Lions Club Int’l launches community outreach programs

By Jason B. Neola

DAET, Camarines Norte --- The newly elected president of the Daet 103 Service Lions Club, Dr. Eric Pabico, announced a series of comprehensive community outreach programs during his inaugural speech.

Lions Club International, a global non-government organization founded during World War II by American insurance manager Melvin Jones, continues to promote its mission of service through initiatives that benefit local communities.

Dr. Pabico, DMD who has been a member of the Lions Club since 2005, is no stranger to public service. As a long-time member of the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), he has also spearheaded projects to help children with cleft lip and palate in partnership with the PDA and the Philippine College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

“The Pabico family has been involved in public service for generations. Our ancestors have donated land for public schools, and my siblings, cousins, and I are dedicated to continuing this legacy of giving back to the community,” said Dr. Pabico. “Through our work with Lions Club International, we are simply paying forward the blessings we have received.”

Dr. Pabico outlined the club’s key projects for the year and beyond, which include diabetes support programs for inmates and Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), and providing nutritional and emotional support for children with pediatric cancer.

The “Sight for Kids” program, a school-based program aimed at addressing optical and vision needs of visually-impaired students will also be rolled out.

Environmental initiatives are at the heart of their outreach efforts, with plans to implement mangrove planting and participate in international coastal clean-ups in collaboration with local government units, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and other partners.

The clean-up drive will target coastal areas from Bagasbas and Mercedes to Vinzons, and is scheduled for September this year.

Other programs include dental health education in schools, feeding programs for abandoned children, medical and dental missions, book donations, and youth leadership development initiatives. A Christmas gift-giving event is also part of their calendar, with activities set to commence this September.

The Daet 103 Service Lions Club, in collaboration with various local and international partners, aims to make a lasting impact on the health, education, and environment of Camarines Norte.

INDUCTION of officers Lions Club International District 301-A2, Region 7 – Zone 1, Daet 103 Service Lions Club President, Dr. Eric V. Pabico (sitting, second from left) with District Governor Sol Wilfredo Flores Jr. (standing, delivering his message).

THE President (standing, wearing a club vest) during the Club’s book donation drive campaign at a public elementary school in the municipality of Daet.