The Rotary Clubs based in Bohol join a virtual District Assembly (DISTAS) using a virtual video platform.

The virtual DISTAS was held on June 12 to 13, 2020.

The DISTAS was supposed to be held in Hennan Resort in Panglao, last May 22-23, 2020 but was cancelled due to the Covid pandemic, assistant governor for Bohol area Romeo Balaba said.

Panglao Mayor Leonila Montero was chosen as convention chair. The convention of Rotarians was expected to draw 900 participants.

Balaba said the theme for the incoming Rotary Year is Rotary Opens Opportunities.

Six (6) Rotary Clubs based in Bohol join the virtual DISTAS.

The Rotary Clubs in Bohol joining the virtual DISTAS are Rotary Club of Panglao headed by Julita Cogo, Rotary Club of Ubay with president Florencio Reyes, Rotary Club of Tagbilaran, helmed by Alex Nale Bongawan, Rotary Club of Upper Tagbilaran with president Rochelyn Taer Fuentes, Rotary Club of Central Jagna with president Jose Maputo, and Rotary Club of Tubigon with president Haydee Cabasan.

The 49th DISTAS and District Training Assembly was done via Zoom webinar.

Rotary International President-elect Holger Knaak joined the virtual DISTAS.

Moreover, Rotary International District 3860 District Governor Rodel Rizel Reyes was also in the virtual DISTAS.

The theme for the DISTAS is “Building a Strong Voice and Visual Identity in Times of Pandemic.”

The DISTAS also discussed the programs to “End Polio” as well as the “End Polio” fund raising and awareness campaign.

According to the program of the DISTAS, various resource speakers were invited to discuss the “End Polio” program.

The closing plenary featured the introduction of District Governor Nominee Anna Louisa Bumugat, Angel Jong Fernando Moderator, and a message of thanks by the District Governor Reyes.

Balaba revealed to the Bohol Tribune that he was appointed as assistant governor last January 25, 2020.

As assistant governor, Balaba is the connection between the clubs and the district. The relationships the assistant governor builds with club leaders make Rotary stronger.

Balaba said an assistant governor’s task is to, visit the clubs regularly: meet with each club at least once a quarter either in person, by phone, or by web conference.

The assistant governor is also tasked to listen to clubs enables in a discussion of their concerns and needs, and provide information, resources, and advice that will allow the clubs to be more successful.

Another task of an assistant governor is promotion of the best practices recommended in be a Vibrant Club: Your Club Leadership Plan. In turn, help club leaders implement those practices.