May 8, 2008
PE TONY ILAGAN
Makati Buendia

On DISTAS 2008

The just concluded District Assembly (DISTAS) held  on May 3 at the SGV Hall, AIM Conference Center in Legaspi Village , Makati City , was indeed a REAL SUCCESS. It really helps our incoming club officers further understand their respective roles for Rotary Year 2008-2009.

Also, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the incoming officers and members of our club, the Rotary Club of Makati Buendia (RCMB), who despite their busy schedules attended the DISTAS. Although, we pre-registered a total of 30 participants, there were 37  RCMB’s attendees including our Charter President Bernie Atienza, SP Uly and PP Gil C. Mamaril who were present during the  DISTAS. Thanks also to the Chairman of  Membership Development, Director Nonoy Tan B.

As PDG Jimmy Cura aptly and eloquently explained when he discussed  club governance. He said --  every member of a club must have a role to play in order to have a strong club.  That is one of our club’s secrets which we have  been  adopting  starting RY-2007-2008.  Strong Fellowship, worthy community services, holding well-organized weekly meetings, inviting well-known resource speakers, and the context in which we interact are,  among others, the reasons why we have a strong club right now.  We will admit as PDG Jimmy accurately observed that before the start of the Rotary Year 2007-2008, we were surrounded by problems, among others, few number of members (with only 14 members to be exact) without an immediate past president, and with 2 past presidents who resigned from our club.  We were actually doomed to dissolution prior to the start of RY-2007-2008. However, with our concerted and determined efforts, we  were able to address the myriad problems besetting our club. Bonded with common goals and shared ideas,  we were able to blaze new trails, widen our horizons,  and above all, we have developed new and dedicated leaders within our club.  To this, we find it appropriate to quote the famous phrase ---- “there is no such thing as a weak club, but only a weak leader or a weak president”.

To date, we have numerous leaders in our club who are willing to continuously provide humanitarian service and share their vocational talents in order to address the needs of our less fortunate brothers and sisters.  Rotarians are leaders, and the world needs leaders. As Dr. John C. Maxwell, a proven expert on leadership, said in one of his inspirational books “ Developing a Leader within You” (1993 series) ----

“The world needs leaders…

…who use their influence at the right times  for  the right reasons;
…who take a little greater share of the blame and a little smaller share of the credit;
…who lead themselves successfully before  attempting to lead others;
…who continue to search for  the best answer,  not the familiar one;
…who add value to the people and organizations  they lead;
…who work for the benefit of others and not for  personal gain;
…who handle themselves with their heads and handle others with their hearts;
…who know the way, go the way, and show the way;
…who inspire and motivate rather than intimidate  and manipulate;
…who live with people to know their problems and live with God in order to solve them;
…who realize that their dispositions are more  important than their positions;
…who mold opinions instead of following opinion polls;
…who understand that an institution is the reflection of their character;
…who never place themselves above others  except in carrying responsibilities;
…who will be as honest in small things as in great things;
…who discipline themselves so they will not be disciplined by others;
…who encounter setbacks and turn them into  comebacks;
…who follow a moral compass that points in the right direction regardless of the trends.”

As the incoming president of RCMB, I am willing to share with other clubs the reasons why we have a dynamic and strong club, why we have a good attendance rate at our weekly meetings, why our club’s membership has been continuously growing, why we have strong fellowships or closeness among our members in order to make our DREAMS REAL.

MORE POWER TO DGE BOYET, THE REAL PRESIDENTS,  TO ALL OUR DISTRICT OFFICERS, AND MOST OF ALL TO ALL THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI BUENDIA.

Thank you!

May 5, 2008
CHRISTOPHE PIGANIOL
Makati Ayala

Message in a Bottle

DGE and all classmates,

What a joy to have participated in the DISTAS together today! Enjoying the talks from very good motivational speakers, gathering momentum with classmates, exchanging ideas on projects and obviously having great fellowship promises for much more to come in this upcoming Rotary year. I am so happy to be part of this group!

As you are still dancing I am sure, with Alice leading the way, I am writing to you this email to thank each and everyone for the great fellowship and support I got from the real good, do good, feel good, real presidents. When we sang with the group 3 today and shared that we want to make your dreams come true and let us be “good presidents”, I remember my commitment to DGE Boyet to write about a project I shared with him. Since my son is now sleeping, happily fed by the mother and burped by me, I can get into action and hit the keyboard.

Makati Ayala has 21 members and we are the only breakfast club in the disctrict meeting on Wednesday in Manila golf club. We have a few projects going on such as articifial limbs with Jaipur foot, sponsorship of different activities at the Blessed Hannibal multi level school and Gawad Kalinga housing.

About a year ago, 6 months after I came in our club from HK, I came across an article from my school magazine (French) and saw that students in Engineering were coming all the way to the Philippines to help an organization build buildings, put together project plans… That got me interested and I shared I could help them with some basic transport when they needed express deliveries (being in the field of express transport myself). I very quickly got in touch with their president whom shared a little more about their work. http://www.cameleon-association.org. They are helping sexually abused children in Ilo-ilo and they need support.

After helping them a few times, and also after proper background check about their activity, Laurence the founder came to Manila. I asked to meet with her to see how we could help. She shared that there are Rotary clubs in France who have helped her but that she never managed to get any Rotary club here to support. I know we could do a matching grant project if we were to have a local club but still do not know on what project specifically and who to do it with. I then make the personal pledge that our club will help through me and transportation, but also that we will go forward and try to do more. At that time I have no idea how but I have faith we can really help them in a way and I commit I will try. I understand their requirements and start to think what to do to help.

