For the first time, Philippine Rotary clubs have joined hands to organize an authentic Oktoberfest celebration — for a good cause, of course.

"Why did we do this? As Rotarians, we prioritize fellowship, we prioritize service, and this project is dedicated to our 'End Polio' program. We want to support this program of the Rotary Foundation," Rotary Governor Johnny Yu told Daily Tribune.

Yu said more than 400 clubs will take part in this effort — "a first for the Rotary districts to have this kind of Oktoberfest," he said.

"We're looking at a P1-million fund for the End Polio program. The Philippines started the End Polio program way back in the 1970s. It was adopted by the Rotary International to be a worldwide campaign," he added. "As of today, we only have two countries left with polio cases — Afghanistan and Pakistan. Our polio eradication now is at almost 98 percent already. We're looking at a zero-polio world by 2025."

This, indeed, is worth shouting, "Prost!" for, as many will undoubtedly raise their glasses on 13 October at The Tent at Solaire Hotel & Resort.

Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is one of the most celebrated festivals around the world, with its roots tracing back into the 19th century.

On its 187th year, people will come together to experience German culture, and various groups hosting it outside Germany, Rotary Clubs included.

The Rotary PREPR (Philippine Rotary in Emergency Preparedness and Response) and the revered German Club in cooperation with Intercountry Committee Germany-Philippines and Rotary Clubs from three districts (3810, 3820 and 3830) will hold its own authentic Rotary Oktoberfest in cooperation with the German Club, as a fundraiser for the Rotary Stop Polio Campaign and the foundation's future projects.

"It is our first fund-raising project (in efforts to) end polio, and the money generated from this project will help sustain more of PREPRs disaster aid projects, like that of efforts to help victims of the recent super typhoon 'Karding,' and more," PREPR president Jules Chanco said.

Experience authentic German beer, Bavarian treats, and listen to the sounds of Oktoberfest with the help of the Sound Express Munich, a 12-piece band coming straight from Germany.

Those who wish to come may reserve their tickets at eventscircle.shop/home. Ticket prices range from P4,500 to P8,000. For more information, follow Rotary Oktoberfest 2022 on Facebook.

With reports from Dinah S. Ventura