The Order of DeMolay, an international fraternal organization dedicated to teaching young men the principles of good citizenship and leadership, witnessed a momentous occasion as the young members from the Philippines were proudly represented by Honorable Grand Master Raymund Joseph Ian “Raji” O. Mendoza at the opening ceremonies of the international session in Phoenix, Arizona.
Grand Master Raji, adorned with the Grand Master’s jewel, apron, and the traditional term barong, which is the national dress of the Philippines, took his seat alongside high-ranking dignitaries of DeMolay from around the world. The presence of esteemed leaders from Masonic bodies in the United States added to the significance of the event, highlighting the global reach and unity of the organization.
The history of DeMolay in the Philippines is a testament to the organization’s growth and the values it instills in its members. The journey began in 1946 with the institution of Jose Abad Santos Chapter No. 1, marking the first DeMolay Chapter in the Far East. This chapter laid the foundation for what would become a thriving community of young men committed to the principles of leadership, honor, and service.
The recognition of DeMolay’s presence in the Philippines reached a new milestone in 1983 when the International Supreme Council granted the Philippines a Provisional Supreme Council. This was a significant step towards the establishment of an autonomous and independent Supreme Council for the Order of DeMolay in the Republic of the Philippines. Two years later, in 1985, the Supreme Council received its Charter from the International Supreme Council, solidifying its status as the only sovereign Supreme Council outside the United States of America.
The Chartering of the Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay of the Republic of the Philippines, was a historic moment that not only marked the organization’s independence but also its commitment to upholding the values and traditions of DeMolay International. It was a clear indication of the organization’s success in fostering leadership and character development among young men in the Philippines.
As Grand Master Raji represented DeMolay Philippines at the international session, he carried with him the legacy of the organization’s journey in the Philippines and the aspirations of its members. The event in Phoenix, Arizona, was not just a gathering of DeMolay leaders from different parts of the world; it was a celebration of the shared values and the collective commitment to shaping the future through the development of young leaders.
The participation of DeMolay Philippines in the international session is a reflection of the organization’s global impact and its ability to transcend borders. It is a reminder that the principles of leadership, honor, and service are universal and that the young men of DeMolay are the future leaders of the world.
The representation of DeMolay Philippines at the international session in Phoenix, Arizona, was a moment of pride for the organization and its members. It was a testament to the achievements of the Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay of the Republic of the Philippines, and its role in fostering leadership and character development among the youth. As DeMolay continues to grow and evolve, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of preparing young men to become better citizens and leaders in their communities and beyond.
Credits to: DeMolay Philippines FB
Edited by: Bro. John Louie Marfil, Chev., LOH, Filipino DeMolay Singapore DAC #46, PP