After a few more months, nothing has happened and I am so sad that we can ony help in a little way here or there. Laurence is back in Manila for a short trip meeting with one of their two god mothers, KC conception. I take that opportunity to ask her to come to our club to speak (remember it is at 7:30am). By complete chance, I also say, I have a lunch the next day with one of my French friends who is a producer, why don’t you join us ?

The first meeting is actually a test of commitment because it is early from where she is coming (she has to leave at 6:30 am but she is there bright and early. One of our members share his connections to a large business from Ilo Ilo whom we have a great chance to gather support from. In addition, our club decides to sponsor two children for three years. I am so happy that we are finally helping in a larger way.

The second meeting is what I did not expect. My agenda is simple : to have lunch and see if there is something that can be done but I have little expectations. This is however when I have the nicest surprise as the producer shares he has an ad space available that he can use to support the association (will air at the end of May). The value of the ad is staggering to me and I have to hear it twice to believe it, he is offering her around PHP 1M worth of advertizing time on GMA … and he will produce the clip pro bono for them. Not only that, he is sponsoring children to come and see how they produce the movies… the Rotary magic has happened, real good people were put together and amazing goodwill starts to happen. The producer does not want to be named and I will respect his wish, but I am so thankfull to him for making dreams real.

As I write now, I still have some tears in my eyes realizing how small my faith was but how great His blessings are. May I call on each of us to have this faith, this little flame inside, to first have those dreams, then make them real. Things do happen when we try. We rarely know where the calling comes from, neither do we know the time, we most of the time have no clue how we will make things happen but we are indeed all called to make those dreams real.

As for the title of this posting, you have guessed it relates to this story, so when was the last time you found your bottle with a message?

Good night to all,

Yours in Rotary,

Apr. 10, 2008
PE RICK LOYOLA
Makati Bonifacio

PETS Experience

First of all, I want to thank and congratulate Gov. Boyet, Gov. Sonny Coloma and the rest of the district officers and organizers of the event, for a job well done.

Reluctance, anxiety and excitement was my general feeling on my way to Clark early Friday morning to catch up with the six o’clock tee off at Mimosa Golf Course.  After a good game with the pros, my ego went one notch up!  After all, it was only my 8th fairway since I learned the game 6 months ago.   To be awarded with a trophy was an electrifying feeling!

After the afternoon session and the great fellowship that night, confidence and eagerness started to build up within me, specially my being with Group 3 who has been very active and energetic that night.  Wow! I feel good, so good that I was looking forward to the next day.  It was a pity, that the other groups practiced a lot for their presentations.  Our group 3 didn’t, and we did it on purpose to lose so others may claim the victory (yabang lang)....

Then start Saturday with a beautiful lady in front to revitalize our body, mind and spirit - the learning did set in!  At the end of the day, I can say that I got a full head of knowledge and a full stomach - after CP Sonie Zamora fed us with Pampanga's best.

The dreaded part of my PETS experience was the thought of ending it too soon and of fulfilling the pledges we were "coerced" to do (hehehe, nagkahiyaan lang ata...)

I was deeply touched after Gov. Boyet delivered his closing remarks, when he shook our hands.  I saw tears of joy in his eyes.  I saw a man in front of me, a true leader who is dedicated to guide us for the Rotary Year 2008-2009.   I told myself,  “I wouldn’t mind adding another presidency to my two existing corporate ones.”  For this one is with honor and previledge to give something back to humanity following the Rotary motto "Service Above Self.”

Gov. Boyet, with you at the helm, we know we will do good, feel good and soooguudd to make dreams real!

Apr. 4, 2008
PE ARLENE CAÑAS
Parañaque  Lakambini

My  dear  Gov. Boyet  and  classmates,

Thank  you  because  you  are  my  governor in my term.  Thank you for a wonderful and unforgettable experience.  Thank you for the all the persons behind our PETS: Rachel, Sonny, Marty,...  The  talks and ideas inculcated by our good speakers in our minds during our PETS still remain.

It is only now that I realized why Rotarians, being club presidents, enjoy their term though given a lot of tasks to do.  It's the camaraderie and fun they share with their classmates. I'm sure we have more than what they have!

Good luck classmates!

Apr. 3, 2008
PE BONG OBRERO
Palanyag-Parañaque

To My Dearest Gov. Boyet and To My Dearest Classmates,

Firstly, I would like to thank “ GOD “ that no untoward event took place in the entire duration of the PETS. Secondly, everyone turned out winners ,happy, enthusiastic and so excited to “Make (Our) Dreams Real. “   And lastly, it is now confirmed that those who attended and finished the PETS are now officially going to become Presidents of their respective clubs come July 1st, 2008.

Gov. Boyet, from the hearts of all your PEs, the PETS was indeed a very good learning experience that all of us can really treasure for as long as we live. The PETS taught us all the values of giving and sharing and the knowledge learned from the 3-days seminar have benefitted us and had tremendous impact on our perception about SERVICE Above Self. Because we are so blessed, it is high time to examine ourselves by sharing our blessings and perhaps, giving a little of ourselves to those who are really in need.

My Governor, My Classmates, allow me to share with you this quotation which I treasured so much;

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.“

On behalf of all my classmates, if they would allow me of course, Gov. Boyet, rest assured that we shall do everything possible to make things right for all our respective clubs in particular and to our district in general. And most importantly of course, we will help to “ Make Dreams Real “ of those many who need the help of our club and of our District 3830.

