District Activities & News
By Aida Go
Past President, Rotary Club of Manila San Miguel
Cultivating Impact:
PELS Sets the Course for the New Rotary Year
As the Rotary Year 2026-2027 officially commences, the leaders of Rotary International District 3810 are ready to hit the ground running. Looking back at the pivotal gathering held from March 20 to 22, 2026, the exquisite setting of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar served as the staging ground for the Presidents-Elect Learning Seminar (PELS). This essential seminar equipped the Impact-Creating Presidents (ICPs) with the vision, tools, and camaraderie necessary to lead their clubs toward a transformative term.
A Legacy of Continuity
The seminar served as a meaningful bridge between administrations. As the district moves forward, we honor the steady leadership of Immediate Past District Governor (IPDG) Mary Mei Rodrigo, who graced the opening plenary. Her message regarding the essence of Rotary service and the importance of leadership continuity set a resonant tone for the seminar, reminding all in attendance that while club presidents may change, the commitment to service remains the heartbeat of the organization.
District Governor Maria Rosa “Bing” N. Carrion, now steering the district’s helm, expressed deep gratitude for the solid foundation laid by her predecessor and the dedication shown by our new leaders.
Hosted with Excellence
The event’s success was largely due to the meticulous efforts of the Rotary Club of Manila San Miguel (RCMSM). Under the guidance of District Trainer (PDG) Josefina “Josie” Ang, the leadership of Immediate Past President (IPP) Marissa Patricio, and the dedicated oversight of PELS Committee Chair—and RCMSM Past President—Marcelina “Marci” Supsup, the club transformed the venue into a hub of learning and fellowship.
DG Bing Carrion was quick to commend the club, noting that the overwhelming attendance and seamless preparations were a testament to the spirit of collaboration that defines District 3810.
DG Bing Carrion
Learning Facilitators headed by District Trainer PDG Josie Ang (leftmost)
Equipping the Impact-Creating Presidents
The core of PELS was a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare the ICPs for the challenges and triumphs of the year ahead. Through a series of intensive sessions, learning facilitators shared vital expertise:
Club Operations: Learning Facilitator (LF) Darlene Dizon unpacked the responsibilities of the presidency, while LF Larry Colinares guided the leaders on the nuances of Team Visits and the Governor’s Visit.
Administration & Growth: LF Linda Cristobal spoke at the plenary about the District’s organizational structure, LF Raymond “Rayms” Ciriaco provided essential briefings on Semiannual Reports (SAR), district fees, and the significance of the Philippine Rotary Magazine (PRM) and Environmental Awards. Strategies for membership growth were tackled by LF Pen Albaran, and LF Rochelle Gonzales provided insights into the Midyear Review.
Service & Impact: The heart of Rotary was front and center, with LF Marcelina “Marci” Supsup discussing The Rotary Foundation (TRF), and LF Marianito “Nito” Siasat detailing the Seven Areas of Focus. Additionally, Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator (ARPIC) Majella Villaroman emphasized the importance of storytelling through Rotary’s Public Image.
Fellowship and Inspiration
Education was balanced with a deep sense of community. Evenings at Plaza Garchitorena and Plaza Tobias offered a reprieve from the rigors of the classroom. The “Pista sa Nayon” themed dinner and the vibrant dance presentations by the ICPs served as a reminder that Rotary is, at its core, a family.
A special highlight was the debut of the official theme songs—a ballad and a dance version—for the “Create Lasting Impact” campaign, composed by Senior Deputy Governor (SDG) Michael Roy “Mike” Soliman. The music was met with widespread acclaim, energizing the crowd as it was heard for the first time.
The Completion
The seminar culminated on March 22 with a goal-setting workshop, where the ICPs translated their learning into concrete plans for their respective clubs. Joined by PDG Josie Ang, DG Bing N. Carrion personally presented Certificates of Completion to the attendees.
Capturing the Spirit of the Nation
The final day of PELS transitioned from the classroom to the cinematic as attendees traded business attire for elegant Filipiniana shortly after lunch. The afternoon was dedicated to the filming of the District 3810 Lupang Hinirang AVP—a project conceptualized by DG Bing N. Carrion and directed by SDG Mike Soliman.
The production journey took the cast and crew across the beautiful landmarks of the resort
Hotel De Oriente: The primary location featured a grand assembly of ICPs, the Executive Committee, District Officers, and Rotarians from RC Manila Supreme 198 and RC Manila San Miguel. Notable leaders present included DGE Elmer Francis “Jun” Pasion, DGN Herminio “Hermie” Esguerra, and PDGs Ernesto “Ernie” Choa, Ernesto “Ernest” Yuyek, Joyce Michelle Ambray, Concepcion “Connie” Beltran, and Josefina “Josie” Ang with PP John Ang. The shoot included symbolic solo sequences of DG Bing ascending the grand staircase.
Plaza Garchitorena:
The staircase to the lagoon provided a picturesque set for the Manila Area ICPs.
Y Bridge:
The Cavite Area ICPs took center stage at this iconic location.
Plaza Tobias:
The Pasay and Occidental Mindoro Area ICPs gathered here for their shot.
This ambitious AVP was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Seagull Philippines, Inc., Supreme Elite Resources, Inc., and Rafeli Realty and Development Corporation.
A Call to Action
As the PELS adjourned, the atmosphere was one of quiet confidence. With their goals aligned and their spirits high, the Impact-Creating Presidents of District 3810 have officially embarked on a year where they do not just serve—they leave a lasting, meaningful impact on the communities they represent.
The stage is set. The tools are in hand. The time to Create Lasting Impact begins.
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