Inner Wheel Clubs of the Philippines, Inc. (IWCPI) celebrated Inner Wheel Day last January 9, 2016 at the Carolina Basa Salazar Center (IWCPI Headquarters). Ako Ay Pilipino National Level Competition, Tunay Na Atin Bazaar and Honoring of Past National Presidents, International Inner Wheel Representatives and National Representatives were the main events during the occasion.
National Representative Margarita “Margie” Ortiz Luis shared IIW President Charlotte de Vos Inner Wheel Day message during the Opening Remarks, followed by the lighting of the Inner Wheel Candle, together with National President Cecille Ferrer.
The Ako Ay Pilipino (I Am A Filipino) Contest is a National Directed Project conceptualized and initiated in the 70’s by Past National President Carolina Basa Salazar to promote nationalism and civic awareness among youth through his/her active participation in the community expressed through Essay Writing Contest and Oral Interview and Examination. The contest is open to graduating public high school students nationwide. Preliminary contests were held in the respective Districts earlier last year. Prize is a 4-year scholarship grant from IWCPI and Inner Wheel Clubs of the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (IWCPFI). This year’s winner is Mr. Deane A. Nepumuceno of Marikina Science High School, sponsored by Inner Wheel Club of Marikina, District 380.
The Tunay Na Atin (Buy Philippine Products) Bazaar, also introduced by Past National President Lily Basa
Salazar, promotes appr
eciation of Philippine-made products.
A tradition during Inner Wheel Day, incumbent National President pays tribute to Past National Presidents, International Inner Wheel Representatives and National Representatives who are considered pillars of the organization. It is a honor that the first and only Filipina International Inner Wheel President Esther Vibal graced the ocassion. President of Council of Past National President Stella Bernabe gave a short message as a response to the tribute.
During the closing ceremonies, Deputy National Representative Amelia “Bibie” Jarin led the members in the Inner Wheel Unity and Peace Prayer followed by the singing of the Unique and United Song, led by IWC Quezon City Past President Emlyn Santos.