As always,

Apr. 3, 2008
PE EDS GAN
Makati Salcedo

DGE Boyet, District Officers, Classmates,

The PETS was a blast! Real good, so good, feel good!

Thanks so much to DGE Boyet for opening his real good HEART and SOUL to us.You made us all feel like we are real close family. There's not just learning but more importantly there was love, friendship and caring and everything was just so overwhelmingly good!

The PETS was doubly memorable for me because it was then that I received the great news that my daughter, Polka, passed the bar exam! It was one time in my life when I would have wanted to be with her, to hug and kiss and jump with joy with my only daughter. But, in PETS I found a family who shared my joy and and happiness. The hugs and best wishes that I received from you guys more than compensated for my being away from home during such a victory. My daughter was indeed elated when I told her about your greetings and congratulatory messages. Thank you so much!

To my Electric Dream Group and my clustermates, it was an unforgettable experience working with you. I had real good fun.We will have more of this, right?

Classmates, this is just the beginning... we have to start buckling down to work and have that real good, feel good brand of service be felt by our beneficiaries. Let us "Make Dreams Real"!

Cheers to the Premiere District of Rotary!

Apr. 3, 2008
PE ED CASTILLO
Parañaque South

To my Gov. Boyet Limon, who has touched our hearts, and to our trainers, led by Gov. Sonny Coloma, who shared their time and expertise to each of us president elects, we are grateful and honored to be within and among your presence.

To all the organizers who worked very hard and made sure that all of us were able to attend plenary sessions and lectures, have our rooms ready, and have everything we need, THANK YOU.

To CP Sonie Zamara and the Nepomuceno family who generously shared their beautiful home with us, help us discover our talents and skills and challenge and overcome our fears, THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

And to all my classmates who have been very kind and always there to lend a hand in times of need, THANK YOU.

It is my joy to meet new friends and renew old friendships in our Rotary family. Together as a family, we make dreams real! And make the difference! WE LOVE YOU ALL!

I would also like to make a special mention to our new Rotary member of RCPS, Vincent Caisip and spouse Rose, who stayed for 3 days and helped the organizers with this event. Thank you very much! You have made a good start and I hope that it continues on. Keep it up, bro!

Apr. 1, 2008
PE CHA-CHA CAMACHO
Makati San Lorenzo

Su guuud.... mga kapatid!

My dear Gov. Boyet and fellow dreamers,

It was such an electrifying Dream weekend. It took me almost 48 hours to return to reality. Despite a few unlucky episodes -- a lost camera and an overheated car radiator in the expressway (thank you Gov and CP Sonie for the concern and assistance!), it was an amazing learning experience for me. But more precious was the unexpected brotherhood... sisterhood.... camaraderie ... I felt among my classmates. The oneness in purpose, dreams... was so pervasive in the air, I could almost touch it. I came back to Manila feeling so charged and raring to start MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE!

My CP, some PP's (Tyrone, Mari Lacson, Maridel V. and others), my President Erwyn were all texting and checking on me the whole time, even before I entered the Tollways with the admonition to try to BOND with my fellow PE's (as if I was not sociable enough!). Well today, I proudly reported to them, di lang simpleng BOND ang nangyari -- Mighty Bond na mighty bond na, na-Epoxy pa ako sa classmates ko!!!

Looking back to our PrePETS 1, if this is what being a ROTARY Club President is like, it really sounds silly to be calling ourselves "reluctant Presidents-elect". That being the case, I wouldn't mind doing a Jorge Carmona (with due respect to Lynette) or a GMA stint. Haha! And we've only just begun...

And please, Save the date July 1, Tuesday, our club induction at the National Museum in Luneta. It's a journey back in time... panahon ni Dr. Rizal Nolido, jr... ay! ni Dr. Jose pala, Maria Clara, Padre Damaso at Andres Bonifacio! Kaya, Su Guuuud mga Kapatid!!!!

Oooh, ooh, oooh yeah!

Apr. 1, 2008
PE DEO CUMARAT
Makati Nielsen

The PETS' influence on me was tremendously sublime! It was so full of LOVE... PE Ting Almendral's love manifested when he offered me a ride on his brand spanking new Austin Martin($$@&*)to the destination, bought us lunch and nibble-ons along the way. Isn't that lovely? Every minute of the event was sooo exciting! It has taught me more I had to call my president and past presidents, thanked them genuinely because it made my world grander and my life vibrantly painted tip-top soooo divine! In between sessions,love was in the air shaking each others' hands, smiling, greeting, chatting up. It was absolutely new. Imagine, suddenly you have around a hundred newfound friends!

Thanks to Gov Boyet and his team, and to all my loving fellow PEs. We all deserve each other working harmoniously together for the district's goals. And, on top of the successful event, I thank God for His presence, as His LOVE was very visible all throughout the seminar...

BRAVOOO!!!! Love you all!

deobc

Apr. 1, 2008
PE JOJO ROXAS
Makati Northeast

IN A FEEL GOOD STATE OF MIND

Dear Gov. Boyet, all our District officers and all the Real Good Presidents of D3830,

PETS has been a most spectacular, most inspiring and most challenging experience for me. The friendships, the learnings and the memories will all be forever etched in the corners of my mind and kept burning in my heart... Indelible, indelible.

There is much to be done. But there is of course much to hope and long for.

