With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, the Assistant Governor and District Team Training Seminar (AG-DTTS) of Rotary International District 3810 unfolded in full force on March 8, 2025, at the Golden Phoenix Hotel in Pasay City. Spearheaded by District Governor-Elect Mary Mei V. Rodrigo and hosted by the Rotary Club of Hiyas ng Bacoor, this flagship training event served as a vital formation and fellowship platform for the incoming Assistant Governors (AGs) and District Team members for Rotary Year 2025–2026.

The AG-DTTS is a cornerstone training activity within the Philippine Rotary calendar, designed to equip the District’s appointed leaders with the practical tools, strategic insights, and collaborative mindset needed to execute their roles with clarity and confidence. Serving as the key bridge between club leadership and the District Governor, the Assistant Governor plays a pivotal role in ensuring that each club thrives and aligns with the overall goals of the district. The District Team, composed of heads of various key areas, provides the backbone of support, resources, and coordination necessary to amplify Rotary’s mission of service above self.

Opening with Purpose: A Transition of Trust
The day began with a vibrant energy as participants filled the ballroom — many meeting their fellow team members for the first time in person. District Governor Joaquin “Jackie” Rodriguez opened the proceedings, lauding the commitment of the incoming officers and setting a positive tone for the day’s program. In a solemn but hopeful transition, DG Jackie formally turned over the floor to District Governor-Elect Mary Mei Rodrigo, symbolizing not only a change in leadership but a continuation of vision, values, and service.

The roll call of district team members, conducted by Incoming District Executive Secretary Eric Candidato, further emphasized the diverse and dynamic leadership now poised to serve across Manila, Pasay, Cavite, and Occidental Mindoro.

“Unite for Good”: A Rallying Call for the Year Ahead
DGE Mary Mei Rodrigo’s keynote message was one of clarity, conviction, and camaraderie. “Today is more than just training — it’s about understanding your value to the clubs you’ll serve, embracing collaboration, and living the theme ‘UNITE for Good,’” she declared. “Our strength lies in our unity — not just in systems and strategies, but in spirit, service, and support.”

Her message resonated throughout the day, as participants immersed themselves in a curated program of learning sessions, designed to be both pragmatic and inspiring.

Training with Excellence: Learning the Rotary Way
Guided by the expert oversight of Past District Governor Karen Tamayo, a distinguished lineup of facilitators led a series of dynamic modules. Topics covered included:

• The Role of the Assistant Governor: Functions, Expectations, and Strategic Engagement
• Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution
• Supporting Club Excellence: Membership, Service Projects, and Rotary Foundation Initiatives
• District Protocols, Reporting Tools, and Calendar Alignment
• Leading with Empathy: Values-Driven Leadership in Rotary

The sessions combined practical instruction with interactive segments that allowed for open dialogue, problem-solving, and experience sharing. Many AGs and district officers praised the relevance of the content, citing new insights that would help them better connect with club presidents and energize their respective zones or committees.

Fellowship and Symbolism: Ending the Day with Heart
As the sun set over Pasay, the program gave way to moments of gratitude and bonding. In a closing ceremony filled with warmth, each participant received a certificate of completion — affirming not only their presence but their readiness to lead. As a heartfelt gesture, DGE Mary Mei gifted each attendee a soft, smiling teddy bear — a simple but endearing symbol of care, encouragement, and the supportive embrace of the Rotary family.

Laughter and photos filled the room as officers from different areas and backgrounds found common ground and shared purpose. What began as a training seminar evolved into a shared experience of renewal and fellowship.

A Launchpad for Leadership
The March 8 AG-DTTS was a resounding success — not merely as a training event, but as a vital starting point for District 3810’s collective journey toward Rotary Year 2025–2026. With their responsibilities clarified, their connections strengthened, and their commitment reaffirmed, the Assistant Governors and District Team members left the Golden Phoenix Hotel ready to serve, lead, and unite for good.

In the words of one participant, “This wasn’t just training. It was a reminder of why we lead, who we serve, and how much more we can achieve when we work together.” Indeed, with hearts aligned and hands joined, District 3810 is poised for a Rotary year defined not just by action — but by united purpose.