Vol. 27 No.

03

September 2013

Future Rotarians are inspired by culminating events of 2013 Youth Service Month
Interact District Assembly
The 2013 Interact District Assembly with the theme Engage the Youth, Change Lives was held on September 7, 2013 at the Silver Hall of the Rotary Center. It brought together 130 youth leaders from seventeen (17) Interact clubs in District 3780. District Governor Francis Rivera inspired and challenged the Interactors to participate enthusiastically in the workshop. Guest speaker Mark Mitra had a lively interactive session with the Interact presidents. The facilitators were composed of esteemed Rotary leaders in District 3780, namely LG Winston Sia, PP Suzette Lee, AG Cristy Dagdag, PP Rose Imperial, AG Ernie Paranis, LG Angel Gahol and PDS Joe Baradi. The Interactors received important guidelines and valuable tips in honing their leadership skills and in running their clubs. District Interact Representative (DIR) Valerie Valenzuela of Ramon Magsaysay Cubao High School and District Interact Secretary (DIS) Johanna Gatchalian of E Rondon High School were sworn in by DG Francis Rivera. The Rotary Club of Bagong Silangan hosted the 2013 Interact DISTAS. DG Francis Rivera recognized the efforts of PP Sally Gonzales as Chair of the 2013 Interact DISTAS, FCP Andy Almendral and the officers and members of RC Bagong Silangan.

Rotaract District Assembly

hile it was raining hard outside, the Rotaract Distas at the Rotary Center was full of warmth and frenzied action as 85 Rotaractors representing 21 Rotaract Clubs gathered themselves for a day of learning and interaction last September 14, 2013. Imbibing the theme of the District Assembly - Engage Rotary. Enhance New Generation, Aspire for Genuine Excellence, the participants relished the topics presented, one of which was How to be a First Class Rotaract Club presented by IPDG Rufino Penny Policarpio. When he asked the participants what is new in Rotary, Rachel Diano of the Rotaract Club of Cubao answered that it is the Rotary website. She has been active in discussion groups in the website and invited others to join, too. Sherlee Mae Tambalque from the RaC STI-Munoz was glad to be in Distas for lessons in leadership and community service. District Governor Francis Rivera, in his inspirational message, exhorted the young participants to engage in meaningful pursuits., citing great men and women with outstanding achievements in their youth. PP Linda Elequin of the host club, the Rotary Club of Uptown Novaliches, profusely thanked the attendees for coming and actively participating. In closing, First Class President Leonardo Regencia also thanked the co-host clubs, namely, RC Timog, RC QC Central and RC Holy Spirit. The District Youth Service Committee is composed of PP Johann Montellano, Youth Service Chair; IPP Marcia Salvador, District Co-Chair; IPP/PDRR Marby Montellano, District Rotaract Committee Chair; PP Bambi Verdote, District R o t a r a c t C o m m i t t e e Member and RAC Distas Vice-Chair; Rtr Gillian Alamani, District Rotaract Representative; and PP Linda Elequin as Chair, Rotaract Distas 2013.

Photo above shows District Youth Service leaders and officers of Rotaract clubs

Governors Message
Youth Service Begins at Home
By Governor Francis A. Rivera, Rotary International District 3780

Sometimes when we think about the youth and dream of serving for and with them to build their world of the future, we come to the indecision as to where we should begin. Should we begin in the club? In the schools? In the community? Or in the home? A deep look at the stages of learning reveals the natural flow of human development. The child begins to learn things in the home, prior to his or her education in school. After school, the learning process continues as the individual begins to get involved in community life. It is therefore necessary to realize that the greatest foundations for living are built in the home. It is the home that the child's first words are spoken, the first lessons learned, and the first steps made in learning how to walk. It is in the home where discipline begins to take root through parental guidance. It is in the home where love is sown and nourished to make life worth living. It is in this early stage of life that parents must take utmost care of their children and ensure that they grow with love and the spirit of righteousness. Here is a heart rending story from The Gold Box written by James C. Dobson that I would like to share with you to demonstrate what a parent can do to instill love, humility and righteousness in the heart of a child. I shall share this with you as we celebrate September as Youth Service Month. Mr Dobson writes, We sometimes learn the most from our children. Sometime ago, a friend of mine punished his three-year-old daughter for wasting a roll of gold wrapping paper. Money was tight, and he became Infuriated when the child tried to decorate a box to put under the Christmas tree. Nevertheless, the girl brought the gift to her father the next morning and said, This is for you, Daddy. He was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, but his anger flared again when he found that the box was empty. He yelled at her, Dont you know that when you give someone a present, there's supposed to be something inside of it?" The girl looked up at him with tears in her eyes and said, Oh Daddy, it's not empty. I blew kisses in the box. I filled it with my love. All for you, Daddy. The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little girl and he begged her for forgiveness. My friend told me that he kept that gold box by his bed for years. Whenever he was discouraged, he would take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there. In a very real sense, each of us parents has been given a gold container filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children. There is no more precious possession anyone could hold. As parents, we sometimes make the same mistakes as the father in the story by jumping into conclusions about our children's be-

havior without first digging deep into a situation to find the real motive of our children's actions. Then later when we discover they're not at fault, we fail to apologize for our mistake. We leave things as they are and maintain our pride as parents. We fail to realize that in so doing, we are not giving them the example of humility to accept mistakes and of fairness in dealing with them. In the process, we inadvertently instill in them the quality of foolish pride and develop resentfulness in their nature. If a child grows in an atmosphere of resentment, he or she will find the home an unhappy place to live in and will begin to seek comfort and consolation in the company of others. And this is where trouble begins. He or she could fall prey to bad influence of his or her peers. As we celebrate Youth Service Month, let us not forget that the home is the first bastion of righteousness and of strength of character. The home is where the foundations of a child's nature are built in the spirit of love. It is where discipline becomes second nature to a child that is taught through the example of parents. A friend of mine tells this story about a bad example of getting hooked into the vice of smoking. Outside their office are two trees where resting places have been built. One late afternoon, as he glanced through the jalousies of their office window, he noticed an indigent couple seated underneath the two trees. The husband was smoking and the wife wanted to smoke, too. So not wanting to stand up to give his wife the lighted cigarette, he gave the cigarette to their three-year-old son to give to the mother. The child quickly put the cigarette into his mouth, made a puff the way his father did and gave it to the mother. Neither of the parents cared what they had just done to their son. What do you think would happen to that child? Wouldn't he become a cigarette smoker himself? What would happen if he grows older, becomes addicted to smoking, and finds himself unable to generate income for his vice? What would happen if his addiction to cigarettes becomes addiction to drugs? Sometimes people do not think about the ill effects of their actions and become the source of ruin for their own children. There are countless situations where parental guidance and example are lacking in Filipino families. It is up to us as Rotarians to give the example of wholesome living - of Rotary's beautiful way of life. It is up to us to teach others to be responsible parents. It is up to us to show that parents have that divine duty to raise their children in the fear of God and in the right path of life. No one can argue that service to the youth must begin at home. It is in building better lives in the home that we can attain our dream engaging Rotary and Changing lives.
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From the Editor