Let us dream to inspire and inspire to dream. Let us make dreams real!

Maraming, maraming salamat po sa inyo! Mabuhay kayong lahat!

Until we meet again,

Apr. 1, 2008
PE PHILIP CRISTOBAL
Las Piñas South

Re: So Good, We will start to make dreams real!!

To all my classmates and Gov. Boyet,

Only one word before the PETS: EXCRUCIATING. During the PETS class: ENERGIZING. After the PETS: EXCITING.

One Word for Gov.Ed, the speakers and the other volunteer club: ENABLING.

Truly one of the best and unforgettable moments of our lives. The tears of joy from the moments of happiness, the learning experiences, the never-ending challenges and the unforgettable camaraderie between equals borne out of a real desire to serve, without expecting something in return, the true spirit of Rotary has been realized in that brief 3 days.

"Believe then you will achieve!" - William Ward.

Thanks Everyone, now I can face the hurdles with much peace and relentless spirit to move on and feel good, look good and do good!

Philip Cristobal
(Wacky Group 3 and adopted son of Winning Group 2, hehe...)

Apr. 1, 2008
PE ROH SARRA
Puerto Princesa

Dear Governor Boyet and my Real-Good Classmates,

You know, I had been restraining myself from writing because I am so full of emotions. I did not expect PETS would be like what I have experienced. Despite the distance of our club and considering that I was with you only on two occasions (HGR 1 and 2) I was unconditionally embraced by you all, and you even allowed me to connect with what you feel: apprehensions and tentative confidence turned into a strong resolve to serve and accomplish our goals. And seeing how Governor Boyet laid bare himself, speaking from the heart and crying unabashedly, I realize I could cry too and let show my fears and my love.

So, if I were to para-phrase a song, it will be: "At first I was afraid, I was petrified" but with you by my side, "I will survive, Yeh, yeh!"

We may be far from you, but I shall count on our united spirit and goals to bridge that distance. I hope to see you all again. Do come to Puerto Princesa.

Again, thank you Governor Boyet, thanks to your team, and thanks so much my dear classmates.

Yours in Rotary,

Apr. 1, 2008
PE MARIE YAO
Parañaque North

Re: So Good, We will start to make dreams real!!

Hi Gov Boyet,

Mixed emotions ang naramdaman ko sa 3 days PETS namin:

Happy, because I've learned a lot from the expert speakers. I was able to chat with my classmates for so long.

Nervous, kasi di ko alam kung ano kalalabasan ng sayaw namin. Magkakalat ba kami or mag quit na lang? Because it's only last last Saturday na narinig namin yung song, ha-ha-ha!, and we still get the 2nd place.

Sad, kasi malapit ng matapos ang seminar and your speech makes my eyes teary. Anyway, we will see each other more often when our term begins.

To all my classmates, always feel good, look good and make our dreams real!

Thank you Gov. Now I'm confident to be your real president.

Mar. 31, 2008
PE TONY ILAGAN
Makati Buendia

PETS EXPERIENCE

Classmates, it's a wonderful experience for 3 days of fun, learning and camaraderie. I will never forget this event. From day 1 to the last minute. I felt good, did good and sugod ng sugod, he-he-he... I would like to thank all of you guys and especially, Gov Boyet.   Truly Gov, you speak from your heart, and that's the reason why all of us were touched by your speech.   I salute the host clubs for job well done.

Together, lets make our dreams real.

Mabuhay tayong lahat!

Mar. 31, 2008
DGE BOYET LIMON
D3830

So Good! We will start to make dreams real!!

My dear Real Good Presidents,

I am deeply thankful for your presence during your Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETS) last weekend. I hope that you have all arrived safely back in your homes bringing back fond memories and added learnings. Thank your families for me, for understanding your absence for almost 3 days.

It was overwhelming to know that you have enjoyed what we have prepared for you and that some of you would like to have more of this kind of activity. Surely, we will have more.

It is likewise heartwarming to see how you bonded and showed concern for one other. I pray that the friendship you started to build will be your pillar of strength and support to one another as you face the challenges of leading your clubs.  As promised, I will be there to guide you.

Once again, and in behalf of the PETS team, congratulations my Real Good Presidents. Keep that spirit of fellowship in service and service in fellowship burning!!!

PETS 2008 was indeed touching. Another life changing experience for me, for good and for real. Lets start and move forward and make dreams real.

Yours in Rotary,

Mar. 31, 2008
PE JASMIN RODRIGUEZ
Makati EDSA

Ayoko na sana alalahanin ang PETS coz its overwhelming with work to be done, with friends i left behind, with beautiful, helpful people from the district,host clubs, delicious food from ms. sonie, all the lovely PES, and the finale that made me CRY???

PETS ULI TAYO !!!!! UH, UH, UH, YEAH !!!!!

Mar. 31, 2008
PE LITO RAMOS
Parañaque

My PETS Experience

Dear Classmates,

I read some of the emails on your experiences during the PETS and I envy you. For me, everything I experienced were difficulties and hardships:

First of all, I had a hard time leaving the Oasis with the burden of all the memorable moments I spent with all of you.

Second, I found it very difficult to bring back all the new and great ideas that our profound speakers planted in my brain.

Third, I shed a lot of perspiration while waiting for our Group (the winning Group, he, he, yabang no?) to make our presentation. Imagine, I had to cover myself with the black cloth Arnel brought? Malaki pala ang galit sa akin ni Arnel. Pinarusahan ako ng husto. Nabawasan ako ng 20 lbs. Kaya nung lumabas ako as the Genie, payat na ako. Nasira ang impact. And dami ko pa namang kinain para lumaki ang tiyan ko.

