Barangay Toastmasters Club, the second-oldest club in the Philippines, celebrated its 64th Charter Anniversary on September 28 at Elgon’s Secret Garden in Bacolod City with the theme “Shine and Shimmer: Legacy of Excellence.”
Nostagia filled the air, with the attendance of current members and past members as well. Notable was the presence of distinguished Toastmaster Libertad “Nena” Nolido, a past president of the club who also happened to be the first lady division governor of Division D (Western Visayas) Toastmasters.
It was an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and reminiscing as the celebrators exchanged stories and experiences and toasted the achievements and contributions of Barangay Toastmasters Club throughout the years. The event was a testament of the club’s enduring legacy in its commitment in developing confidence among individuals through the honing of their leadership and communication skills.
District 75 (Philippines) Director Josef “Jot” Chiongbian and Division D Director Victoria Hariette Banzon shared messages of inspiration. Chiongbian emphasized that “we are not merely participants in the journey of self-improvement, but active agents of change.” Banzon lauded the longevity of the club, as well as its achievements in producing speech champions, and offered the suggestion “to nurture the values of continuous learning and improvement.”
Toastmaster friends from all over District 75 also sent congratulatory messages and greetings. The members were deeply touched and grateful for the tributes.
To honor the club’s legacy, videos presenting the club’s presidents from its inception up to the present were shown. Presented as well was a concise history of the club in pictures and video.
To add further to the festive mood, a surprise dance number was prepared by the BTMC ladies. The gents also gamely joined when invited—a testament to the members’ versatility and playful personalities.
The club also recognized the members who achieved the “Triple Crown” Award (contributed at least 3 educational level achievements) namely TMs Maria Ester Soledad, John Roel Hilario and Ju-im Jimlan.
Barangay Toastmasters Club also achieved the highest honor of being President’s Distinguished Club for 2023-2024, its 17th year to do so. It was also able to excel in membership by garnering the Smedley Award.
The current officers of club are President – Irene “Chenchen” Caduhada, Vice President for Education – Nestor Herpacio, Jr., Vice President for Membership – Belinda Siason Gochuico, Vice President for Public Relations – Pia Despi, Secretary – Maria Ester Soledad, Treasurer – Cheryl Ramos Tortal, and Sgt at Arms – Noel Roy Rapo. They are ably assisted by Past Presidents Ju-Im Jimlan, John Roel Hilario, Karl Laurenz Diamante, and Pio Alessandro Ozoa (also current Area D1 Director).
The anniversary dinner was a delightful affair, providing an opportunity for members and guests to connect and reminisce. Toasts were offered by DTM Nena Nolido, past presidents Mary Aidine Galvan, Nilo delos Santos, and Joel Zamudio. Past member TM Elna Mercado Haar and guest DTM Melinda Sisles did as well.
Another highlight of the event was the blowing of the candles of the 64th Anniversary Cake and the raffling off of wonderful door prizes.
Club president Irene Caduhada expressed pride in the club’s accomplishments and thanked the members for their continued dedication, emphasizing the importance of carrying on the club’s legacy and inspiring future generations of communicators and leaders. She also extended her appreciation of the club’s generous donors.
Barangay Toastmasters Cub provides leadership and communication skills development to the next level. It is a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about personal and professional growth. BTMC’s Facebook Page is Barangay Toastmasters Club and can be reached through mobile number 09255466777.*
