I WAS invited for the launch of Rotary Club of Baguio South’s “Beyond The Ordinary” project simultaneous with the recognition rites for their first honoree.
At first, I was clueless as to what it was. Somehow reluctant, I said yes. The Rotary Club of Baguio South (RCBS) invitation’s key takeaway was for us to witness something beyond the ordinary and to be inspired as well as spread inspiration. Not knowing what to expect, I never thought I’d be inspired and in a way, open my eyes.
In general and in today’s social media generation where every occasion and eventualities are posted and gauged, we rather attend the more popular functions and happenings for all its status-defining objective. However, does it even convey a deeper meaning? Beyond The Ordinary changed that perception.
Held at the Capital Hall of Capital Building of C & Triple A’s Mr Alex and Ms Zon Aquino (who likewise served as major sponsors), I witnessed ‘service’ in a multi-dimensional sense. “It’s a form of giving back through a proper program for a recognition sans the political undertone and self-serving agenda for any unsung hero who gives back to the community without expectations other than their sense of fulfillment,” said the Project Chairman, RCBS’s Omeng Fallarme.
First honoree the RCBS recognized is Marites Castro, a masseuse plying her trade here in Baguio for 17 years already. Despite the lack of resources, she helps send indigent children to school without expecting anything in return except for the kids to do well in school. Initially titled “Extraordinary Heroes”, Marites Castro indeed manifests such distinction and honor. Delivering her acceptance speech, Ms Castro said that she never thought she’d be recognized and honored for something she thought was just a sense of personal commitment for a self-fulfilling deed to help. Ms Castro was bestowed with a trophy, a certificate and cash prize if only to somehow be some means for RCBS to likewise extend their appreciation for people like her who manifest the same motto as that of the Rotary’s “Service Above Self.”
The club is hoping to continue with this project through the help of potential sponsors so as to spread inspiration as much as inspire others. “It will also be of considerable importance if it will be acknowledged and backed by the local government”, added Fallarme. The event was attended by Baguio’s First Lady Ms Arlene Magalong as Guest of Honor.