Ten pages of this Governors Monthly Letter (GML) for September - Youth Service Month in the Rotary Calendar - are articles on District training events, club service activities and Rotary information that could fall in the broad category of youth service. Through nearly four years of engagement with youth partners in service at RC Holy Spirit (the Interact Club of Holy Spirit National High School and the Rotaract Club of Holy Spirit) the editor has observed that youth service in Rotary involves two mutually reinforcing aspects: service for the youth and service by the youth. Examples of Rotarians service for the youth reported in this GML include sponsoring them in events such as Distas, in HIV/AIDS prevention forum and in international cultural exchange as in the case of RC Loyola Heights. More directly clubs have typically provided literacy upgrade, gift-giving and feeding programs to indigent youngsters. Clubs also create the opportunity and support structure to enable the youth to extend service themselves to their community and to other youths, as exemplified by the joint Rotagarden project of RCs Quirino QC and San Roque, and by RC Metro Sta Mesas engagement with their sponsored Interact club. In a number of disaster relief missions of clubs, Interactors, Rotaractors and other youths had been involved, too. Through engagement with Rotarians in Rotary projects, most of Rotarys youth partners become imbued with the precepts of service above self and fine fellowship. The Editorial Board hopes that the key features of your GML which rest on electronic digital platform would be more appreciated in this issue. Printed publications cannot match our capability to store large files in cloud storage, and enable the reader to access, read, watch and even download the file with a simple click or tap on the screen of a PC, laptop or hand-held device. Please try on the RC Greenmeadows article on Page 7. Having stated that, a pretty printed version of the 24-page GML may be readily produced from your printer if desired. We are proud to announce that another outstanding Rotarian, IPP Cris Bacho of RC Cubao East, has joined the editorial team. Among other tasks, Cris shall be helping GML obtain photographs of District events.

Calendar of Activities
October & November 2013
From District Secretary Amable Mar Cancio
October is Vocational Service Month in the ROTARY CALENDAR October 10 Pre-Advent Recollection From 9:00 AM District Membership Recognition DG Spouse Peth Rivera Rotary Center Chair LG Dwight Ramos RC Quezon City QC Sports Club

October 12

October 26 October 26

4:00 - 6:00 PM Rotary Basics Seminar From 6:00 PM Grand Fellowship Night

Governors meeting with FCPs/AGs/AGRs Golden Wheel Awards Night Chair PP Mel Velasco RC Cubao West and RC Roces Crowne Plaza Galleria November is Rotary Foundation Month & World Interact Week November 15 TRF Awareness Week/ Paul Harris Golf Cup PHF Recognition Night DRF Committee RC Metro West Triangle Veterans Gof Club

November 23

November 26

Chair LG Dwight Ramos RC Quezon City Intercon Hotel Makati Meeting with FCPs/AGs/AGRs by Regional Groups

EDITORIAL BOARD
District Governor Francis A. Rivera
Publisher

District Secretary Amable Mar Cancio District Chief of Staff Francis Paderna Ricardo Ric P. Salvador
Editor in Chief

IPP Elizaberth Beth Directo (RC Camp Aguinaldo)

Associate Editor - District

IPP Marcia Marcia C. Salvador (RC Holy Spirit)

Associate Editor - Clubs

CP Winston Winston Sia (RC VisMin)

Associate Editor-Webmaster Editorial Staff

Missed earlier issues of the Governors Monthly Letter?

Click here to open and download a copy.

IPP Rhodora Doris Sanchez (RC Diliman North) IPP Cresencio Cris Bacho Jr (RC Cubao Edsa) Bernard De San Jose (RC Timog)
The Governors Monthly Letter is published by the Governor of Rotary Internationa District 3780 with offices at the Rotary Center Building, Roces Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines. Contributions for publication may be sent to Ric Salv a d or at r p _ s a l va d o r @ ya h o o .c o m, to B e th Di r e c t o at betchie@728@gmail.com, or to Marcia Salvador at mdcsalvador@yahoo.com

July 2013 August 2013

District 3780 Rotabowl 2013 strengthens fellowship among Rotarians

By PP Marilyn Manabat, Public Image Chairman, RC Cubao Central

otary International District 3780s Rotabowl 2013 dubbed as The Ist Gov Francis Rivera Cup had its opening day last September 8, 2013 at AMF Puyat Bowling Lane at Ever Gotesco on Commonwealth Avenue. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Cubao Central led by FCP Nestor Andal and co-chaired by PP Romeo Domingo & PP Emmanuel Garcia, it was well attended with more or less 40 teams participating. The tournament was officially opened by FCP Nestor Andal while Rotabowl Chair, PP Romy Domingo welcomed the bowling enthusiasts and guests. He also thanked them for supporting the 1st leg of the districts bowling tournament this year. Gov Francis Rivera gave an inspirational message for all the participants and wished them luck, after which District Sports Committee Chairman PP Jesse Eijansantos led the

Oath of Sportsmanship. Participating Rotarians from different clubs were asked to parade in their colorful uniforms and beautiful muses as the Board of Judges headed by DG Francis Rivera and Spouse Peth, PDGs Jess Cifra and Hermie Jarin watched and took notes. Adjudged winner in Best Uniform was RC Diliman; for Best Muse, there was a tie between Ms. RC Diliman and Ms. Camp Aguinaldo. The Ceremonial Roll Off was participated in by DG Francis Rivera, PDGs Jess Cifra, Hermie Jarin, Dan Espinosa, District Sports Committee Chairman PP Jesse Philip Eijansantos and FCP Nestor Andal. The tournament will run for eight weeks.

