The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Nestor Cuartero
No amount of weather disturbance could stand in the way for Piolo Pascual in support of Ms Rhea Anicoche Tan, newly inducted president of the Rotary Club of Balibago in Angeles, Pampanga for 2025-2026.
The veteran actor provided a high moment at the induction ceremony as he personally lauded Ms Tan for her humanitarian efforts. He also performed a couple of songs to the delight of a surprised audience comprising mainly of Rotary officials and members from in and out of town.
The 16th induction and turn-over ceremony of the club was held at Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort on July 18, one rainy night.
Ms. Rhea, founder and president of Beautederm empire, was ably supported by a strong contingent of her beauty ambassadors, led of course by Mr. Pascual.
Also present were Ejay Falcon, Alma Concepcion, Maricel Morales-Agoncillo, Rochelle Barrameda, Jimwell Stevens, Josh Ford, Kakai Bautista, Kitkat, Gillian Vicencio, Thia Thomalla, Ervic Vijandre, Kimson Tan, Jojo Abellana, Anne Feo, Darla Sauler, Pepita Curtis, DJ JhaiHo.
On hand to lend their support were Ms Rhea’s mother, Pacita Anicoche, and her two children, Adam Kenneth and Audrey Tan.
I asked Ms. Rhea as she approached our table at the Hilton ballroom why she accepted the presidency of the socio-civic group despite her 24/7 busy schedule as a businesswoman. She flashed me a smile as she uttered, “Ewan.” Ms Rhea added as an aside that she caught a fever right after accepting the nomination.
“Anyway, one-year lang naman ito,” she said.
In a speech, she said, “This is a gathering of hearts and minds in service. The significance of the occasion will be determined not by the words and the lovely dresses, but by the fact that the Rotary Club of Balibago is fully prepared for community uplifting efforts. While we are proud of our position, we must use our privilege, voice, and success to benefit others.”
“When you’re granted a seat at the table, let others sit beside you. Advocate for and beside them. Don’t leave anyone out, everyone belongs to everyone.”
Philanthropy, the art of helping others, is not new to Ms. Rhea. Long-time employees swear by her generosity and kindness. On her own, she runs a scholarship program that benefits close to 100 students. She intends to recruit 10 additional scholars from Pampanga.
Ms. Rhea’s presidency is summed by her catchlines, United for Good, Yes to Love and Rise to Glow.