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Our History

History of the Rotary Club of Hiyas ng Bacoor

The typical Filipina woman of the past was known for her simplicity and being a homebody. Her days were mostly consumed with household chores. However, the modern Filipina has evolved into a more dynamic and effective individual. She now balances home, outings, religious commitments, and civic involvement.

This is where the women of the Rotary Club of Hiyas ng Bacoor belong—women of strong determination, action, intelligence, and service. The club owes its existence to the Creator, the Almighty God, and Lord Jesus. The members believe the club was formed in response to God’s call: “Whom shall I send?” And they silently answered, “Here I am, Lord.”

Founding of the Club

On September 10, 2000, President Oscar Garcia of the Rotary Club of Bacoor proposed forming a new club within their jurisdiction. He appointed Rotarian Sony Buhat as chairman and Luping Sapanghila as DCSR, both supporting the organization of the new club.

Oscar Garcia’s wife, Ann Tess Garcia, reached out to her circle of friends. Four responded enthusiastically:

  • Ann Celia Buhat
  • Ann Grace Navarette
  • Ann Tess Castillo
  • Ann Glo Lorrejos

Through these ladies’ efforts, more members joined. Several meetings were held at the Rotary Center of RC Cavite East, attended by PDG Charoy Marquez, DAD Danny Reboya, DGSR Luping Sapanghila, President Oscar Garcia, and other Rotarians. The Rotary Club of Hiyas ng Bacoor was officially chartered on May 9, 2001, with Charter President Celia Buhat.

Presidential Legacy by 

Rotary Year

2002-2003

Loving President Sallie Lacson

Energetic leadership, numerous projects, Paul Harris Fellow.

2003-2004

Star President Flora Diaz

Focused on children’s welfare, visited sister club in South Korea, became a Paul Harris Fellow.

2004-2005

 Centennial President Grace Navarrete

Led the Prosthesis Project with RC Pohang Il-wool (South Korea), Paul Harris Fellow.

2005-2006

101 President Imelda Bernardo

Led medical/dental missions, accomplished many projects, Paul Harris Fellow.

2006-2007

Leader President Helen Masangya

Implemented numerous service projects; became an Outstanding Leader President and Paul Harris Fellow.

2007-2008

Sharing President Leonora Lapiña

Continued Prosthesis Project, visited sister club in South Korea, Paul Harris Fellow.

2008-2009

Legacy President Vilma Rico

Lived the theme “Make Dreams Real,” supported by past presidents as mentors.

2009-2010

Visionary President Olivia Aliscad

Embraced theme “The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands,” multiple awards from the district.

2010-2011

Global President Aurora Macavinta

Signed sisterhood agreement in Jeonju Keelin, South Korea; Outstanding President and Paul Harris Fellow.

2011-2012

Change Maker President Leonida Magbag

Advocated service for the less fortunate, Paul Harris Fellow, and Most Outstanding Club President.

2012-2013

Peace Builder President Jenia Clarin

Promoted peace through action and service; recognized as an Outstanding Club President.

2013-2014

First Class President Erlinda “Babes” Catre

Focused on service to the less fortunate; awarded as one of the Most Outstanding Presidents.

2014-2015

Best Class President Angelina Lim

Embraced theme “Light Up Rotary”; honored as one of the Most Outstanding Presidents.

2015-2016

World Class President Jeanine Policarpio

Young and energetic; theme “Be a Gift to the World,” Paul Harris Fellow, and Outstanding President.

2016-2017

All Star President Josefina “Jojo” Jarcia

Carried on legacy with theme “Rotary Serving Humanity,” recognized among Most Outstanding Presidents.

2017-2018

Great President Shirley Alcantara

Energetic and committed; multiple Paul Harris Society member; club gained District recognition.

2018-2019

Inspiring President Loida Dumali

Dynamic leadership; highest Rotary Foundation contribution; Major Donor Level 1; Most Outstanding President.

2019-2020

Champion President Josefina Garces Bauer

Retired nurse from Australia; two global grants for water stations; Most Outstanding President, Platinum Category.

2020-2021

Transformational President Editha Umali

Navigated pandemic challenges; earned title “Superwoman of Solid Cavite”; Major Donor Level 1.

2021-2022

Life Changing President Carmelita F. Gawaran

Dynamic and generous; Most Outstanding President, Platinum Level; Paul Harris Fellow.