Click or tap here to view video clip of the opening of ROTABOWL 2013 on YouTube posted by UNTV Rotary In Action 4

Bowling Scores Update

From PP Marilyn Manabat, RC Cubao Central

Qualifying Round 1September 8 ,2013

RANK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ROTARY CLUB CAMP AGUINALDO AYALA HEIGHTS A RC CUBAO EAST RC KAMUNING SILVER PRESIDENTS FIRST CLASS PRES A RC BIAK NA BATO RC QUIRINO A RC CUBAO WEST A RC NEW MANILA EAST TOTAL 2604 2548 2543 2505 2487 2478 2470 2460 2455 2445 RANK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Qualifying Round 2September 15 ,2013

ROTARY CLUB AYALA HEIGHTS A RC CUBAO EAST RC QUIRINO A RC BIAK NA BATO RC CUBAO WEST A RC COMMONWEALTH RC SFDM A RC CAMP AGUINALDO RC BATASAN HILLS FIRST CLASS PRES A CURRENT TOTAL OVERALL TOTAL 2701 2648 2703 2678 2673 2723 2638 2424 2652 2460 5249 5191 5163 5148 5128 5110 5035 5028 5022 4938

Note from the GML Editors: We have requested PP Marilyn Manabat of the host club RC Cubao Central to be special GML correspondent during the opening event of ROTABOWL 2013. Thanks, Marlyn, for the article and the great photos.

District 3780 sustains TRF momentum with annual TRF SEMINAR

by PP Daniel Boone Ongchoco of RC New Manila Heights, District Adviser for Annual Giving year in TRF contributions. Part of the strategy of drumming up support for The Rotary Foundation is to educate Rotarians on the good being done by the Foundation all over the globe. After all, The Rotary Foundation is not just about annual giving donations but also about its grants programs, peace scholarships, vocational training teams and of course, polio plus. In a holistic approach, myriad Foundation topics were covered by plenary speakers PDG Jess Nicdao (Educating Club Members About the Foundation), PP Boone Ongchoco (Club Rotary Foundation Committee Roles) and CP Winston Sia (Online Grants).

ast August 24, 2013, District 3780 Rotarians once again came in full force in their support for The Rotary Foundation as they congregated at the Rembrandt Hotel for the annual TRF Seminar. Over 200 Rotarians eagerly attended this years seminar entitled Engage The Rotary Foundation, Change Lives. Ably hosted by the Rotary Club of Kamuning Central and co-chaired by PP Aiza Remedios and FCP Milo Lucenario, the half-day seminar sought to sustain the enthusiasm and momentum built by two consecutive years of record-breaking annual giving donations to The Rotary Foundation by our district. It thus became crucial for D3780 Rotarians to keep themselves updated as Governor Francis Rivera and his team aim high for another milestone

To further reinforce the knowledge of Rotarians, breakout sessions tackling the specific topics of grants (PDG Mike Lirio, PP Mar Reyes and PP Jesse Tanchanco), polio plus, peace centers, vocational training teams (PP Dan Gonzales, PP Bobbie Laguitao and PP Efren Yambot), and foundation funding and fundraising (PDG Jess Nicdao and PP Boone Ongchoco) were similarly conducted by expert resource speakers. In a true measure of the seminars success, many D3780 Rotarians left Rembrandt Hotel with a renewed appreciation for The Rotary Foundation. More importantly, not a few have happily pledged to once again donate to the worlds greatest foundation, our Rotary Foundation.

Greenmeadows holistic approach covering livelihood, outreach programs, value formation, environment and education transforms poor community to be self-reliant
By PP Romy Sangalang, RC Greenmeadows

he Rotary Club of Greenmeadows officially chartered on June 9, 1988 celebrates its 25th year anniversary this year. The clubs proponents led by CP Rustico De Vera, PP Jose Cardinez and PP Renato Lirio jointly set their vision of a new Rotary Club. Dist. Gov. Jesus Laxamana was instrumental in pushing for the approval of the club under the then District 378. Aside from other communities nearby, RC Greenmeadows has also adopted the poor communities in Bgy. Hulo, Pililla, Rizal composed of farmers and workers from Samar and Bicol who had relocated to Metro Manila but eventually got displaced. These people were considered by the Bureau of Census and Statistics as the poorest of the poor Filipinos with annual incomes of P 12,000 or less. They did not have the resources to provide for the basic necessities of living nor the source of steady income to finance the education of their children. Thus, the areas became the breeding places not only of delinquent children but also trouble maker adults. The club launched its flagship Project LOVEE (Livelihood projects, Outreach programs, Value formation, Environment and Education) in 2004 together with formation of an RIregistered Rotary Community Corps. Project LOVEE is a total approach to transform the community from the poorest of the poor residents to selfsufficient and respectable communities. The community is located 4 kilometers from any school. There were less than twenty children going to school because of the distance and lack of funds to go to school. A school was started in a 9 x 5 meters former chicken house with 90 students. Enrolment went up to 120 in the second year . RC Greenmeadows then built a fiveroom concrete school building with toilets. The club also donated chairs,

teachers tables, platform, blackboards, books and computers for the library. Funds came from contributions of the members and friends. Encouraged by this civic action, the Department of Education constructed an 8-room concrete elementary school

Elementary students (Grades 1 to 6) and 20 high school students. There are half scholarships for poor but deserving students who could not have continued schooling without Rotary assistance for a total of 120 students in Elementary and 50 High school students. In addition to the education aspect, Project LOVEE of RC Greenmeadows with the RCC of Hulo, Pililla have been transforming lives through continuing projects for the community: Livelihood programs.
The RCCs 100 members and their wives were given seminars on cultivation of high value crops. An FDA approved processing plant was set-up to buy and process the produce. Finished products are sold under the brand name Uncle Toms. The club through its Community Service Projects Committee assists in marketing the products. A farmers cooperative was organized to better coordinate the activities.

