In the spirit of Rotary International's commitment to fostering global connections, the Rotary Club of Makati recently strengthened ties with the Rotary Club of Taoyuan in Taiwan.

As a testament to the close ties between the two clubs, RC Makati sent a fairly large delegation led by Club president, Bing Matoto along with Dir. Johnny Ang, PN Eddie Galvez, Past president Louie Aseoche, Derrick Tan and spouse Jane, Paolo Turno, Michael Hsu and Cat Rufino on a memorable journey to Taoyuan from 4 to 7 November.

The main event was celebrating the 62nd Charter Anniversary of RC Taoyuan.

From the moment the RC Makati delegation landed, the warm hospitality of the group's Taiwanese counterparts was evident, with RC Taoyuan past president Fu Kuan-Chiun playing the role of a gracious receptionist.

The red-carpet welcome extended from the airport to the hotel, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Much camaraderie

Evening of 4 November PP Fu Kuan-Chiun and other esteemed past presidents hosted a delightful Chinese dinner, marking the start of the "Taoyuan journey" for the RC Makati delegation. There was much camaraderie between the two clubs, with stories shared and friendships solidified.

Day two in Taoyuan was highlighted by a sumptuous lunch at the Monarch Hotel, courtesy again of PP Fu Kuan-Chiun and his wife, Stephanie. The hotel also hosted a photo exhibit of captivating images captured by Rotarians from RC Taoyuan.

Festivities continued with a lively welcome dinner at the Monarch Hotel on the evening of 5 November. The night was full of cheerful exchanges, pleasantries and entertainment featuring karaoke performances by officers and members of both clubs.

Exchange of gifts

An exchange of gifts was the highlight of the evening, with RC Taoyuan president Chou Chin-Fu receiving RC Makati's 55th coffee table book and a US$1,000 donation for his Club's humanitarian projects.

The climax of the visit to Taoyuan occurred on 6 November  with the RC Makati delegation starting the day exploring the iconic Grand Palace Hotel in Taipei, a testament to Taiwan's rich history.

RC Taoyuan's 62nd Charter Anniversary celebration took place at the Royal Wedding Banquet Plaza, with RC Makati Matoto expressing gratitude for RC Taoyuan's unwavering support for RC Makati's various humanitarian projects.

In his speech, president Matoto highlighted the significant contributions of RC Taoyuan to projects such as the GK Villa Paraiso housing initiative, a feeding program for malnourished children, scholarships for hearing-impaired students, and the provision of medicines for tuberculosis.