As I step down and pass the leadership baton to President Lion Estrella Serapon MJF, I do so not by shedding a burden but by embracing a greater role—as guardian of our club’s proud legacy and its promising future. It is my duty to ensure that what we have achieved will be preserved and surpassed by the next generation of Lions.
I do not boast of achievements, but if there is a Lion who led a club while on wheelchair and crutches, I salute you. Though I could not run during my term due to an operated foot, by God’s grace, I am now walking unaided.
From the start, limited mobility challenged me, yet I was never alone. Our club pillars—Cab Sec Eloisa Olivera, Charter President Celia Rasing, Region Chair Dr. Santos Castillo, and Past President Dr. Janet De Guzman—were always a call away, supporting and organizing projects. Treasurer Lion Nilda Alipasa and Secretary Lion Jerome Alipasa ensured timely reporting, documenting hundreds of service activities for Lion Year 2024-2025.
Special thanks to now President Estrella Serapon, whose support extended to my wife, China, aiding our quarterly feeding program at Soldiers Hills Elementary School.
To my beloved wife, DLC China Marie Deferia, thank you. Despite her own demanding roles, she led impactful activities like the coastal cleanup supported by former Senator Cynthia Villar, who generously provided resources and crucial conservation lectures.
To my Lion family—my son Osmund and his wife Erika, who chauffeured me, and our quick response team Lion Hezel Seville, Lion Nicole Pulido, Leo LJ Deferia—I am deeply grateful for your support in troubleshooting and documenting our activities.
Thanks to Lion Mary Castillo, Lion Dr. Nes Sauco, Lion Dennis Rasing, Lion Cynthia Alba, Lion Tita Chit, and others whose ongoing participation strengthened our club. FVP Lion Eve Camilon and Lion Rey Camilon, your perseverance despite challenges is truly appreciated.
Our gratitude goes to Governor Sol Flores, who, early in his term, challenged me through Cab Sec Eloisa to organize a service in Molino 6, Bacoor. That challenge pushed me to walk 250 meters after months—painful but invaluable. True service requires stepping beyond comfort zones; if you’re not challenged, you are not fully committed.
To our soul twin club, BAGUIO FAMILY AND FRIENDS Lions Club, led by President Steff and FVDG Ralph, thank you for the memorable joint service in Zambales with the Aeta community. Your dynamic leadership inspires me deeply.
To La Union United Lions Club, led by IPP and Zone Chair Ryan Flores and Lion Nardia, thank you for joining us as a new twin club and enthusiastically supporting ASMEPP’s DOST Starbooks Library outreach, even joining missions in Isabela and Quirino. May this collaboration thrive under Pres. Rea Joy Laconsay.
Our friends from the Bohol Chocolate Hills Lions Club, though I was absent, showed unwavering camaraderie by inviting us to anniversaries. Friendship transcends club lines. Special thanks to Pres. Lion Ethel of Bohol Prestige Lions Club for continuing this bond.
Bacolod City Host Lions Club stands out for their generosity and hospitality during twinning activities. Pres Lion Jade Distrito, we promise to return and support your marker project—“Itaga mo sa bato.”
A highlight of this year: twinning with Mu Gung Hwa Lions Club of Korea. Our visit strengthened ties with Immediate Past President Eo and family, Past Presidents, and members. We anticipate many joint service activities ahead—though hopefully no more carrying heavy charcoal bricks!
I could continue thanking every individual and recount every achievement, but time is limited. Humbly, as ASMEPPS president, I embody our theme: crossing Land, Seas, and Air. From Cavite to Luzon, Visayas, and Korea, “Ang Leong Gala” has journeyed far to serve. ||