Outreach projects.
The club conducts yearly medical/dental and optical missions to provide for free consultations, medicines, dental care and tooth extractions, eye examinations and free eyeglasses. There are also annual food, clothing and gift giving activities. Through Matching Grant 65310 participated in by the Rotary Club of Brighton North, Rotary Club of Gladstone South and Rotary Club of Adelaide (Australia), potable water and electricity are provided to Hulo Elementary and High Schools with the installation of a deep well and generator set.

building and another 8-room building for high school. Today, there are 21 modern classrooms with more than one thousand students enrolled in school year 20132014. The school was cited as number one in learning growth in 2008 out of 57 schools in the region. The club grants full scholarship for the top five (5) students of each class - 30

Value formation.
Catechists were invited to foster love of God, country, parents and the elderly. Seminars were conducted regarding Old Filipino Values such as respect and love of parents and elders, honesty, courtesy, and humility.

Environment care and protection.

The club has conducted seminars on waste segregation and conversion of biodegradable waste to fertilizer, RCC has planted hundreds of hardwood trees, residents are encouraged to build a toilet for each home, and a pathway to the communitys drinking/washing water source was constructed through bayanihan.

The Rotary Club of Greenmeadows looks to another 25 years with the resolve to achieve a lot more in the service of the communities we support.
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Click or tap here to view full report with photos of Project LOVEE of RC Greenmeadows D3780

Quezon City Central provides reliable source of clean water to less-fortunate families
By CP Andy Andy T. Que, RC Quezon City Central

ealizing that water is one of the necessities in daily life, RC Quezon City Central embarked on a Poso Mula Sa Puso project to help ensure that a community will have continuous source of clean and potable water. The end result is to enable residents to maintain cleanliness and hygiene and consequently prevent sickness from water-borne diseases. During calamity and disaster, the community can have a ready access to water, too. The recently-chartered club decided that the first deep-well pump installation under the Poso Mula Sa Puso project shall be set up in

Angeles, Pampanga. The project progressed remarkably quickly from planning through completion & turnover stages. During the clubs August 2 Regular Meeting, it was agreed that CP Andy Que and PP Jay Nucum will survey the exact location of the proposed deep-well pump in Purok 3, Barangay Sto. Domingo, Angeles, Pampanga. And on August 11, the deep-well hand pump assembly and accessories were delivered together with all the materials needed for digging/drilling, including

the laborers on the site. On August 16, 2013, CP Andy Que with 21 Rotarians of RC QC Central turned over the deep-well system to Barangay officials led by Chairman Teofilo Casupanan with a simple ribbon cutting rite. The Purok 3 community is the most depressed area of Brgy Sto. Domingo with more than 500 families in need of source of potable water. The Poso Mula sa Puso project is an answer to their thirst for clean water. The cost of the water pump installation project had been raised from sponsors.

Twenty-two Rotary clubs support the continuing awareness drive to achieve ZERO new incidence of drug abuse and HIV/AIDS among the youth in District 3780
By FCP Eui Bong Jung and editors of THE DOVE, eBulletin of RC Holy Spirit

ith the Rotaract and Interact Clubs of Holy Spirit, RC Holy Spirit D3780 successfully organized and sponsored the 3rd annual youth forum on Anti-Drug Abuse and HIV/AIDS Prevention on September 22, 2013 in cooperation with the Quezon City Red Cross. The forum was attended by 78 Rotaractors and Interactors, as well as by 24 Rotarians and guests. The very serious but relevant topics were ably presented by the young, competent Red Cross facilitators (called peer instructors) Ms Janice Adolfo, Mr Ruben Claravall Jr and Mr Reysan Plomado, all registered nurses. Ms Adolfo is the Head of the Quezon City Red Cross Community Health Services and is a member of RC New Manila Heights. The forum was spiced up with fun exercises that evoked laughter and thought not only from the young attendees, but the Rotarians present as well. The outcome desired from the forum is to help achieve ZERO new incidence of substance abuse and HIV/AIDS affliction among the youth in Quezon City, particularly among Interactors, Rotaractors and their classmates, families and friends. Given the alarming rise of HIV infections in the country, the topics on HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse are especially relevant. Per the latest data from the Department of Health, the countrys HIV and AIDS registry for 2013

reveals a 79% increase in newly reported HIV cases, compared to the same period in 2012. The Philippines now is one of only two countries in Asia, and one of seven globally, where the number of new HIV cases has increased by over 25 per cent from 2001 to 2009. In May 2013, 415 new HIV cases were recorded. RCs Ayala Heights, Broadway, Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Crame, Cubao Central, Cubao South, Cubao West, Kamuning, Kamuning Central, Loyola Heights, Metro Sta Mesa, North Edsa, Pag-asa, Quezon City, Quezon City Circle, Roxas, SFDM, Timog and West Triangle co-hosted the youth forum. Mega Edsa and New Manila East expressed their support for the forums objective, too. FCPs Neil Valenton, Robert Camba, Josie Garcia, Art Herrera, Ludy Hofer, Danny Ferrer, Pocholo Jaymalin, Cecile Rodriguez, Yony Quan and Mario Marfal were there to demonstrate support to the goal of achieving ZERO new incidence of the dreaded afflictions.

Choose your friends Community service projects Community vigilance & information

The points emphasized in the HIV-AIDS session included:

HIV is a virus that infects people by getting inside their blood cells. To avoid getting HIV, a person must prevent the blood, semen vaginal fluids, or breast milk of someone who is infected from entering the anatomical openings including mouth or breaks in ones skin. The resource persons reminded the youth and grown-ups of the timetested ABCDEFGH rule Abstain from sex Be faithful to your partner Conscience/Correct use of condoms Do not use illegal drugs Educate yourself Frequent voluntary testing Guidance and counselling Healthy lifestyle

In the discussion on dangerous drugs, Mr Claravall spoke on

Top substances being used: Shabu, Mariijuana, Corex-DM (cough/cold medicine) and Rugby Proven ways to prevent drug abuse DONT TRY, DONT TASTE, DONT START Close family ties

AIDS sickness due to HIV virus is fatal for which no cure has yet been developed.
In his closing remarks, District Chair for Youth Service Committee PP Johann Montellano thanked RC Holy Spirit for organizing the timely youth forum and urged the attendees to share what they had learned with relatives, friends and schoolmates or colleagues to help attain ZERO new incidence of drug abuse and HIV/AIDS.

