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A resolution has been filed in the House of Representatives in a bid to have the Rotary International Board rescind its decision to cancel the much-awaited Rotary International Convention in Manila, Philippines in 2028.

Through House Resolution (HR) No. 1826, Baguio City lone district Rep. Mark Go, Bagong Henerasyon (BH) Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera, and Occidental Mindoro lone district Rep. Leody Tarriela are urging the lower chamber to support the Rotary Clubs of the Philippines in their demand to take back the “unfair” decision.

The resolution states that the Rotary International Convention is a global gathering that embodies the spirit of service, fellowship, and innovation.

The event is seen as a venue “where people of action from around the world come together to brainstorm solutions to pressing challenges and celebrate collective works of service".

With this in mind, the convention’s 2028 edition in Manila would have provided a “monumental occasion” for the country.

The resolution's authors said this would bring numerous benefits such as a boost in tourism and economy, the strengthening international relationships, promotion of the Philippines on a global stage, and inspiring local Rotarians.

In February 2023, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) announced that the Philippines won the provisional bid to host the 2028 Rotary International Convention.

This was described as “a moment of immense pride and excitement for Filipino Rotarians and the nation as a whole” in HR No. 1826.

As funding and logistical preparations for the event were starting to get momentum, President Marcos even welcomed Rotary International President-elect Stephanie Urchick to Malacañang Palace in October 2023.

Moving forward to February 2024, House Speaker Martin Romualdez personally handed a copy of HR No. 1607 to outgoing Rotary International President Gordon McInally. Under this resolution, the House of Representatives expressed its full support for the 2028 event in Manila.

However, on June 28, 2024, just two days before his term ended, Melnally formally informed the Manila Host Organizing Committee (HOC) of the Rotary International Board's decision to cancel the convention due to fiscal concerns, HOC non-compliance, and governance issues in Philippine districts.

The Manila organizing committee promptly protested these reasons, and instead highlighted the thorough financial planning, consistent guidance from Rotary International's senior leader overseeing convention planning, and strong support and collaboration among all 10 districts in the Philippines.

This protest was ultimately for naught as the decision to cancel the event was later reaffirmed and deemed final. The organization, however, said future hosting proposals could be considered if the aforementioned issues were resolved.

“The unfair and unsubstantiated decision, made without due process, to cancel the convention has caused profound disappointment and outrage among Filipino Rotarians and the nation, given the significant efforts and resources invested in preparing for this event,” HR No. 1826 read.

“Rotary's core values of service, fellowship, diversity, and integrity demand a fair and thorough investigation into the allegations against the HOC and due process in the decision-making process,” it added.

The resolution noted that, ironically, the decision did not reflect the Rotary Four-Way Test, which embodies truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit to all concerned.

“Considering the profound impact of the cancellation of the Rotary International Convention in Manila 2028 on Philippine Rotary Clubs and the country, the Rotary International Board must rescind its decision and proceed with holding the Convention in Manila in 2028,” it concluded.