The celebration did not begin with a program or a speech. It began with muddy shoes, tired hands, and a quiet understanding that this anniversary needed to mean something.
On October 6, 2025, the Rotaract Club of Uptown Cubao chose to celebrate its 5th Charter Anniversary by leading a tree-planting activity at the La Mesa Watershed Reservation. Instead of focusing on how far the club has come, members focused on what they could still give back. The watershed, a lifeline for millions of Metro Manila residents, became the setting for a simple yet deeply meaningful act of service.
The activity was led by Past President Ian Tomaquin and UG President Enzo Abatayo, alongside club members who arrived early and worked side by side throughout the day. They were joined by the Rotary Club of Uptown Cubao and the Uptown Cubao Community Corps, showing strong intergenerational and community support for environmental stewardship. For many, this was not just another project on the calendar. It was a reminder of why they joined Rotaract in the first place—to serve, to connect, and to leave something good behind.
As the activity progressed, support came from Lawin Volunteers and the Pasig Bagwis Soaring Eagles Club, who joined the effort and strengthened the sense of community on the ground. Conversations flowed easily between digging holes and carrying seedlings, and strangers quickly became teammates. There was laughter, shared effort, and moments of quiet reflection as each tree was placed into the soil.
By the end of the day, 100 trees stood newly planted across the area. Each one represented more than environmental action. They represented five years of shared experiences, challenges overcome, friendships built, and a commitment that continues to grow.
The tree-planting activity became more than a way to mark an anniversary. It became a symbol of the club’s journey and its direction moving forward. As the Rotaract Club of Uptown Cubao looks ahead, these trees remain as living proof that service does not have to be grand to be powerful. Sometimes, it simply starts with showing up, getting your hands dirty, and choosing to care.
