Iloilo Lions mark 48 years of service at Casa Real

Casa Real de Iloilo took on the warmth and polish of a classic society gathering as members of the Iloilo City Integrated Lions Club, fellow Lions from across District 301-B1 and longtime friends gathered to celebrate the club’s 48th Charter Anniversary and 48th Induction Ceremony.

The heritage venue provided an elegant setting for an evening centered on service, leadership and fellowship, bringing together civic leaders, professionals and advocates bound by the Lions tradition of community work.

At the heart of the celebration was a leadership transition for the 2026-2027 term, with Joey G. Balauitan assuming the club presidency and Aldwin Kent G. Barbaton taking the helm of the Leo Club.

Their induction carried more than ceremonial weight.

After 48 years, every new set of officers inherits both an institution and a responsibility: to turn fellowship into programs that respond meaningfully to the needs of the community.

District Governor Atty. Domingo B. Oso Jr. formally inducted the incoming officers and served as the evening’s honored guest speaker, placing the milestone within the broader work of Lions Clubs International District 301-B1.

His presence also underscored the strong network connecting Iloilo’s Lions with clubs and leaders throughout the region.

The gathering drew familiar figures from the Lions community, including Past Vice District Governor Louis John Ng and past district governors Eden Tan, Monet Manojo, Demer Ruiz, Jason Tan, Pons Yuson, Tony Balluga and Boy Deocampo.

Past presidents Bernadette C. Rosales, Noel Guillergan, Vicky Bayani-Sian, Joy Yuson and Chat Abello were also among those who joined the occasion, giving the evening the feel of both a leadership ceremony and a reunion of people who have helped shape the club across generations.

Beyond the formalities, Casa Real became a room of easy conversation and renewed connections.

President Balauitan was joined by Winnie, while guests including John Baquiran, Louie Abello, Nini Gonzalez, Ranel Flores, Fritz Yranila, Francis Hinayhinay, Dearly Lopera and Dave Garin added to the convivial mix.

Also seen at the gathering were Dr. Mark Oliver Mansueto, Dr. Leah Salazar, Vivian Yranila, Seb and Maridan Sollesta, Dian Obligacion, Lorelin Puda, Dr. Mariee Jean Flores, Nerissa Besol, Trina Beerda, Helen Mendoza and Susan Sollesta.

The dinner-dance atmosphere kept the evening relaxed and sociable without losing sight of the organization’s purpose.

For nearly five decades, the Iloilo City Integrated Lions Club has carried its service beyond meeting halls and social gatherings, translating fellowship into civic engagement and community initiatives.

That continuity defined the 48th anniversary celebration.

New leaders stepped forward, veteran Lions stood beside them, and another chapter opened with the same principle that has sustained the club for 48 years: leadership matters most when it serves beyond itself.