BORACAY, Philippines – In a powerful display of community service and international fellowship, the Rotary Club of Upper Eastside Antipolo (RCUESA), under the dynamic leadership of President Victoria “Vcky” Solis, recently converged on the world-renowned island of Boracay for a multi-faceted event supporting Rotary International’s global End Polio Countdown to History Campaign.
The multi-day initiative, held from October 19-22, 2025, blended advocacy, environmentalism, humanitarian aid, and literary arts to create a profound impact, demonstrating Rotary’s commitment to serving humanity.
“Our mission in Boracay was to amplify the message that we are on the cusp of eradicating polio forever,” said President Vcky Solis. “By combining this critical advocacy with hands-on service projects, we showed that every action, in every community, brings us closer to a polio-free world.”
The event featured a series of carefully planned activities:
Sailing for a Cause: A Visual Pledge to End Polio
The campaign kicked off with a vibrant Paraw Sailing event. The iconic Philippine sailboats, adorned with Rotary and End Polio banners, created a striking visual against the Boracay horizon, symbolizing the club’s forward-moving commitment to seeing the countdown through to its final, historic day. The campaign was in collaboration with Rotary Club of San Juan (D3800), Rotary Club of Rizal Premier (D3800) and Makati East (D3830).
A Unified Stand for a Cleaner Environment
RCUESA led a significant Beach Clean-Up Drive along Boracay’s shores. The activity saw strong participation from key partners from the Local Government Unit (LGU), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP) and employees of Discovery Boracay highlighting a powerful public-private partnership for environmental stewardship. Joining us also are fellow Rotarians from Rotary Club of Makati East, PN Miguelito Maravilla and IPP Iyen Magallanes of RC East Rizal.
Empowering the Ati Community with WASH
A cornerstone of the event was an Outreach Program for the Aeta Community (Ati Village). Rotarians conducted an informative orientation on the importance of Rotary’s WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) project, emphasizing how clean water and proper hygiene prevent the spread of diseases. The session was followed by the distribution of essential sanitation materials, providing tangible support to improve community health.
A Story for Change: Comic Book Launch
Aligning with the WASH advocacy, RCUESA launched a compelling comic book entitled, “Si Anina at ang Lihim ng Tubig-Bukal”, written by Rotarian Jomel Aramil. The launch, which took place within the Ati community, used engaging storytelling and art to teach children and families about the value of clean water and proper sanitation, making the principles of WASH accessible and memorable.
Forging Stronger Ties: Sister Club Signing
Marking a significant step for Rotary fellowship and collaboration, RCUESA formalized a Sister Club Agreement with the Rotary Club of Boracay Island (District 3850), led by President Immanuel “Nolly” Sodusta. The signing ceremony was a platform for sharing best practices, successful project models, and strengthening the bond between the clubs to expand their service reach in the Philippines.
The success of the Boracay event was bolstered by the guidance and support of Past District 3800 Governor Ronald “Pope” Solis and RCUESA’s Chartered President, Dennis Uy, whose presence underscored the event’s importance within the wider Rotary family.
Through this comprehensive series of events, the Rotary Club of Upper Eastside Antipolo (RCUESA) not only advanced the global fight to end polio but also left a lasting, positive imprint on the local community of Boracay, proving that true service knows no boundaries.