Click or tap photo to view photo stream of the event on Flickr

Click or tap here to view slide presentation on Drug Abuse & HIV/AIDS Prevention by QC Red Cross Chapter

Loyola Heights hosts Singapore Interactors and builds international understanding

By PN Kon Constantino, Youth Service Chairman, RC Loyola Heights The Rotary Club of Loyola Heights (RCLH) hosted the visit of the Interact Club of ITE College East, D3310, Singapore. The visit of the Singapore Interactors is part of an annual cultural exchange program of the RCLH and its sister club, the Rotary eClub of 3310. Now on its 7th year, the 36-strong Interact Club delegation was composed of 33 Interactors and 3 teacheradvisers. They were billeted at the partnership center, Loyola Heights, Quezon City and had a full schedule during their 9-day visit. The group arrived on September 17, 2013 and were provided with the usual arrival welcome, orientation and briefing by the members of the RCLH led by FC President Raul Addatu. Their first two days were spent at the Brookside Rotary International Village, Bagong Silangan. Quezon City (a lowcost housing project of the RCLH where more than 300 families of former garbage scavengers reside). They had immersion activities with the students of the Franciscan community grade school and with the RCLHrun Rotary pre-school pupils or a total of 350 students altogether. The Interactors likewise donated school bags, supplies and chocolate bars to the students and grocery packs to their respective families. The ITE College East Interactors also maintains a livelihood program in the community for the unemployed mothers. They have donated funds as seed money for the manufacture of decorative candles and quilts for the Singapore market. That night the Interactors appeared as guests on the UNTV Rotary in Action program.

In the evening of their third day, they were hosted by the RCLH during the clubs regular meeting at the Celebrity club where the Interactors rendered a presentation of their past accomplishments and future plans. On their fourth day, the Singaporeans joined the 3 PSBA-Loyola Rotaract clubs in the launching of the Environment Week at the QC campus of Philippine School of Business Administration. Among the activities were on-the-spot poster making contest, essay writing contest and turnover of garbage recycling bins purchased by the Rotaractors from the proceeds of an earlier fundraising activity. In the afternoon, the group visited the Ephpheta Foundation for the Blind were they engaged the visually impaired with various activities. At the end of the visit, the Interactors donated health and wellness items to the trainees. Saturday was spent planting dragon fruit trees and helping build the community learning center at the Our Lady of Banneaux San Mateo low-cost housing site. They are one of the donors in the building of the center. The following day (Sunday), they were brought on a cultural trip to the famous Villa Escudero where they

enjoyed the various sights, activities and delicacies at the resort.

The last day was spent at the the Batino SPED School where they interacted with the physically impaired children (Hearing, Visual, Autistic and those with Downs syndrome). Various games and entertainment numbers were held. The activity ended with the donation of a pair of footwear each for all the 216 students. In the afternoon, the Singaporeans met with the RCLH supported Interact Club of JP Laurel High School. They were provided with a cultural presentation by the Laurelian Interactors. Other fellowship activities were conducted the rest of the afternoon. In the evening, a farewell party was hosted by the RCLH. They were brought to the airport early morning of September 25th for the trip back to Singapore. They will then start their year-long preparations for the next trip in September, 2014. Coincidentally, the month of September is also known in Rotary as the New Generations Month. Mission accomplished.
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Metro Sta Mesa sponsors Interact Club of Ramon Magsaysay High, best in 2012-13
By FCP Ludivina Ludy S. Hofer and Sec Ricardo Ric Bugayong RC Metro Sta Mesa

he Interact Club (IaC) of Ramon Magsaysay Cubao High School was organized on September 6, 2012 through the initiative and guidance of the Rotary Club of Metro Sta Mesa (RCMSM). As new as it was, it shone as a group of young men and women imbibed with the spirit of Rotary service. It was adjudged as the Best Interact Club of RI District 3780 for Rotary Year 2012-2013. Its first President, Valerie Valenzuela, was elected and now serves as District Interact Representative for RY 2013-2014. Valerie was also recognized as the Most Participative Female during the RYLA 2013 held in Corregidor Island. For its initial outreach program, and with support from RCMSM, the IaC of RMCHS launched Bulilit Akoy Ganado (BULAGA) last December 2012 benefitting around 30 indigent children of Barangay Pinagkaisahan, a community near the schools vicinity. The event had the Interactors conducting story-telling & book-reading sessions, leading lively parlor games, entertaining the kids with song & dance numbers, distributing food and prizes provided by RCMSM, and simply interacting with the children. In May 2013, they were actively involved in the Brigada Eskwela in their school, cleaning and repainting one whole floor of the Mathay Building of RMCHS, with materials provided by RCMSM. They again held BULAGA Part II on July 26, 2013 for twenty-five (25) indigent Grade I & II pupils of the MH del Pilar Elementary School. Again, the Interactors took charge of feeding and entertaining the young ones. They also helped distribute school supplies and used clothes provided by RCMSM. When organized last September 2012, the IaC of RMCHS had twenty (20) members. Membership has since increased to more than a hundred but this had to be reduced to sixty (60) for better club management purposes.
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Quirino QC and San Roque launch Rotagarden to instill awareness of food gardening and environment care among elementary school pupils
By FCP Ferdie Gueco, RC Quirino QC

s the proverbial saying goes, Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; show him how to catch fish and you feed him for a lifetime. With this in mind, RC Quirino introduced the Rotagarden project to its adopted school, Batino Elementary School in Barangay Amihan, Project 3, QC. The school has 860 pupils enrolled this school year and caters to both regular and SPED students. On August 16,

2013, Rotarians from RCQQC together with RC San Roque, and with the enthusiastic assistance of the schools Early Act students from Grades IV, V and VI, prepared the grounds and planted seedlings of high-breed papaya, coconut, tomato and various vegetables in a vacant area at the back of the school. Rotarians from RC San Roque were a great help in the initial soil preparation and cultivation.

