Festive RC Makati party celebrates ‘Paskong Pinoy 2023’

President Bing Matoto’s Christmas message emphasized not only celebrating the most joyful time of the year but also the remarkable impact made by RC Makati throughout the year, showcasing a commitment to service beyond the holiday season

Photographs courtesy of Richard Manilag for RC Makati In a festive mood during the RC Makati's Paskong Pilipino were Rotary Anns who emerged victorious in the Rotary Maka-Trivia game. Posing for the camera are (from left) Dir. Neil Makasiar, Dellie Yap, Jojo Borromeo, Brin Panlilio, Camille Makasiar, Caling Young, president Bing Matoto, Adette Uy, Menchu Pascual, Cecille Dayrit, Mita Soliven, Chinit Rufino and Yvonne Kuan.

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17 Dec 2023, 16:20

RC Makati, in the spirit of the Filipino tradition of "Paskong Pinoy," hosted a spectacular Christmas celebration at the Manila Polo Club last 8 December 2023.

The event, organized by Dir. Neil and Camille Makasiar, transformed the MPC's McKinley Room into a vibrant Filipino fiesta that captivated the hearts of members and guests alike.

The evening began with a holy Mass led by Fr. Jonathan Bitoy, coinciding with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Street-style busking by members of the Rotaract Club of Makati set the tone during cocktails, setting the stage for a night filled with Filipino culture and festivities.

The formal program, skillfully guided by Andy Manalac, included a heartwarming prayer by PP JunJun Dayrit and scintillating performances by the Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe and the LPU Vocal Harmonics.

President Bing Matoto's Christmas message emphasized not only the celebration of the most joyful time of the year but also the remarkable impact RC Makati had made throughout the year, showcasing a commitment to service beyond the holiday season.

The night featured a special musical performance by the Hsu family, showcasing the talents of William Hsu on the violin and accompanied by Chi-Ying Hun on the piano.

The RC Makati Christmas party at the Manila Polo Club last 8 December, dubbed 'Paskong Pilipino' saw past district governor Pepz Bengzon and Mita Soliven voted Mr. Rotary of the Night and Ms. Rotary Ann for the Night,, respectively. In photo are (from left) RC Makati president Bing Matoto, Mita Soliven, PDG Pepz Bengzon, Philip Soliven, and Camille and director Neil Makasiar.

Spotlight on Cesar Campos

The spotlight was then focused on Rotarian Cesar Campos, recognizing the past president as a dedicated member of Club for over four decades, underscoring his enduring commitment to RC Makati initiatives.

Cluster achievements during the Rotary year's first half were acknowledged, with Cluster 1 and Cluster 2 earning top honors in attendance. Recruitment efforts were also recognized, with Cluster 1 securing the top spot.

A surprise performance by Ariel Rivera added a touch of glamor to the evening, serenading the audience with soulful ballads.

The celebration continued with a Rotarian Maka-Trivia Night, won by the enthusiastic team of Jojo Borromeo, Cecille Dayrit, Yvonne Kuan, Brin Panlilio, Menchu Pascual, Chinit Rufino, Mita Soliven, Addete Uy, Dellie Yap and Caling Young.

Individual recognition went to Paolo Turno, awarded Most Active Baby Rotarian and Boy Arteche, honored as the Most Active Rotarian.

Prestigious titles

The prestigious titles of Mr. and Ms. Rotary were bestowed upon PDG Pepz Bengzon and Mita Soliven.

The festivities reached its peak with a raffle draw, where lucky winners walked away with such prizes as a Peace and Chaos painting, 50" LED TVs, among several fabulous others.

Keeping the dance floor alive with singing, dancing and music was the Midlife Crisis band.

RC Makati expressed gratitude to Dir. Neil and Camille Makasiar, PP JunJun & Cecille Dayrit, and generous donors for organizing a memorable celebration.

As echoes of joyous merrymaking lingered through the night, RC Makati members were one in looking forward to continuing its journey of service, unity and joy in the days ahead of the Rotary year.

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