District Activities & News

By Nikkole Anne Marie “Nikki” Parlade
Member, Rotary Club Manila Supreme 198

Forging the Vanguard:

The Blueprint for a Year of Lasting Impact

As we stand at the dawn of a new Rotary year, the energy across District 3810 is palpable. While we officially begin our journey this July under the inspiring leadership of District Governor (DG) Maria Rosa “Bing” N. Carrion, the strategic foundation for our success was meticulously laid months ago. The District Team Learning Seminar (DTLS), held on March 7, 2026, served as the crucible where our goals were forged, our leadership team was unified, and our operational standards were set. Gathering at the campus of St. Peter the Apostle School along President Quirino Avenue Extension, Manila, district leaders converged for a day of alignment, hosted by the Rotary Club of Quirino Manila Central.

DG Bing Carrion

IPDG Mary Mei Rodrigo

The seminar, which followed a disciplined schedule that started at 7:00 AM, was a masterclass in administrative precision, thanks to the stellar leadership of DTLS Chair and District Secretary (DS) Ricky Ongchan. True to one of DG Bing’s primary directives for her term—a steadfast commitment to Punctuality—the event started strictly on time, expertly managed and kept on schedule by Master of Ceremony SDG Michael Roy “Mike” Soliman. The morning commenced with a prompt Call to Order by then-DG and now Immediate Past District Governor (IPDG) Mary Mei Rodrigo, whose message anchored the proceedings in a legacy of service.

The plenary sessions brilliantly highlighted the strategic timeline of our district leadership. Attendees listened intently to a vital presentation on “District Leadership in Rotary” delivered by then-DGN and now District Governor-Elect (DGE) Elmer Francis “Jun” Pasion, whose insights mapped out the torch-passing of visionary management. Following a gracious introduction by Deputy District Executive Secretary (DDES) Tracy Esteban, our current District Governor, then DGE Bing Carrion, delivered her vision, outlining a roadmap focused on execution, discipline, and creating a lasting impact across our communities. This vision was seamlessly translated into operational parameters through a comprehensive seminar overview by District Learning Facilitator and Past District Governor (PDG) Josefina “Josie” Ang.

A critical component of the day’s success was the deep-dive instructional tracks that moved beyond generalities and into the mechanics of effective governance. Eschewing an active learning lecture approach, the seminar utilized specialized breakout sessions to equip different leadership tiers with the specific tools they required. The Assistant Governors engaged in intensive modules regarding the “Governor’s Challenge,” the “Club Excellence Award,” the District Reports, and the critical protocols for the Team Visits and Governor’s Visits. These sessions, facilitated by a dedicated team of District Learning Facilitators including Anthony Chua, Linda Cristobal, Larry Colinares, Marcelina Supsup, Rochelle Mammuad-Gonzales, and Darlene Dizon, ensured that our field leadership would be ready to hit the ground running.

PDG Josie Ang 

ARPIC Majella Villaroman 

DGE Jun Pasion

Simultaneously, the District Committee Chairs focused on the administrative and logistical excellence required to organize quality district programs and events. Under the guidance of District Learning Facilitators like Marianito Siasat, Pen Albaran, and Raymond Ciriaco, the chairs refined guidelines for event hosting and fellowship coordination. This dual-track approach ensured that while the Assistant Governors focus on club health, the District Committees are prepared to provide the robust programming and fellowship opportunities that define the true Rotary experience.

Beyond the technical training, the DTLS prioritized the human element of leadership. Strategic team-building exercises, led by Zone 10A Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator (ARPIC) Majella Villaroman, were woven throughout the day to break down administrative silos and foster genuine collaboration. These moments of synergy allowed our leaders to build the personal rapport necessary to navigate the challenges of the coming year as a single, cohesive unit.

The seminar concluded with a powerful sense of readiness as DG Bing, supported by PDG Josie distributed certificates to the participants during the closing ceremonies. Today, we see the fruits of that labor. The leaders who gathered in March are no longer just “elects” or “nominees”—they are the active vanguard of District 3810, fully equipped, perfectly synchronized, and inspired to turn our shared vision into a reality.