Fourth, End of first day pa lang, I already lost my voice. Sayang, nung PETS ko lang masisigawan mga classmates ko, nasira pa. He-he-he. Next time, I'll bring luya so I can shout at you, my classmates, even more.

Fifth and last, the mass held by Father Rocky was the first long mass I ever enjoyed. I did not think of his sermon as a "sermon". To me, he was another "knowledgeable resource speaker" - totally emmersing and enjoyable. I will not miss his promised lunch at Tuloy sa Don Bosco, that's for sure.

OK, last na talaga, - and the most difficult experience of all, was seeing my Governor cry. I didn't know if he was crying because he was happy at the 110 pledges of Paul Harris Fellowships; or because he was afraid his "Feel Good Presidents" would forget all the lessons learned and just keep the enjoyable nights and fellowships; or because he knew the real task was about to begin and he didn't know who among his "Huh-huh Presidents" will become the Huh - das President (sana wala).

Thank you Gov. Boyet, Gov. Sonny, Past Governors, Past Presidents, Classmates (including almost classmate Jorge), for the difficult times you made me endure. I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!

See you again soon.

PE Lito "The Genie" Ramos

Mar. 31, 2008
PE MALOU COSTELLO
Makati Rockwell

Re: PETS Experience

Real nice, and real good. Thank you for a most wonderful PETS experience!

I am amazed to hear how everyone is feeling so loved. I think we are starting our presidency year on the right track. Governor Boyet deserves the big credit for setting the mood by his humility to admit his own vulnerability. Good luck to all.

We are ready to roll our sleeves, Governor.

Mar. 31, 2008
PE GARY GONZALES
Makati San Antonio

Re: PETS Experience

Real good indeed!! I bet all of us are wanting to experience a part 2 of this type :) can't wait for the next fellowship.....

Regards to all!!

Mar. 31, 2008
PE EDWIN DALANGIN
Las Piñas Central

Re: PETS Experience

I AM CONSIDERING ATTENDING THE PETS NEXT YEAR! ANG SAYA!!

NOW I UNDERSTAND WHY JORGE CARMONA WAS WITH US!!! HEHE...

EDWIN DALANGIN
PE, 2008/2009 & 2009/2010
FOREVER GROUP 3

Mar. 31, 2008
PE ABET NOLIDO
Makati Dasmariñas

Re: PETS Experience

It was a great experience indeed. Being able to experience the PETS was enough to say I am glad I accepted the presidency in my club. Yes, I admit I was teary eyed when Gov. Boyet gave his closing remarks.

I am now in Taiwan waiting for my flight to LAX. Had to leave right away because this was a scheduled family vacation since two years ago. My wife and children went ahead. Buti na lang the PETS was worth.

Great pics raffy!!!

See you soon Real Good, So Good Presidents!

Mar. 31, 2008
PE UYE FLORES
Parañaque Midtown

PETS Experience

Our PETS has been so memorable for me. Who doesn't? So much have been learned and so many acquainted and familiar faces have turned into friends! After having this training seminar, I could proudly say, "I am now WHOLE-HEARTEDLY accepting my position in the coming rotary year." Well, of course, with the help of my club members, my fellow REAL PRESIDENTS and our very own Gov. Boyet Limon! Ooh, ooh, ooh... yeahhh!!!

Honestly speaking, if not with the fellowships we had after those exhausting seminars and talks, I may have gone crazy by now! Nakakabaliw talaga! And I'm sure, baka wala nang nakatulog satin sa kakaisip ng mga sinabi ng speakers natin. So, fellowship among us truly strengthens more our relationships to work hand-in-hand, instead of competing with each other.

But you know what classmates? What really inspired me and touched me during our 3-day PETS is the closing speech of our very own Gov. Boyet Limon, saying that he'll always be with us in our journey till the end of our term. And wow!, whose idea was it to play the song "Imagine" during and after his speech? Im sure everybody in the room was teary-eyed as our gov shook our hands one by one. That was really amazing! I really felt we're all a family even though it was just a few days of being together. So, kelan nga uli ang part 2 ng PETS?

So, to my fellow REAL PRESIDENTS, lets all work together, help each other and enjoy every minute of our term!!! God bless us all!!! We're gonna make dreams real! ooh, ooh, ohh... yeah!!!!

Mar. 31, 2008
PE CHRISTOPHE PIGANIOL
Makati Ayala

PETS, regrets to have missed!!!

When I see the beautiful pictures taken by PE Raffy, I am glad to see that PETs was indeed a very high spirited one. I can only regret I could not join the group to share this memorable event as I decided to stay close to my wife whom is still expecting to deliver our second son.

I went to make up my PETS in District 3800, Saturday, the 29th, to stay close to my house (event was held at Makati Sports club) and learnt a lot (they even taught me how to eat Balut, and I liked it !!!)

However I am eager to join our own District Assembly in May to catch up on the learnings I missed. By then, God willing, my second son will be born (due next week end).

In the meantime, if any of you want to join for a golf game in Sta Elena on Friday, the 18th of April, our club is organizing the Paul Harris cup which is the 4th leg of the governor’s cup. We can send you the details separate from this group on a one-on-one basis if you request it directly from Eva at rcmasec@yahoo.com.

