The Induction Ceremony for Bacolod City Host Lions Club, originally scheduled for November 7, was set to be a significant event for Cavite ASMEPPS, their twin club, marking their continued commitment to sisterhood and camaraderie within the Lions Club network. However, the arrival of Typhoon Tino brought devastation to Negros Occidental, forcing the cancellation of the ceremony and leaving many communities in urgent need of support. Rather than retreat or postpone their plans, Cavite ASMEPPS, under the steadfast leadership of President Estrella Serapon, saw an opportunity to turn adversity into action.
Instead of simply cancelling their trip, Cavite ASMEPPS coordinated with President Jade Distrito, Past President Jang Yap, and PDG Ramon Manojo to transform their journey into a meaningful service mission. Recognizing the urgent needs of the affected communities, they decided to proceed with their travel, shifting their focus from ceremonial attendance to hands-on relief and support for the people of Negros.
Joined by key figures from District 301-A2, including Cabinet Secretary Eloisa Olivera, Deputy Cabinet Treasurer Celia Rasing, and District Leo Chairperson China Marie Deferia, the group demonstrated the true spirit of Lions service. Dr. Janet De Guzman, District Chair for Dental, and Dr. Ness Sauco also joined, with officers such as Ln Evelyn Camilon, Ln Mark Cagalitan, and Ln Osmund Deferia, along with Leo President Nathalie Olivera Samanniego and Leo Denizelle Ann Rasing, further strengthened the team’s resolve and capacity to help.
Upon arrival, the group was meet at the airport by officers and members of Bacolod City Host LC and immediately oriented them on local situation and relief pressing needs. Their efforts ranged from distributing food packs and essential supplies to assisting in the restoration of basic services for affected families.
The transformation of the trip from a ceremonial event to a service mission highlighted the adaptability and resilience of Cavite ASMEPPS and their twin club Bacolod City Host who ushered them to a barangay in Banago on their first day. It is a coastal area where houses were washed out during the typhoon.
On their second day, they travelled as far as Himamaylan to distribute mineral waters, a necessity they badly needed, and other essential goods. My son Osmund, also born in Bacolod, was amazed how organized the club of Bacolod City Host from sourcing supplies to logistics.
By choosing to act in the face of adversity, they not only provided immediate relief but also inspired hope and solidarity among the Negrenses. Also they were able to visit the foundation for children with special needs run for years now by Bacolod City Hosts.
This experience also reinforced the importance of collaboration and leadership in times of crisis. The seamless coordination among district leaders, officers, and volunteers ensured that resources were efficiently deployed and that the needs of the community were met with compassion and urgency. The journey became more than just a trip; it became a testament to the power of service, unity, and the unwavering commitment of Bacolod City Host and Cavite ASMEPPS Lions Club to uplift others, even in the most challenging circumstances.
During this visit, the Lions from Cavite also donated to their Lion Marker in Don Salvador Benedicto, coming from Cavite ASMEPPS 103-A Lions Club, the Association of Science and Math Educators of Public and Private Schools (the association whose revenue from its competition registration partly goes to civic organizations) and from DLC China Marie Deferia and yours truly.
In the end, the cancellation of the Induction Ceremony did not diminish the impact of Cavite ASMEPPS’s presence in Negros. Instead, it amplified their mission, proving that true leadership is not measured by titles or ceremonies, but by the willingness to serve when it matters most. ||
