On Day 1 of the Rotaract Philippine Roundtrip, the bustling streets of Manila played host to six spirited Rotaractors from across the globe. These adventurers, hailing from Germany, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, and beyond, embarked on an unforgettable Filipino odyssey, shepherded by the ever-dedicated Rotaract Club of Manila.
The project, a brilliant concoction originally brewed by PP Kristine Karen Reyes-Cuales and later revitalized by PDRR Ian de Borja and the Rotaract Club of San Pedro East, is more than just sightseeing—it’s a cultural melting pot wrapped in jeepney rides and Filipino hospitality.
This year’s international participants hailed from diverse corners of the world:
- Alexia Spricigo – Rotaract Club de Jaragua do Sul (District 4652)
- Moritz Damm – Rotaract Club of Düsseldorf (District 1870)
- Joana Becker – Rotaract Club of Bochum (District 1900)
- Lionel Roth – Rotaract Club of Brussels Coudenberg International (District 2140)
- Kira Rudolph – Rotaract Club of Bayreuth (District 1800)
- Auriane Arnoulin – Rotaract Club de Île de Montréal (District 7040)
Exploring Old Manila: The Past Comes to Life
The adventure began in the heart of Old Manila, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture painted vivid stories of the past. With a huge thanks to the Intramuros Administration, the group traversed iconic landmarks such as Casa Manila, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, and the timeless Fort Santiago. They even hopped onto the historical Tranvia, soaking in the charm of the Pasig River Esplanade.
As the tour of Intramuros unfolded, Lionel Roth from the Rotaract Club of Brussels Coudenberg International and Alexia Spricigo from the Rotaract Club de Jaragua do Sul struck up an animated conversation. Seating amidst the centuries-old Tranvia of the Walled City, they marveled at how history connects distant corners of the world.
Strolling past the cobblestone streets, Lionel drew parallels to Belgium’s own historic sites, while Alexia reflected on the shared resilience of communities that have preserved their cultural treasures. The conversation seamlessly wove together anecdotes of Belgian and Brazilian legacies, punctuated by mutual awe for the vibrant tapestry of Filipino history that Intramuros offered.
Lunch was a feast of flavors at Bacolod Chicken House in Intramuros, where international palates met the magic of Filipino cuisine. But this was just the appetizer—quite literally!
As the aroma of grilled chicken filled the air at Bacolod Chicken House, Pres. Summer Bonifacio of the Rotaract Club of Manila brought a delicious dose of nostalgia to the table—literally. Unpacking a small collection of classic Filipino childhood chips, she shared stories of carefree days spent crunching on these beloved snacks. From tangy Mikmik to the ever-iconic Iced Gem Biscuits, her tales painted vivid pictures of Filipino childhood joys.
The International Rotaractors couldn’t help but join in the trip down memory lane, sharing their own childhood favorites. Lionel Roth, from Belgium, reminisced about growing up with Paprika Lays, while Alexia Spricigo from Brazil smiled as she described the sweet and salty flavors of Pipoca Doce, a caramelized popcorn that was a staple during family gatherings. Joana Becker chimed in with fond memories of the Gummy Bear that were an essential part of her German school lunches.
The journey continued to Sta. Cruz, Manila, for a visit to Escolta Street and the historic Sta. Cruz Church. The group also found themselves walking through Ongpin Street in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown. This was the perfect place for the roundtrippers to stretch their legs, explore the bustling streets, and indulge in the legendary hopia—a local treat that’s part pastry, part perfection.
Dinner, Games, and Camaraderie
As the day transitioned to evening, the group made their way to Romulo’s Cafe in Makati City for a grand welcome dinner, attended by several Rotaract Clubs, including Calumpit, Carmona, Cavinti, San Pedro East, Tiaong Transforming New Gen, and Manila.
The event kicked off with Past Pilipinas Rotaract MDIO Chair Atty. Manuel Joseph Franco of District 3770 as host and a heartfelt opening speech by PP Karla Ravida of the Rotaract Club of Manila, who shared her own fond memories of the Roundtrip. PDRR Ian de Borja, the visionary chairman of the event, added his insights, while PP Bhea Santiago of the Rotaract Club of San Pedro East introduced the International Rotaractors.
As the evening unfolded at Romulo’s Cafe, the spotlight turned to one of the event’s highlights: introducing the International Rotaractors to the Filipino game, “Eh Ikaw.” What began as a lighthearted explanation quickly turned into a vibrant display of energy and hilarity.
The rules were simple, but the execution? Not so much! With quick gestures and witty exclamations, the game had everyone on their toes—literally. Joana Becker from Germany cracked up as she fumbled her turn, while our very own PP Karly from Manila tried and hilariously lose the game, crowd erupted into cheers and laughter as each round grew more competitive.
“It’s like charades but with extra chaos—and a lot more pointing!” quipped Joana Becker, earning a round of applause from her fellow participants.
The welcome dinner at Romulo’s Cafe turned into an impromptu cultural showcase as the international Rotaractors took to the spotlight. Armed with stories, accents, and goodies from their homelands, they introduced themselves with flair—and a side of delicious treats.
As the stories and snacks made their rounds, laughter filled the room. From Brazil to Belgium, Canada to Germany, each Rotaractor added a piece to this rich cultural mosaic, proving that good food and great stories are the ultimate global language.
Cheers to Day 1: A Toast at Alamat Filipino Cuisine
After an unforgettable welcome dinner at Romulo’s Cafe, we knew the day deserved a proper finale. What better way to cap off an epic Day 1 than by introducing the international Rotaractors to the buzzing nightlife of Poblacion, Makati City? Destination: Alamat Filipino Cuisine, a bar famed for its hip ambiance and proudly local flavors.
As the group settled into the cozy yet vibrant spot, glasses were raised, and smiles stretched from ear to ear. “To a day filled with history, hopia, and jeepney rides!” someone proclaimed, eliciting a round of cheers (and maybe a few chuckles). Lionel Roth, ever the diplomat, quipped, “This is a toast worthy of Belgian beer—but Filipino cocktails are giving them a run for their money!”
While sipping on Alamat’s craft concoctions, the Rotaractors couldn’t stop buzzing about the day’s highlights. Alexia Spricigo marveled at the beauty of Intramuros, while Mo Bro (Rtr. Moritz Damm) hilariously admitted he was still trying to master the rules of “Eh Ikaw.”
Between clinking glasses and hearty laughter, conversations effortlessly flowed, bridging cultures and celebrating newfound friendships.
From left to right: Rtr. Hans Villamor – Rotaract Club of Manila; Rtr. Lionel Roth – Rotaract Club of Brussels Coudenberg International; Rtr. Moritz Damm – Rotaract Club of Dusseldorf; PP Karly Ravida and Public Image Director John Carlo De Guzman – Rotaract Club of Manila.
Through games, stories, and even a spoonful of halo-halo, the International Rotaractors discovered not only the richness of Filipino culture but also the universal bonds that connect us all. As glasses were raised at the end of the day, one sentiment lingered in the air: this was more than a trip—it was the beginning of something extraordinary.
With plenty more adventures, laughs, and memories waiting to be made, the Rotaract Philippine Roundtrip promises to be an unforgettable journey—not just across the Philippines, but into the heart of camaraderie and cultural exchange.
