After almost a month of attending Induction and Turnover ceremonies of the different Rotary Clubs in the City of Iloilo, as well as our sister clubs in Negros, Cebu, Roxas, Guimaras, Dumangas, Manila and Zamboanga, it is time to face the task of formulating and implementing projects of our club. We received a sizable amount of donations intended for the victims of Typhoon Frank from our sister clubs, generous friends and members. So far, we have already conducted jointly with the Phil. Medical Association and Iloilo Medical society 3 medical missions with thousands of beneficiaries in each mission.

We are still obliged to do more since we still have money left for the task that our donors expected us to do. If we want to take the easier route, we can buy sacks of rice, noodles and sardines and give it to the intended beneficiaries. But I wish to put the money in good use by creating projects that will have big impact and highly sustainable, intended to give long term benefits to the victims of Typhoon Frank, especially the children. By doing this, we are at the same time initiating and supporting projects that are within the context of the goal of RI President Lee in reducing child mortality by way of literacy, health, clean water and good environment. It is now the time for rehabilitation, healing the wounds they suffered, nursing them back to their normal lives and planning for their future. Let’s get back to business and make a difference.

I would like to remind the different committee chairmen to finish and submit their plans and programs for Rotary Year 2008-2009 for consolidation, in time for our report to the Governor on her visit on August 19, 2008.

I would like to remind our members to pay their monthly dues, induction assessment and other accounts since our RI Dues and PRM payments will be due this month of August 2008.