In a stirring and wide-ranging address during the installation of a new club chapter in Milan, the National President (NP) of a prominent Filipino organization, referred to as the “Eagles,” delivered a powerful message centered on organizational unity, the perils of self-interest, and the core mission of humanitarian service.
The speech, given by NP Ronald F. Delos Santos, oscillated between a celebratory welcome and a firm rebuttal against a splinter group, outlining a clear path forward for the organization’s members across Europe.
Addressing the “Legitimacy” Question Head-On
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to a simmering internal conflict. NP Delos Santos directly confronted members who had broken away from the main organization, labeling them as “expelled” individuals who had “appointed themselves” as leaders.
“The question is, why did they leave? This is the truth. Because we can only hear their side,” he stated, framing the dispute as a battle between legitimacy derived from election versus self-appointment.
“We won as elected. During the election, we won as elected National President, as elected Vice President. They were appointed. They appointed themselves. Right? So, who is stronger? The appointed or the elected? Elected. That is the truth,” Delos Santos declared, drawing a clear line for the membership and reinforcing his administration’s mandate.
A Call for Dialogue and Collective Action
Amidst the firm stance on legitimacy, the National President extended an olive branch, appealing for unity and dialogue to prevent the organization from fracturing further.
“If you have a problem, let’s talk. Let’s talk. Because if we don’t talk, we will be destroyed,” he urged. He emphasized that the organization’s primary purpose is to be a conduit for help, a goal that is impossible to achieve in a state of division. “How can we help each other if we are divided? Right? We need unity here.”
He reaffirmed the organization’s core mission: “Our goal is humanitarian services. Again, we are not here to be beautiful or to be handsome. We are here to help our Filipino needy people.”
Financial Responsibility and Humble Leadership
NP Delos Santos also issued a stern warning against financial irresponsibility within the ranks, particularly discouraging members from taking on leadership roles like “Governor” if they lack the means.
“I discourage our brothers and sisters in the Philippines. If you are receiving the minimum wage… please do not join the government [within the organization],” he said, highlighting that such positions carry heavy financial responsibilities towards beneficiaries. He revealed that some members even borrow money to assume these roles, which he strongly condemned as it becomes a “burden to the organization.”
He shared an anecdote from Monaco, where he observed billionaires dressed modestly, to underscore the value of humility. “The lesson I learned there? That is humility. Whatever you have achieved in your life, don’t be afraid… We won’t be able to carry it when we die.”
Expansion and Solidarity in Europe
The Milan event was part of a broader European tour for the leadership. Delos Santos mentioned recent installations in Geneva and France, with a scheduled visit to Rome following the Milan gathering. This indicates a strategic effort to consolidate and expand the organization’s presence across the continent.
He also highlighted the organization’s work in providing aid during calamities in the Philippines, specifically mentioning efforts in Cebu, Davao, and “Lindon,” showcasing their active role in supporting fellow Filipinos both overseas and in their home country.
Confidence Amidst Growth
Despite the internal challenges, the National President expressed strong confidence in the organization’s growth and unique identity. He claimed that even established international groups like the Rotarians and Lions Club are “jealous of us.”
“But they are jealous of us. Why? Because they are helping each other… But our heart for helping each other is true, right?” he said, positioning the Eagles as a more genuine and heart-driven alternative for Filipinos seeking to make a difference.
The speech concluded with congratulations to the new members, welcoming them to what he called “the fastest growing organization” both in the Philippines and the world, marking the Milan installation as a step forward in their “new journey” of service and unity.#