Look forward to seeing you at Distas and hope my classmates and cluster fellow PEs can help me catch up to make dreams come true.

Yours in Rotary

Mar. 31, 2008
PE BOY MOLINA
Las Piñas

My Do Good Feel Good Real Good Experience During the PETS

After emptying bottles of Fundador, Well.... Who says I won't Feel Good? Hahahaha! Just like anybody else, I am still having a hangover, not from Fundador, but a hangover from all the colorful experiences I have encountered during the PETS.

Hindi ko halos napansin ang oras, kasi every minute counts. I considered that 3 day PETS encounter as genuine quality time during my bonding moments with my fellow classmates and attentively listening (see? Gov Ed, I'm Listening) to all the speakers.

I almost feel 6 feet tall (actually I stand 5' 3" only) wearing my barong and having photo sessions with everybody but I wish I can still feel the same high in doing all the obligations & responsibilities bestowed on me. Sa totoo lang, di ko akalain na matindi pala ang mga ta-trabahuhin natin kaya napabuntung hininga ako ng malalaim at sabay napalunok sa kaba at nerbiyos... Sabagay, kung nakaya ng iba, dapat makaya ko din! (Naku Po, sana Nga!)

Group 3 is the most wacky group. Masarap at masaya ang naging samahan natin. Sana tuloy-tuloy ito kasama pati ang ibang mga groups sa pagtupad natin ng ating mga Pangarap. Sabay-sabay tayong mangarap nang gising para maisakatuparan natin ang lahat ng mga ito ng may pagmamalaki.

Kung Nuong araw, pahirapan sa akin ang maka graduate ng high school (kasi puro ako kalokohan nuon), aba eh, dito sa PETS, basta pala nasa puso mo na ang pagiging Rotarian, marunong kang makisama at makiiisa at, siyempre, mapagkawanggawa at sensitibo sa mga pangangailangan ng iba, in 3 days lang, graduate ka na!

Gov. Ed, isa pang matindi sa PETS natin ay ang speech mo, na touch ako & I'm sure lahat kami. Kaya sa abot ng makakaya ko, kasama mo kami sa mga pangarap na dapat nating matupad.

Mar. 31, 2008
PE MET SALUDO
Makati Urdaneta

Photos of PETS - Great pictures!

Good morning, Raffy and all our gorgeous classmates! Sakit ng katawan ko when I woke up! Thanks to the challenging exercise led by the beautiful Cory Quirino and Vivian!

Georgeous Raffy! Congratulations on the beautiful pictures you've taken during our PETS! (Lalo na the ones taken at Cam del Sur? I don't know exactly which "Cam" it is..so, since alam niyo na na mahina ako a geography, i'll leave it at that...anyway, going back...obviously, you are a professional photographer!

GALING pare ng shots mo. Saludo ako! .. and that's not because that's my last name, hehehe...  PASENSYA na classmates! Medjo corny ako ngayon. Kakagising ko lang kasi.  The happiness I felt from the PETS is spilling over on this email.  Thank you ALL for making the PETS an unforgettable experience for me.   I look forward to our next get-together and possibly, joint projects together.

FYI, I also took some pictures during PETS. I will ask my daughter later how I can post them sa internet, okay?

Take care, beautiful people :-) Enjoy your day and may the good Lord bless all our thoughts, plans and actions

today and forever more!

Mwah!
Met

Mar. 31, 2008
PE RAFFY YLLANA
Makati Guadalupe

Photos of PETS

Hello classmates!

Our 3-day PETS at Oasis/Mimosa was a blast!

You may view some of the photos and download it (by clicking all sizes) at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/novellsteel/

Till our next assembly.

Feb. 10, 2008
PE JOMARIE "Jomarie" HILL
Parañaque Southeast

More reasons to ENJOY the NOVEMBER 8 DISTRICT RI CONVENTION LAUNCH 

Dear Governor,

I know this is long over due.  I have just started to get into my regular daily schedule which I was not able to control following the opening of the new home of Galley Grill, our 2nd Charter anniversary, the various activities during the holiday season and many important personal family affairs.

My daily routine has gone back to normal but there are still occasions when I could not even get a decent number of hours’ sleep.  Please find below the answers to the questions regarding our club’s “Service Projects”.

1. What are your clubs most significant projects?

Even at only two years old, we have launched and completed many significant projects during the Rotary Shares period, to wit:

• Continuing solicitation of funds for the purchase of a Mobile Soup Kitchen through two (2) bingo socials;
• Opening of the 2nd annual Search Five Outstanding Fire Fighters of Parañaque which was very successful and had many support both from the government and generous benefactors from the private sector.
• Donated several pieces of wheel chairs, through the generosity of Congressman Ed Zialcita;
• Supplementary feeding of our fifty malnourished children in Barangay San Dionisio, another 50 malnourished children in Barangay San Antonio in Parañaque, feeding of 1,000 indigent children and 500 adults in Baseco, Manila, Christmas eve feeding of street dwellers along Roxas Blvd.;
• Giving of 260 pieces of reading glasses to the indigent adults in Baseco, Manila support of our Sagip Mata project;
• Supported the Medical and Dental missions in Barangay San Isidro in Parañaque and in Baseco, Manila;
• The annual Christmas Gift Giving to 25 of the poorest of the poor families in Barangay San Dionisio and the 25 poorest of the poor families in Barangay San Antonio.

