EVANSTON, Ill. (Feb 12, 2023) — Rotary International announced Manila, Philippines as the winner of the provisional bid to hold its annual international convention, 3-8 June 2028, which is set to be the largest and most multi-cultural gathering ever hosted in the country.
More than 25,000 Rotary members and participants from around the world are expected to gather in Manila to connect, learn from each other and various experts, and share ideas for bringing positive, lasting change to communities around the world. The annual Rotary convention is held in different cities around the world, and Rotary’s 119th convention is the first to be held in Manila.
“Manila’s diverse and lively culture reflects the global mosaic of our organization, making it the ideal city for our members and participants to connect and celebrate our friendships, cultures, and the kaleidoscope of experience we bring to improving lives and strengthening communities around the world,” said Rotary International President Jennifer Jones.
“We are delighted and honored to receive the Rotary International’s vote of confidence to host its 119th convention, and we share with the Tourism Promotions Board the excitement of welcoming Rotary’s roster of distinguished members from around the world,” said Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
“It gives us much pleasure and honor to receive Rotary International’s vote of confidence. We are known for our legendary hospitality and take pride in the Filipino brand of service. Our expertise in the field, our facilities, complemented by our natural wonders, rich culture, and heritage, make the Philippines a fitting destination for this event. Rest assured of the Philippine government’s commitment to delivering a most pleasant RI Convention experience in 2028,” said Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
Secretary Frasco assured that “guests will be welcomed with the legendary Filipino hospitality, treated with service excellence, and delighted by our award-winning beach, nature, and heritage destinations, making for a memorable immersive experience rich in the diversity of Filipino culture. She said the Philippines prides itself in being Asia’s pioneer in hosting large-scale meetings and conventions. Under the Marcos administration, we are setting our sights on reclaiming our primary position as one of Asia’s most preferred destinations for international meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE),” she added.
The winning bid was led by Rotary regional leader, Past District Governor Samuel D. Pagdilao, Jr. and supported by Rotary clubs in the Philippines. Various public agencies including the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, and other MICE industry stakeholders also contributed to the successful bid.
“I commend the team led by Past Governor Pagdilao for meticulously putting up a bid, showing our readiness and fitness to host an RI Convention thus secure the win. I thank Rotary International for its decision which recognizes Manila’s distinct place in Rotary history being the gateway of Rotary into Asia with its first club chartered here 119 years
ago. We will endeavor to make the RI convention in 2028 a memorable and meaningful experience to all attending Rotary delegates and guests,” assured Past RI Director Rafael M. Garcia III.
Rotary members throughout the world develop and implement sustainable, community-driven projects that fight disease, promote peace, provide clean water, support education, save mothers and children, grow local economies and protect the environment. Over US$5.5 billion has been awarded through The Rotary Foundation to support these programs worldwide.
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