RYLA 2009: "Ahon Kabataan Para ang Pangarap ay Makamtan"
March 10, 2009, Muntinlupa City
By Pres. Menchie Muaña, RC Muntinlupa North
With summary by PP Vhell Arias, DCC D-3830 Youth Service

Real Good President Menchie Muaña of RC Muntinlupa North, supported by her members, made sure this year's Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) was a hit for the D3830 youth partners.  Facilitating the overnight youth camp last February 7 and 8 at Viewport Terrace View Hill, Barangay Mabuhay, Carmona Cavite, were DDCC Maning Oller and Chair Areta Justado.

About 70 youth delegates, sponsored by 22 clubs, participated to accept the challenge: to rise, accept, reflect and go forward to "make dreams real!"   The Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa Chorale, the grand champion of the recent D3830 Singing Idol and Chorale Competition, sang the Doxology and National Anthem.  A dance number by the Beat Mix Dance Troupe set the joyous mood of the occasion for the young crowd.

DGE Sid Garcia, in his address, called on the youth to strive on their studies, while PDG Sonny Coloma stressed on faith in God and the vision - the goals they want to achieve.  The ever supportive DDS for Administration, PP Marge Lamberte of RC Parañaque Metro, talked on government programs for out-of-school youth.

Ms Janet Lozano, teacher facilitator made the participants aware of their personal behavior in the "Unfolding of Human Greatness" and further stengthen self trust and confidence.  Spearheaded by the Rotaract Club of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, fun games and activities ensued, such as "getting to know" and "the amazing race."  Social Worker Nimfa Gantuangco and Counselor Dencio Pineda from Seagulls Flight Foundation of RGP Ed Castillo, RC Parañaque South, reawakened the youth's knowledge on the ill effects of illegal drugs.  Capping the first day's activities was a bonfire gathering with group presentations with DDCC for Interact,  Jojo Josol.

On the second day, a fitness trainer Rtn Ronnie David from host club taught them the importance of physical fitness and led them to an early morning group exercise.  DDCC Maning Oller tackled values formation and presented a video clip about the love of a father to a child.  Participants started to unveil and gave testimonies on their own personal experiences.  An irate son who refused to accept wrongdoings while blaming everything on his dad, promised to  make up and say "sorry," after RYLA.

DCC Vhell Arias acknowledged the participants, Rotarian and friends who supported the RYLA event.  She further announced other upcoming youth empowerment projects prepared by the youth team, programs that will nurture the talents and potentials of the youth, hone their skills to succeed as future community leaders and become better rotarians of tomorrow.

A memorable awarding ceremony followed before the participants headed back to Manila.

Gov. Ed “Boyet” Limon – for 2 lechons and cash contribution
Rtn. Ethel Aldea of RC Muntinlupa North
PP Tess Miranda of RC Muntinlupa North
PE Jovi Claveria of RC Muntinlupa North
PP Efren de Castro of RC Muntinlupa North
PP Letti Rellera of RC Muntinlupa North
PP Maning Oller of RC Muntinlupa North – for his sound system
Rtn. Mel Abanto of RC Muntinlupa North – for his LCD projector
Gardenia Bakeries c/o RC Alabang – for bread products
St. Rose Transit c/o Mr. Aladin Simundac – for the bus

One again, I would like to thank everybody who made RYLA a success.  To God be the glory!

Pres. Menchie Obmina-Muana
RC Muntinlupa North