The Rotagarden will be a continuing project of RCQQC and aims to provide the school an accessible source of fruits and vegetables, particularly for the current BLT Feeding Program. It also promotes in the Early Act students a sense of responsibility and awareness of backyard gardening and greening. The Early Act students who will be tending the Rotagarden will be the main beneficiaries of this project.

Camp Aguinaldo works to upgrade literacy of children residing in La Loma Cemetery

By FCP Robert Camba, RC Camp Aguinaldo

he life of underprivileged kids can be burdensome. With all the issues of survival their families have to contend with, learning can be a problem . With this in mind, ATD Fourth World Philippines organized a weekly tutoring program in two marginalized communities in Manila, at Ilalim ng Tulay in Paco, and North Cemetery in La Loma QC, which they aptly call Ang Galing! in which RC Camp Aguinaldo participates. We focus on children 6 years and above who have serious problems in basic reading. Ang Galing! wants to build up these childrens selfconfidence, which helps with learning. Through one on one sessions our volunteers encourage every improvement in the kids no matter how small. Since August 24th Ang Kampo has been teaching children who reside

inside the North Cemetery in La Loma, Quezon City how to read, write and color, in a one on one session. More volunteers are needed, though.

Volunteers dont have to be teachers, but simply to truly want to teach children to learn to love learning. Ang Galing! volunteers must be patient, encouraging, positive and creative. 12

Cubao Central acts swiftly to relieve hunger in flood-affected Bgy San Antonio, QC
By PP Marlyn Manabat - Chairman of Public Image, RC Cubao Central

he Rotary Club of Cubao Central through the leadership of FCP Nestor "Boy" Andal had its share of reaching out to our brothers and sisters who had been adversely affected by Typhoon Maring on August 22,2013 at Barangay San Antonio in Quezon City. One hundred fifty (150) people both children and adults were given free lunch meals and a bag of grocery items

with rice, noodles, water, and canned

goods. FCP Boy was supported also by his family by helping in packing the relief items for our poor affected brothers and sisters. CUCENIANS felt a sense of fulfillment in the service we extended and likewise happy as the people kept on thanking us profusely.

Camp Crame and PNP respond to disaster in various places in various ways
By FCP Vic Turdanes and Sec Sheena Montiero, RC Camp Crame

he rains had been over but people who were still suffering pushed the club to help them. Being of service to others, the exact credo of Rotary, is exemplified in these troubled times. Spearheaded by First Class President Vic Turdanes with the support of IPP Bernie Florece and AGR Nick Bartolome, the club participated in

various relief operations, medical missions to include the repacking and donation of relief goods. The first leg of the operation was conducted in Brgy San Juan Cainta on August 21, 2013 wherein 2,000 families benefited in the joint relief efforts and medical mission of the club in cooperation with the Philippine National Police through the

Police Community Relations Group. On August 28, 2013, Assistant Secretary Sheena Montiero and new generations members assisted the relief mission for families in Brgy Canlalay, Binan, Laguna. 1000 bags of goods (rice, noodles, canned goods).

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Holy Spirit and Camp Aguinaldo pool Rotary passion to serve flood victims in Candaba
By PP Beth Sy of RC Holy Spirit and FCP Robert Camba of RC Camp Aguinaldo

ast August 29th, RC Holy Spirit and RC Camp Aguinaldo with support from their respective members and donors distributed food relief goods to 300 families in Candaba, Pampanga who were then still unable to return to their homes because of flood waters induced by Typhoon Maring and habagat monsoon rains. The request for emergency relief was conveyed to PP Beth Sy of RC Holy Spirit. Receiving and repacking of relief food items started at the DAHHA clubhouse on August 28 by the Interactors of Holy Spirit National High School and IPP Marcia Salvador, PP Beth Sy, PP Chin Chin Jurado, Rtn Jerry Sy and Myrna. Repacking continued the next day with First Class President Robert Camba and IPP Beth

Directo of RC Camp Aguinaldo who came with a Rotaractor and more sacks of rice and relief food items. FCP Robert provided the truck for transporting the goods to Pampanga. The Rotarians distributed the relief packs to flood victims under the heat of the midafternoon sun last August 29.

Lagro Ascension extends relief to flood victims through Caritas Novaliches mission
By FCP Cecil Fernandez and Sec Ma. Narea Molina, RC Lagro Ascension

ays of heavy downpour have caused serious flooding in Metro Manila. Typhoon Maring with Habagat wind damaged properties and affected thousands of lives most especially children. There were floods everywhere and it really brought disaster to the people living in low lying areas. If there is the

unlimited supply of rains, definitely there will also be limitless people who will be there to help the flood victims. The sun smiled on August 23, 2013 and gave us the go signal to accomplish our mission: Destination Caritas Novaliches. We joined our brothers and sisters in the area of Novaliches, Quezon City to help Caritas Novaliches in their noble endeavor of giving assistance to the flood victims within our diocese and nearby areas. In a very short period of time after our rainy meeting last August 20, 2013, we were able to gather our resources. Going to our destination, we brought along with us food stuffs (noodles and sacks of rice) and non-food stuffs. We also had the chance to help in the segregation of used clothing in the Caritas Office. This years theme of Rotary, Engage Rotary, Change Lives definitely dwelt among us.
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Biak na Bato and partners extend relief to flood and landslide victims in Zambales
By FCP Jolan Salino, RC Biak na Bato

he Rotary Club of Biak-Na-Bato in partnership with the Carl Balita Review Center, Boardwalk, and Gordon College distributed packs of relief goods consisting of rice, noodles, canned goods, bags, slippers, shoes, used clothes and de-worming tablets to the victims of flash floods and landslide in East Tapinac, Olongapo City, Zambales last September 26, 2013. More than 300 residents and students benefited from the operation. FCP Jolan Salino, PP Florito Fedalgo, and Rotarian Carl Balita spearheaded the mission.

