The bayanihan spirit was much alive before and during the event. Changemaker President Edd Santillan, Director Ricky Navarro and Club Secretary Minda Santillan supervised and helped on the cleaning up of the venue and its surroundings, with the active participation of RCCSSR officers. They spruced up the seemingly abandoned area with lively colorful decoration using simple and inexpensive materials such as plastic bags, straw and crepe paper. The floor was scrubbed clean of its accumulated dirt and mud while the graffiti filled walls were covered with manila paper and curtains. A tent with some chairs and tables by the entrance created a fiesta atmosphere. The food preparation started very early in the morning at CP Danny Abinoja’s residence with the help of some RCAL members and Interactors. There was also a brief breakfast meeting and fellowship with Director Alfred Ong from RCAL sister club RC Sta. Ana of California, USA.

AG Mar Castillo, in his brief remarks, welcomed the guests while Pres. Edd delivered his Christmas message and handed a plaque of appreciation to the HSAC head. Director Alfred Ong and RCC Pres. Edwin Santos also delivered their messages of gratitude. The majority of SSRA community residents, young and old alike, attended the event. There were parlor games played led by Dir. Shirley Bulaquia who also gave gifts to the present Rotaractors and Interactors. The RCC officers with their kids performed very lively dance performances Pres. Edd personally donated cash gifts for the presenters. Dir. Sim Dayrit and Club Sec. Minda Santillan served as the emcees. The thundering laughter and applauses only indicates that everyone was having a lot of fun.

Colorful bags filled with noche buena goodies were donated and distributed by HSAC assisted by RCALIANS. Packed foods, drinks and bottled water donated by RCAL were also distributed while AG Tom Syquia personally led the giving out of his donated toys, shoes and sandals to the children. The orderly and systematic distribution was made possible through the issuance of stubs. Lady Daisy Flora distributed umbrellas to guests, RCC officers and RCALIANS. Everyone went home with smiles on their faces and joy in their heart.

After the program, the guests were toured to the place where the RCC members reside to get a better appreciation of their daily struggles. Yet, they do not lose hope and able to maintain a positive outlook in life because of the LOVE they receive from organizations like Rotary and Hisfaco.