2. What factors contributed to the success of your clubs projects?

Honestly, I am thankful that most of our Charter members have kept our projects going. Even smaller groups among us gather to implement supplementary feeding, Sagip Mata and other similar projects without putting additional financial burden on the club’s funds.  We do have some misunderstanding regarding the over zealous nature of the very active Charter members, but at the end of the day, everything is made right because each one of us only wants to help others who need help.

3. What challenges do you face in terms of launching good projects next year?

As early as in November 2007, we have been conceptualizing new projects to launch this year and to make our existing projects more interesting to our donors and patrons so that we would be able to get the funds needed to keep our projects going. The main obstacle I see this year is fatigue among the members because of the many projects we hope to implement this Rotary Year.

4. What are your priority service projects next year?

We are continuing with our major projects like the Mobile Soup Kitchen, Sagip Mata, Search for the 5 Outstanding Fire Fighters of Parañaque, supplementary feeding projects, medical and dental projects.

In addition, we will be launching a new project, which we initiated during of Baseco project. It will be called, “UNANG HAKBANG SA KALUSUGAN”, the project is centered on the children by giving them slippers so that they don’t have to walk barefooted all the time, a first step to creating a habit of keeping their feet clean. Supplemental to this project we will continue to provide a means to make potable drinking water to all, especially to the poor children of the poor communities of San Dionisio  and San Antonio.

5. What can clubs do together in terms of servicing their communities better?

We simply encourage everyone to pitch in, get their hands dirty, so to speak, and get involved in our projects which are mostly dedicated to our poor communities.  We also want to see more progressive clubs giving us some financial support so that we can do more charitable work for our communities.

I am confident with my team this year and the commitment each one of our members have given me early on, I know we can try Make Dreams Real!

Very truly yours,

Jan. 16, 2008
PE ALICE "Alice" A. LUCAS
Taguig West

Hi DGE Boyet Limon! Looking forward to the HGR Pre Pets Series 3 on Feb. 9.  Hope you had a nice experience in San Diego regarding the RI Assembly which you can share with us soon. 

I feel good!

1. What are your clubs most significant projects?

The most significant and continuing club project is the Pan De Vida.  We have a recipient of an Oven which they use for Commercial Bread Making for them to make a living.  From the time it was started the recipients were taught how to bake some commercial bread like Pan de Sal, Spanish Bread, Ensaymada, Pan de Coco etc.  An Oven was provided for them to become productive and be able to roll back the amount spent.

We also have the continuing Adopt A School Project, and this is the Western Bicutan National High School (WBNHA).  We support Interactors and RCC in some of their school projects like:  Tutorial, Sending them for delegation, Graduation & Christmas Party, & Minimal School Developments etc.

2. What factors contributed to the success of your clubs projects?

In every club, the success of its project is always the financial capability to sustain the projects. The support of the club members,  and likewise its recipients.

3. What challenges do you face in terms of launching good projects next year?

Challenges are faced with courage and in terms of launching good projects still money is a big factor.  Maybe more solicitations will be needed in order to make good projects.

4. What are your priority service projects next year?

Whatever the theme for RY2008-2009 like “Make Dreams Real”, that is where we have to align our service projects.  Help in poverty alleviation, improve sanitation and malnutrition for the World’s Children to feel that they are loved.

5. What can clubs do together in terms of servicing their communities better?

Clubs should plan first in terms of servicing the communities better and then do the implementation once it is polished.

AVENUES OF SERVICE

Club Service

• Comprehensive Membership Recruitment, retention and development of new members
• Develop a Primer to promote the Club

Vocational Service

• Adopt A School Project
• Sustain Literacy/Education Projects
• Pan de Vida Project
• Job Fair/Employers Link

Community Service

• Medical Mission Projects
• Livelihood/Outreach Programs
• Community Life Improvement
• Environmental Project

International Service

• The Rotary Foundation
• Paul Harris Fellow
• International Sisterhood

Youth Service

• Interactors/RCC Projects
• Scholarship Grants
• Sports/Fellowship Projects

Nov. 30, 2007
PE JASMINE "Jasmin" RODRIGUEZ
Makati EDSA

RE: PROJECTS

Hi Gov,

Here's my response regarding our club's projects:

1. Most significant projects:

• TULOY SA DON BOSCO
  It started with 12 kids during the term of Father Rocky as president of Rotary Makati Edsa, we applied for matching grant, 3H and other sources. It made the difference in the lives of our street children, especially with the dedication given by the President and members ot the club. Today, we have hundreds of them housed in a 4.5 hectare property in Muntinlupa.  Fr.Rocky recieved the Presidential Service Award for Service to Children from Rotary International.

• ALAY SA LOLO AT LOLA
  Started during the term of PP Ofel Flores. We selected 10 lolos at lolas in GMA cavite. We give wheelchairs and eyeglasses to those in need. We also give them christmas gifts like groceries, bed linen, clothes and shoes every year.

• SAGIP NGITI
  Started during the term of PP Malu Maligaya. 10 graduating kids of Tuloy sa Don Bosco are chosen to be given dentures, especialy front teeth, to give them self-confidence when they apply for work.  It also contributes a lot to their proper nutrition by being able to chew food well, and give a nice smile to everyone.