Cubao South and South Triangle with RC Baguio serve Aeta community in Pampanga
By FCP Atchie Baetiong, RC Cubao South The Rotary Club of Cubao South led by FCP Atchie Baetiong and the RC South Triangle led by FCP Ronnie Collado joined forces to collect and deliver relief goods in the Aetas community at Barangay Sapang Uwak and Barangay Banaba in Porac, Pampanga last September 15, 2013. This event was supported by the Rotary Club of Baguio, sister club of RC South Triangle. Rotarians from Cubao South and South Triangle distributed packs of food, canned goods, used clothing and blankets. There were some 600 Aeta families who benefited during the event. Some 300 children were gathered for activities like feeding, reading/ storytelling and coloring books. Rotarians and their family members took turns taking care of those activities. Earlier last August 20 & 21, Cubao South had completed feeding and distribution of relief goods for Habagat victims in Metro Manila.

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Silver Presidents commemorate the birthday of Gov Jess Cifra and other Silver celebrants by extending free medical-dental relief to indigent families in San Mateo
By Silver President Marlyn Manabat, RC Cubao Central

eptember 14, 2013 was the date of Governor Jess Cifras birthday and the first quarter birthday fellowship of the Silver Presidents who celebrated their birthdays from July to September. To commemorate Gov Jess birthday in a truly meaningful way, the Silver Presidents organized a Medical and Dental Mission and Community outreach at Barangay Silangan , ANCOP-District 3780 Communities in San Mateo, Rizal in the morning. It was

up, free medicines and vitamins. It was highlighted by the childrens party where we had parlor games, story-telling by Governor Jess himself, and a volunteer dentist teaching the kids how to take care of their teeth. About a hundred children enjoyed every minute of the event and brought home a lot of prizes and goodies from the parlor games. sponsored by Silver President Aiza Remedios with the concerted effort of other Silver Presidents present. The activity started with a Holy Mass in the community. About 30 families were given free medical and dental check After the community service activities, we proceeded to SP Ayongs farm in San Mateo where we held our Hawaiian-inspired fellowship. We really had a great time of fun, singing, dancing and bonding despite the heavy rains in the late afternoon.

It was really a very long and tiring day for the Silver Family yet fulfilling because we know we had touched the hearts of the people in the community, brought smiles on the faces of children and in the process, made our beloved Governor Jess & Spouse Helen happy and proud.

Click or tap photo to view photo stream of the event on Flickr

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Messages, news and information from Rotary International

RI Presidents September Message

Dear fellow Rotarians,
aul Harris famously wrote, This is a changing world: we must be prepared to change with it. The story of Rotary will have to be written again and again. While we will never know what Rotarian Paul would have thought of the Internet Age, I think I do know what he would have said about the idea of a Rotary website: that not only should we have one, but that it should be the best possible keeping up with advances in technology, and always responding to the needs of Rotarians. Im proud to announce that after a redesign that has taken two years from concept to completion, the new Rotary.org is now live and available to Rotarians and Internet users everywhere. It contains many of the features youve asked for, most notably a much improved search function and navigation, new ways to connect with your fellow Rotarians around the world, and a more personalized experience that will connect you with the information thats interesting to you. Rotarys new website is actually two sites: one for the family of Rotary, and another for people interested in finding out more about Rotary. When you create an account and log on as a member, youll gain access to a host of new Rotary tools. One I hope youll all use is Rotary Club Central, an efficient and effective way for clubs to set goals, track their progress, and maintain continuity from one administration to the next. You can also create or join a Rotary group, an interactive discussion forum that gives you a way to find and talk to Rotarians with similar interests. You can exchange ideas and experiences, and benefit from the experiences of others from all over the world, at any time of the day or night. Its a tool with wonderful potential to improve our service by allowing us to learn directly from others already involved in projects similar to those we might be planning. For non-Rotarians, the new site will show what Rotary is and what we do, highlighting the uniqueness of Rotary and how Rotary clubs strengthen their communities. Theyll be able to see a snapshot of different Rotary projects and areas of service, find out more about how Rotary works, and explore ways to get involved. I am excited about this new window on the Rotary world and invite you all to visit, explore, and learn as we write the story of Rotary, again and again, together.

Foundation Chairmans September Message

INVEST IN THE WORLDS FUTURE

very year, 6.9 million children die before reaching their fifth birthday. Almost two-thirds of them 4.4 million die of infectious diseases, nearly all of which could have been prevented. What would happen if 1.2 million Rotarians continued their service efforts in water, sanitation, health, hunger, and literacy, but with children in mind? If Rotarians provide insecticide-treated nets, fewer children will succumb to malaria. If we dig wells and address sanitation problems, more children will have clean water to drink and a lesser risk of falling ill with waterborne diseases. And if Rotary clubs carry out effective nutrition projects, we can save some of the almost 2.6 million children who die each year from malnutrition. We can do even more by providing a community with a trained birth attendant, a visiting nurse, a simple clinic, or a school food program. These are direct ways to save childrens lives. Children are dying not because we cant help them, but because too often, nobody does. If every one of us does our part, we can challenge these high child mortality statistics and save the lives of thousands. In 2008-09, I asked Rotarians to open their eyes to the needs of children in communities near and far. This September, Rotary celebrates New Generations Month, and theres no better time than now to focus on giving all children the opportunity to have the future they deserve.

D. K. Lee
Foundation Trustee Chair

Ron D. Burton
President, Rotary International
WHATS NEW ABOUT THE ROTARY WEBSITE? EVERYTHING!
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View this page of the eGML online to appreciate the contents.

