Luntiang Maynila Response Team, a group of dedicated volunteers who played a crucial role in ensuring the success and safety of the Philippine Airlines 42nd Manila International Marathon on February 24, 2024. This remarkable team is comprised of individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to community service and their passion for sports.

​The team members include:

​1. HCP Saturnino Salazar and PP Arnil Señoron-42k Escort: These two volunteers were instrumental in guiding and supporting the participants in the 42-kilometer race, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the marathon.

​2. Peter Salazar and Christian Rey Canillo-21k Escort: This duo provided invaluable assistance to the 21-kilometer race participants, ensuring they had a smooth and enjoyable experience.

​3. James Ezra Del Rosario and Joselito Bion-10k Escort: The 10-kilometer race participants greatly benefited from the guidance and support provided by this pair of volunteers, who ensured a memorable and secure race for all.

​4. Mark Anthony Estoya and Louie Agawa-5k Escort: These volunteers were responsible for the 5-kilometer race, ensuring the participants had a fun and safe experience while completing their race.

​5. Zeus Rollo, Carlos De Imus, and Ace Samson-Roving Marshalls: These three individuals played a vital role as roving marshals, providing support and assistance to participants throughout the entire marathon route, ensuring everyone's safety and well-being.

​The Luntiang Maynila Response Team's dedication and hard work during the Philippine Airlines 42nd Manila International Marathon truly exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and community service. Their unwavering commitment to making the event a success showcases their passion for sports and their desire to contribute positively.

July 20, 2024, will be remembered as a day of action and compassion for the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime and Rotaract Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime as they embarked on their joint initiative, "Empowering Communities: A Day of Action". The project aimed to improve the lives of 350 Dumagat families residing in the three areas of Sitio Kambubuyugan, Sitio Tubigan, and Sitio Durumugan, Barangay Kalawakan, DRT Bulacan.

The day began with a bold move as the teams planted 250 seedlings of kalamansi at Sitio Kambubuyugan, providing a sustainable source of income for the community. This was followed by the distribution of essential items to the families, including backpack bags filled with school supplies for the school children, nutritious milk, multivitamins, and medicines for the mothers and children. The team's dedication to improving the lives of these families was palpable as they worked tirelessly to ensure every family received their much-needed supplies.

As the teams moved from one area to another, they also set up a water source at Sitio Tubigan, which will serve as the future Luntiang Maynila camp site. This crucial infrastructure development will provide a reliable source of clean water for the community, improving their overall health and well-being.

The team also showed their support for the community by donating trophies for the basketball tournament held at Sitio Durumugan. The event brought together the community members and Rotary Club members alike, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity.

In addition to these activities, the team conducted an orientation on peace and order in the community, led by Rtn Dick Perlas. The session aimed to educate the community members on the importance of maintaining peace and order within their surroundings, promoting a sense of responsibility and ownership.

The project's success was made possible through the generous funding of Regis Foundation, Inc., which covered all expenses worth PHP 75,000. The joint initiative by Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime and Rotaract Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime was a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication to empowering communities.

As the sun set on this day of action, the Rotary Club members and Rotaractors knew that their efforts would have a lasting impact on the lives of these 350 Dumagat families. The project was a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals come together to make a difference in their communities.

The Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime, under the guidance of MIP Elberto Regis, is proud to announce the continuation of our impactful tree planting project, "Seeding Sustainability: Part 3 of Green Initiative." This initiative aims to promote environmental stewardship and enhance community well-being through the planting of a variety of fruit-bearing trees in Barangay Kalawakan.

Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts as we expanded our greening activity into three key areas: Sitio Kambubuyugan, Sitio Tubigan, and Sitio Durumugan. These locations serve as vital sites for our Luntiang Maynila Camp Site, where community involvement and environmental education converge.

In Sitio Durumugan, our dedicated team of volunteers successfully planted 50 kalamansi seedlings, contributing to both biodiversity and the local economy. These seedlings not only provide a valuable source of nutrition but also create green spaces that can help combat climate change and enhance the beauty of the surroundings.

"Seeding Sustainability" is not just about planting trees; it is about fostering a culture of environmental awareness and sustainability within our community. We believe that by engaging local residents and involving them in these activities, we can inspire a lasting commitment to preserving our natural resources for future generations.

As we gather today to celebrate this achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to continue this essential work in the coming months and years. Together, we can cultivate a greener, more sustainable future for Barangay Kalawakan and beyond. Thank you to all our volunteers, partners, and supporters who make this project possible. Let’s keep the momentum going!

On September 25, 2024, the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime proudly took another step towards nurturing our planet with the launch of "Seeding Sustainability: Part 2 of the Green Initiative." This ambitious project set out to inspire eco-friendly practices and bolster the conservation of our precious natural resources within the community. Against the backdrop of a stunning day in Sitio Durumugan, Barangay Kalawakan, DRT Bulacan, an energetic team of volunteers and enthusiastic local residents united to plant 500 Kalamansi seedlings- a testament to their shared commitment to the environment.

The event was spearheaded by MIP Elberto Regis, whose vision for a greener future resonated with every participant. Joined by five dedicated members of the local Dumagat community, each with their own story of respect and kinship with nature, the day turned into a beautiful convergence of tradition and innovation. The Dumagat, with their rich heritage and ecological wisdom, provided invaluable insights that transformed our planting efforts into a cultural exchange, reminding everyone of the deep-rooted connection we all share with Mother Earth.