2. What factors contibuted to the success of the projects:

• Availability of funds, not only from within the club, but also from different other organizations
• Involvement of local governent officials and other organizations from the community
• Support and dedication of the club members and district officers

3. Challenges in launching projects:

• How to convince, encourage and sustain the interest of club members on the projects
• How to raise funds
• How to meet the expectations of benificiaries

4. Priority projects next year:

• Environmental project
• Continuing existing project of the club
• Getting started with the newly formed RCC

5. What can clubs do together:

• Improve the attendance and increase membership
• Cooperation among clubs and members to sustain projects

Thank you,

Nov. 30, 2007
PE JASMINE "Jasmin" RODRIGUEZ
Makati EDSA

Hi Gov,

Here's my response to your questions:

1. CONCEPT OF PRESIDENT'S ROLE

    I am a leader, but only just as good as the members.

2. AS I LOOK FORWARD TO MY PRESIDENCY

    Confident and yet anxious of what I will become.

3. WHAT TO FEEL AT MIDNIGHT OF JUNE 30, 2009

• SAD that I will now belong to the past . . .
• HAPPY that I will look forward to support the future presidents and projects of the club.
• THANKFUL for all the cooperation dedication and support given to me by the club members and all the people who believed in me as President of the Rotary Club of Makati EDSA.

Nov. 23, 2007
PE ROHIMA "Roh" SARRA
Puerto Princesa

Hi Gov,

The following is my belated response to your invitation for PEs to answer your questions:

1. What is your concept of a President's Role?

    It is both of a leader and a servant.

2. My feelings as I look forward to my presidency is of trepidation yet at the same time of quiet resignation like:  "though unwillingly thrust into this office, I might as well see this through!"

3. At midnight of June 2009, I anticipate feeling sorry that my term as president has ended; that I shall have been considerably rotarized, I will be impelled to work more and support the next club president for the success of our club endeavors.

Nov. 14, 2007
PE ALICE "Alice" A. LUCAS
Taguig West

Hi Gov,

Following are my replies to the questions:

1) My concept of a president's role?

My concept of a Rotary Club President is a person who is willing to be of service to others and an instrument to fulfill the objectives of the Rotary International (RI)

2) What are my feelings as I look forward to my presidency?

My feelings as I look forward my presidency is fear not to meet the expectations of my fellow Rotarians and the obstacles that may hinder the success of my intention to serve

3) What would I like to feel at midnight of June 2009?

At the midnight of June 30, I feel I am brave for I did not decline in the difficult task which I know will change my life for the betterment of our society we live in.

Oct. 25, 2007
PE RICK "Rick" LOYOLA
Makati Bonifacio

Hi Gov,

Pls include my write up on the topic as requested.

1) My concept of a president's role?

First of all, to be elected to the post of a club president means that all members have concensus on their trust in you as their leader. I have to capitalize on that trust to get their full support during my presidency in order that all of our planned activies and projects may be accomplished.

2) What are my feelings as I look forward to my presidency?

Actually I have mixed feelings in accepting the presidency, partly reluctant to the sense that I thought there are other members of the club who are more qualified than I am. On the other hand, in as much that they had choosen me for the job, it raises my adrenalin to meet the challenge. I am a man who's when committed, never turns his back.

3) What would I like to feel at midnight of June 2009?

If I can muster all support of my members, I will be able to implement all projects that I'd like to make. I will feel fulfilled knowing that my presidency really made a difference. Then, I can say I made it and celebrate.

Oct. 24, 2007
PE NESTOR C. "Nestor" DACILLO
Las Piñas West

Dear DGE Boyet,

Sorry for the late response, just arrived from an out of town trip.

Here's my response:

1. What are my feeling as I look forward to my presidency?

    Nervous and with a little bit hesitation

2. What would I like to feel at midnight of June 2009?

    Thank God, I survived!

Regards,

Oct. 22, 2007
PE EDDIE "Ed" L. CASTILLO
Parañaque South

Dear DGE Ed Limon,

Good day!

Here's my answer to the 3 questions:

1. My Concept of President's Role?

Rotary presidents are the role models of their club and to the community.

2. What are my feelings or "I look forward to my presidency..."?

I feel proud and privileged for being elected as president of my club. It's An opportunity for me to share my time and expertise in helping others, especially the youth and adults in the area of drug-abuse and help save lives.

3. What would I like to feel at midnight of June 30?

Let us all celebrate and thank our club members, our past presidents for the privilege. Feels great!

Sincerely,

Oct. 21, 2007
PE CHAD REY "Chad" CARUNGIN
RC Muntinlupa

Hi Gov,

My initial trepidation about being PE has somewhat been alleviated upon knowing that a majority of us had the same reservations when elected for this leader's role. The interesting stories behind each of the Rotary PE's manner of election speaks of the way Rotary can touch the lives of people in dire search for a purpose. It is with the likes of us that each of our clubs will be given life that is badly needed for the infusion of second generation servants and entry of humanitarian volunteers should shift the tide in favor of the our survival instead of possible extinction. We are just about ripe for leadership for those who do not readily aspire for power are the most qualified to possess it, since we realize that it is a responsibility and a privilege rather than a personal gain. Our quest for better projects, more members and strategies to strengthen our own clubs are enough to inspire us to be competent if not courageous heads of District 3830.

I look forward to the Rotary year 2008- 2009 with excitement and foreboding and this ambiguity I think is in place to caution us to play it safe during our term; but come our last day of service in 2009, I believe that we will be saddened by our departure from our posts but also proud to have been given an opportunity to lift our clubs to new heights and be remembered as the ROTARY President who HIT the Ground running.

Thanks to the foresight of our DGE Boyet Limon and his staff, this new practice of planning ahead will be the beginning of better things to come.