The recent Lions International District 301 MD Convention in Clark, Pampanga, was a landmark event for Lions across the Philippines. It brought together members from various clubs and districts to network and vote for leaders for Lion Year (LY) 2025-2026.
The convention served as the platform to elect District Governors, First Vice Governors, and Second Vice Governors, whose leadership will guide the organization’s activities and service projects for the coming year. Current officers at all levels will conclude their terms at the end of June.
Having joined Lions in 2020, I have attended four consecutive district conventions: Iloilo in 2022, Cebu in 2023, Baguio in 2024, and now Clark in 2025. Each convention showcased the diversity and unity of Lions nationwide.
This year’s election for District 301-A2 demonstrated strong unity and trust. Lion Apolinar “Pol” U. Cortez was unanimously elected District Governor, Lion Imelda “Mhel” Pechera as First Vice District Governor, and Lion Juliet Nacita as Second Vice District Governor. Lion Juliet ran unopposed, reflecting the confidence she has earned. This smooth election contrasts with the more competitive 2022 Iloilo convention, where current District Governor Leo Lion Sol Wilfredo Flores won a spirited race for Second Vice District Governor.
I was pleased to witness the confirmation of Lion Ralph Yambao from District 301-C as First Vice District Governor, accompanied by my ELLI batchmate Pres Steff of the BFF (Baguio Family and Friends) Lions Club, our cherished twin club. It was also heartening to see Lion Richard Ng elected First Vice District Governor of District 301-B2, representing Mandaue Lions Club. Lion Richard played a key role in our club’s twinning with the Bohol Chocolate Hills Lions Club. Four years ago, he graciously yielded his seat at a Manila Hotel event, enabling us to forge a strong friendship between our clubs.
The convention also allowed me to reconnect with friends from other clubs, including Bacolod City Host Lions Club. Past President Jang Yap’s vibrant presence brought much joy. We had a brief meeting with President-elect Lion Jade Distrito and introduced her to our President-elect Lion Estella Serapon.
Additionally, I met PDG Lion Ramon Manojo and his wife Lady Sony, Past Council Chair Lion Em Ang, and my fellow LCC alumni PDG Manuel Piamonte, who is also my brother John’s classmate. I also encountered Lion Tito “Fael” Lopez, a friend of PDG Araceli Eckert from Occidental Negros LC, one of the oldest outside of Manila.
The event was a reunion with our other twin clubs, including La Union United Lions Club’s Pres Mark Ryan Flores and his wife, as well as delegates from Bohol Chocolate Hills Lions Club.
District conventions are more than formal gatherings; they are vibrant forums for sharing best practices, recognizing outstanding service, and inspiring members to deepen their commitment to humanitarian work. As the new leadership prepares to take charge, there is a strong sense of optimism and readiness among members.
In conclusion, the District 301 MD Convention in Clark, Pampanga, was a resounding success—a time for celebration, reflection, and preparation for the challenges and opportunities of Lion Year 2025-2026. ||