The day kicked off with an inspiring introduction underscoring the vital importance of tree planting and environmental conservation. Volunteers and Dumagat members fanned out to identify optimal areas for the seedlings, ensuring each one would receive the sunlight and nourishment it needed to thrive.

As the sun illuminated the tranquil landscape, the spirited team dug into their tasks, coaxing life from the soil with every hole they created. The laughter and camaraderie that echoed through the trees filled the air with a sense of unity. With each seedling planted, we were not just crafting a greener future; we were building bonds that would grow alongside these young trees.

As the last Kalamansi seedling nestled into its new home, we paused to absorb the transformation around us. The desolate landscape had blossomed into a verdant tapestry full of promise- each seedling a symbol of hope for future generations that would benefit from the shade, shelter, and sustenance these trees would provide.

An additional highlight of the day was our collective effort to clean the Luntiang Maynila campsite. With teamwork and determination, we gathered litter, ensuring that our beloved site remained pristine and inviting for all who cherish it.

The success of “Seeding Sustainability: Part 2 of the Green Initiative” is a poignant reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives and the importance of engaging local stakeholders in environmental conservation. Huge thanks to our partners and participants; your contributions made this endeavor possible.

As we continue this important journey towards sustainability and community development, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in our story. Together, we are sowing the seeds for a brighter, greener future- one plant at a time. Join us in this crucial initiative, and let’s cultivate change together!

In the picturesque Barangay Kalawakan, embraced by rolling hills and lush greenery, the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime embarked on an ambitious journey towards environmental restoration. This effort was spearheaded by the Charter President, Elberto Regis, whose vision—to cultivate communities committed to sustainable practices—was set into motion during the club's signature project, the "Green Initiative: A Forest Rebirth."

On March 9, 2024, excitement filled the air as Elberto and community members gathered at Sitio Tubigan for the project's official launch. Clad in vibrant green shirts representing their cause, volunteers, families, and children came together to plant assorted fruit-bearing trees in an abandoned patch of land that held the promise of rebirth.

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for our environment,” Elberto declared, his enthusiasm infectious. “Together, we are planting seeds of hope, not only for our forests but for our community and future generations!”

That day, dozens of volunteers sank shovels into the earth, digging holes for the saplings that symbolized their commitment to a greener Philippines. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the excitement of the first planting hung in the air, with laughter and camaraderie strengthening their resolve. They cleared spaces for what would soon transform into the Luntiang Maynila Camp Site—a center for learning, community engagement, and adventure tourism.

In the following months, the vision for the camp site continued to unfold. On July 20, 2024, another gathering saw the planting of 250 kalamansi seedlings in Sitio Cambubuyugan. As the community worked side by side, they shared knowledge about environmental stewardship and the significance of sustainable agriculture. Families learned about the benefits of fruit trees, envisioning future harvests that would enrich their lives and promote local economic growth. This tree-planting event emphasized that their efforts were ongoing; the Green Initiative was not a one-time event but a continuous commitment to restoration and growth.

With the momentum building, the club organized another planting event on September 25, 2024, at Sitio Durumugan, where they planted an additional 500 kalamansi seedlings. As the number of seedlings increased, so did the passion and enthusiasm of the participants. Elberto felt a deep sense of pride as the community gathered for yet another exciting day of action. “Each seedling we plant today reflects our promise to nurture the earth and each other,” he remarked, inspiring everyone present.

The continuous tree-planting activities signified the relentless dedication of the Rotary Club and the community to revive their natural surroundings. On October 26, 2024, another 50 seedlings were planted, reinforcing their mission to restore the local ecosystem while providing a sustainable food source for future generations.

In parallel to the ecological efforts, Elberto envisioned the Luntiang Maynila Camp Site becoming a hub for adventure and outdoor sports. Plans were underway to introduce trail running and various outdoor programs, promoting an active lifestyle while fostering a connection to nature. With miles of eco-friendly trails designed for running, biking, and walking, the camp site was set to become a prime destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Dedicated spaces for workshops and seminars would soon be established, allowing community members to learn about environmental conservation, practical gardening, and outdoor activities. The introduction of fishing and vegetable planting areas alongside the expanding camp site signified a multifaceted approach aimed at engaging both the mind and body in sustainable practices.

As the months progressed, the Green Initiative solidified its role as a beacon of hope and change, where continued tree-planting activities and community engagement cultivated a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders. Elberto knew that every small action taken by the Rotarians and the community would contribute to a legacy of sustainability and adventure.

Under the shade of their growing trees and the vast skies above, the promise of a lush and vibrant future guided them all, reminding each participant that together, they were not just planting trees—they were sowing the seeds for a healthier, more sustainable world.

 

Area of Focus:

#Environment

#Community Economic Development

Today, I visited an innovative solid waste management facility featuring the Solid Waste Gasification Machine (SWGM), developed by a Japanese researcher and manufactured in the Philippines in 2023. Engineers Anil Kumar and Jade Aldrin Cuentas explained that the SWGM can gasify solid waste to produce synthesis gas, inert ash, char, and more, while operating efficiently on various waste types.

This technology offers numerous benefits, including minimal smoke, low land and resource requirements, and the ability to expedite waste processing—turning waste into energy in just 30 minutes, unlike traditional landfills. The SWGM can also help alleviate public health concerns linked to landfill exposure and can extend landfill life or rehabilitate existing sites.

Despite its significant advantages, the SWGM faces slow adoption in the Philippines due to local government challenges. However, its potential to enhance waste management, reduce pollution, and protect public health makes it a promising solution that municipalities should consider implementing.