THE Rotary Club of San Fernando (Pampanga), hailed as the first ever Rotary club in the province, on Wednesday celebrated its 69th Charter Anniversary at Fortune Seafood Restaurant in Jose Abad Santos Avenue.
Over a hundred members who were joined by their spouses, as well as past presidents and district governors were in attendance during the gathering, highlighted by the recognition of leaders who gave years of invaluable support to the club.
“It has been our tradition to honor and extend gratitude to our past presidents, the pillars of our club, each time we mark another year. They are the ones who inspire us to continue serving and upholding the virtues of the Rotary,” President Diosdado Mallari shared.
He then led the awarding of plaques of appreciation to past presidents who are still active to this day, including Conrado “Boy” Pacla (10 years), Manuel “Manoy” Kehyeng (30 years), and Conrado “CG” Garcia who has been an active member for the last 50 years.
The 83-year-old Garcia, in his message to fellow Rotarians, noted that his utmost passion to serve the community drives him to further participate in the club’s efforts, projects, and programs.
“Being a Rotarian is a lifelong commitment and a fulfillment. That is why I am encouraging fellow members to dedicate themselves fully to each and every cause of the club. Attend meetings, participate during activities, and live a life according to our code of conduct, because that’s the only way we can call ourselves a true Rotarian,” he said.
Aside from the recognition, another way the club paid tribute to its past presidents was the banging of bell, a new tradition which will now be part of each year’s anniversary celebration.
“This is our way of giving salute to our past presidents and their great contribution to the Rotary movement. It is only fit that we allot a portion of our time to give them due respect as we acknowledge their good deeds and selfless service,” Past President Engr. Fer Caylao explained.
Moreover, two Rotarians namely Nestor Velasquez and Gil Kristian David, were inducted during the formal ceremony, which then evolved to a night of fun and fellowship.
The Rotary Club of San Fernando was chartered on November 5, 1949. Its first charter president was Andy Guanzon, the PNB branch manager of San Fernando, Pampanga at that time. He served as the club president from 1949 to 1951.
Some of the first charter members were Jose Ricafort, Francico Ramos, Francisco Flores, Romeo Gonzales, Justino David, Gerry Rodriguez, Conrado Del Rosario, Augusto Hizon, Carlos Sandico, Joaquin Infante, and Vicente Chincuanco, all of whom became club presidents.
To date, the Rotary Club of San Fernando has more than 60 members and continues to grow with the infusion of young and idealistic professionals and businessmen in its membership.