Rotary Club of Forbes Park Leads End Polio Campaign In Boracay With Sunset Walk

BORACAY ISLAND, Malay, Aklan — The Rotary Club of Forbes Park, led by its president, Alexis Zaragoza, spearheaded an End Polio campaign in Boracay Island, bringing together community partners, volunteers, and beneficiaries in a collective effort to raise awareness about the global fight against polio.

Held on October 23, 2026, the campaign featured a Sunset Walk along Boracay’s world-famous White Beach, highlighting the importance of immunization, community participation, and inclusive initiatives in promoting public health.

The Rotary Club of Forbes was joined by homegrown Rotary Club of Boracay with the Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo.

*Boracay was chosen as the venue for the activity because of its distinction as one of the Philippines’ crown jewels of tourism destinations. Known for its powdery white sand, spectacular sunsets, and international appeal, the island provided a meaningful setting for a campaign that aims to reach people from different communities and backgrounds,’Zaragosa told the Boracay Island News Network.

The walk began at Laketown Boracay at 5 p.m. and proceeded toward Red Coconut via D’Mall, with other partners joining the celebration.

A particularly inspiring part of the activity was the participation of 10 beneficiaries of prostheses, who joined the Sunset Walk in a powerful demonstration of determination, inclusion, and the importance of providing opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in community activities.

Beyond promoting the End Polio advocacy, their participation underscored the value of accessible public spaces and community programs that recognize the abilities and contributions of every individual.

The campaign was part of a broader two-day program on October 23 and 24, organized with partner Rotary clubs and other organizations. Activities included a polio vaccination initiative at the Yapak Rural Health Unit, a peace-building symposium for Boracay frontliners, and community development and environmental activities.
The following day, the program continued with mangrove planting and a coastal clean-up drive, as well as health awareness sessions for Grade 12 students of Manoc-Manoc National High School. Topics included disease prevention, sanitation and hygiene, financial literacy, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Through these activities, the participating organizations sought to connect public health advocacy with environmental stewardship, youth education, and community service.

The End Polio campaign reflects Rotary International’s longstanding commitment to eradicating polio worldwide. By bringing the advocacy to Boracay, the organizers highlighted how a globally recognized tourism destination can also serve as a platform for health awareness, solidarity, and meaningful community engagement.

As the sun set over Boracay’s iconic shoreline, the walk served as a reminder that the fight against polio requires sustained cooperation—and that every step taken toward a healthier world matters.