(In the photo) Left: Loveday Alyssa Oabel, President of the Rotary Club of Tayabas Central Center: Clark Mardon Obmerga, President of the Rotary Club of Tayabas and Past President of the Rotaract Club of Tayabas Central Right: Jamil Quitlong, President of the Rotaract Club of Tayabas Central
Realizing that an Aeta community in Barangay Tongko, Tayabas City has no toilet and human waste segregation system, the Rotaract Club of Tayabas Central, together with the Rotary Club of Tayabas Central (their sponsor club) and the Rotary Club of Tayabas, thought of installing a communal comfort room in the said community. After gathering financial support from its 28 partner Rotaract Clubs across the country, the Rotaract Club finally turned over the comfort room last October 18, 2020. The comfort room project coupled with sanitation and hygiene education in the community was hailed as the Most Outstanding Rotaract Club Service Project in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in the recently concluded Pilipinas Rotaract Awards 2021.
This May 2021, Philippine Rotaract Magazine proudly presents its premiere issue. It focuses on how Rotaractors in the Philippines have been rising to the challenge of digital innovation amidst the threat of COVID-19. It also shows how they have been adapting and taking advantage of the shift to the digital platform that has so far opened more opportunities for members’ engagement and community service.
From working at home to serving virtually, Rotaractors explored digital apps and tools to conduct one-of-a kind virtual activities, to digitize the organization’s operating model, and to mobilize various stakeholders in helping communities endure the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic.
Rotaractors also acknowledge the value of working together. In living up to the true spirit of Elevate Rotaract, Rotaract works with Rotary in navigating the new normal, facing and co-creating the present and future together. In this time of a pandemic, Rotaractors were still able to showcase their full ability despite the limited movement and survive with enthusiasm. And as they gear up towards digitization, doors of opportunities also open to continue transforming communities in the best way Rotaractors can.
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