief goods to earthquake victims. A double whammy! Typhoon Yolanda, (international code Haiyan) devastated Northern Cebu, Leyte, Bohol and Samar. “Following their motto of “Service above” Self”, Rotarians all over the globe joined forces and carried out one of the widest, quickest and most-organized relief operations, and the Rotary Club of Cebu was in the heart of it all. Immediately after the typhoon, a group from Club of Cebu was in the heart of it all. Immediately after the typhoon, a group from RCC headed to the Northern towns to distribute food packs and other form of relief goods.” In cooperation with other Rotary Clubs in Cebu, a flow of relief good continued for weeks and months. Relief goods were also delivered and distributed in Leyte and Bohol in coordination with Rotary clubs there. Through a District Grant, RCC restored the tuburan Public market which was badly damaged by the typhoon; In cooperation with local and foreign donors as well as a District Grant, we provided motorized finishing boats with nets to hundreds of fishermen from several coastal towns who lost their boats to the typhoon, proving the victims with a means to livelihood. RCC Rotarians dug deep into their pockets to make sure that relief goods flow. We hosted the TRF Gala Dinner in honor of PRIVP Monty Audenart. The Paypay National high School Bee contest in cooperation with DEPED. We forged a Friendship Club Agreement with RC Kasugai (Japan). We hosted a very successful DISCON 2014. Nine (9) Rotarians and wives attended the Rotary International convention in Lisbon, Portugal.

The club contributed US $ 39,069.76 to the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.