FEATURED STORIES
ENGINEERING SUSTAINABLE WATER SOLUTIONS IN LATIN AMERICA 9-SEP-2013 Providing clean water, New Generations, Humanitarian projects, Partners Perched in the rugged mountains of central Ecuador, the village of Tingo Pucar seems an unlikely place for artistic inspiration to strike. But Tony Riggio never leaves his camera behindand his photos of Tingo Pucar illustrate what can happen Read more > WITNESSES TO HISTORY 21-AUG-2013 Community service, New Generations, Rotaract The first Rotary club in Ukraine was chartered in 1992, mere months after the formal dissolution of the Soviet Union. Twenty years later, young people have embraced Rotary through 24 Rotaract clubs across the country. While many of them Read more > COUPLE VENTURE OUTSIDE COMFORT ZONE TO BRING AID 17-AUG-2013 Providing clean water, Growing local economies, International service, Grants Seated in a circle of men, women, and children at the base of a sprawling fig tree in the remote Ugandan village of Oduworo, Rotary members Steve and Vicky Wallace ask the villagers about their needs. At least a thousand people have come together Read more > ROTARIAN ACTION GROUP HELPS COUNTRIES GROW INDIGENOUS CROPS 17-AUG-2013 Fighting disease, International service, Vocational service, Rotarian Action Groups Australian Bruce French has been eating locally for 35 years long before it became a culinary trend. Now hes working with Rotary members to help countries struggling with food security do the same. French founded the not-for-profit Food Read more > EMPOWERING MOTHERS BY PREVENTING INJURIES 17-AUG-2013 Saving mothers and children, International service, Vocational service, Grants Robert Zinser understands numbers. The economist and retired president for Asia at chemical giant BASF has spent his life analyzing and predicting future trends. So when he initiated a five-year, $3 million pilot project to reduce infant and Read more >
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Messages, news and information from Rotary International

ROTARACT, INTERACT AND RYLA

Leadership is an essential aspect of Rotaryand we offer both clubs and programs to help emerging leaders develop their skills. Through these groups, participants strengthen their leadership skills, serve their communities, increase their world understanding, build friendships, and more.

ROTARACT

Rotaract brings together people ages 18-30 in universities and communities worldwide to organize service activities, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun. Rotary clubs sponsor them, but Rotaract members manage and fund their clubs independently. Rotaract members work closely with their local Rotary club, and may join after their Rotaract membership ends. Follow Rotaract on Facebook, Twitter, Slideshare, and Storify to see what Rotaract clubs are doing around the world.

INTERACT

Interact is a club for youth ages 12-18 who want to connect with others in their community or school. Interact club members have fun while carrying out service projects and learning about the world. Interact clubs organize at least two service projects a year: one that benefits their community and one that encourages international understanding. While Interact clubs receive guidance from individual Rotary clubs, they govern and support themselves. Follow Interact on Facebook and visit Interacts YouTube channel to see what Interact clubs are doing around the world.

RYLA

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership development program run by Rotary. While participants can be any age, most events focus on secondary school students, university students, or young professionals. RYLA events are typically 310 days long and include presentations, activities, and workshops that cover a variety of topics, including:

Leadership fundamentals and ethics Communication skills Problem solving and conflict management Community and global citizenship

Follow RYLA on Facebook to learn about inspirational events happening around the globe. RYLA participants are nominated by their local Rotary clubs.

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Photo Gallery

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Photo Gallery

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Recognition of Contributors
District Governor Francis Rivera and the editors thank Rotarians who have contributed to this September issue of the Governors Monthly Letter.

Front page features: Rtn Roger Espiritu of RC Bagong Silangan for the coverage of the Interact DISTAS held September 7, and PP Manny B. Balane, Public Image Director of RC Uptown Novaliches, for the coverage of the Rotaract DISTAS on Sept. 14th. FCP Nestor Andal and PP Marilyn Manabat of RC Cubao Central for the coverage of the opening events of District ROTABOWL 2013 on Pages 4 and 5. PP Daniel Boone Ongchoco of RC New Manila Heights, District Adviser for Annual Giving, for the article on the TRF Seminar on Page 6. PP Romy Sangalang of RC Greenmeadows for the write up and photos of the clubs distinctive Project LOVEE, a holistic community development program, on Page 7 with link to a more detailed report kept in GMLs file storage area in the Internet cloud. FCP Andy Que of RC QC Central for the article and photos of the clubs Poso Mula sa Puso water supply project in Pampanga, on Page 8. FCP Eui Bong Jung of RC Holy Spirit for coverage of HIV/AIDS forum, Page 9, with links to 84-page slide presentation used by QC Red Cross facilitators and photo stream. PN Kon Constantino, Youth Service Chairman of RC Loyola Heights, for the article and photos covering the visit of Singaporean Interactors, Page 10. FCP Ludy Hofer and Sec Ric Bugayong of RC Metro Sta Mesa for the report and photos of the organization and service activities of the Interact Club of Ramon Magsaysay High School, Page 11. FCP Ferdie Gueco of RC Quirino QC for the article and photos of the roll-out the Rotagarden project; and FCP Robert Camba of RC Camp Aguinaldo for the article and photo of clubs literacy program for children residing in the La Loma Cemetery, Page 12. PP Marlyn Manabat of RC Cubao West for report on the clubs flood relief response in Bgy San Antonio QC; and FCP Vic Turdanes and Sec Sheena Montiero for the report on relief missions of RC Camp Aguinaldo, on Page 13. PP Beth Sy of RC Holy Spirit and FCP Robert Camba of RC Camp Aguinaldo for the report on the joint relief response in Candaba, Pampanga; and FCP Cecil Fernandez and Sec Ma. Narea Molina of RC Lagro Ascension for the report on the clubs relief effort through Caritas Novaliches, Page 14. FCP Jolan Salino of RC Biak na Bato for the report on the September 26 response to assist victims of floods and landslides in Zambales; and FCP Atchie Baetiong of RC Cubao South and FCP Ronnie Collado of RC South Triangle for report on the Sept. 15th humanitarian relief mission for Aeta community in Pampanga, Page 15. Silver President Marlyn Manabat for the report and photos of the Silver Presidents outreach project to commemorate the birthday of Gov Jess Cifra last September 14, on Page 16. 22

Reminder from the District Membership Development Committee

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Reminder from the District Vocational Service Committee

Dear First Class Presidents, This is to remind you about our on going search for the 2013 Rotary Golden Wheel Awards open to outstanding individuals (non Rotarians) residing in Quezon City and the Paul Harris Vocational Excellence Awards for Rotarians in District 3780. Deadline for submission will be on October 5. Awards night will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on October 25. Please submit your duly accomplished nominations now. Attached herewith is the TRGWA AVP Teaser. Yours in the Rotary, PP Ed Ayento

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