Club History
Forty years ago a group of strong-hearted and civic minded Las Piñeros with integrity and character met together kindled by the same vision and dream, to share a part of themselves, their talent, time and resources in the spirit of service to their fast growing community of Las Piñas. These men led by Mr. Anastacio “Tacing” Francisco decided to organize themselves and with the sponsorship of the Obando Lions Club, the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club was born. Lion Tacing Francisco became its first president from 1958-1961.
Only two years after its organization, the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club grew so fast and so strong it developed the capability to sponsor the chartering of another Lions Club, the Pasay Mabuhay Lions Club.
In 1961 to 1963, Lion Enrique “Iking” Lim became president. He later became Lion District Governor in 1967-1968 and was elected as Lion International Director in 1982-1983. In 1962-1964, Lion Amado Samson became president. Lion Manuel Trinidad succeeded him in 1964-1966.
Like any growing organization, the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club was not exempt from experiencing growing pains but the members remained steadfast to their commitment to SERVE. The Lions kept going with the following men leading the pack; Lion Pedro Suante (1966-68); Lion Henry Tong (1968-69); and Lion Maximo Tan (1969-71).
During the years that followed, the club went through turbulent and adverse circumstances. Despite all these, Lion Rosalino “Ising” Riguera (1971-72) kept the club united. As president, he initiated the construction of the first clubhouse and focused on manpower skills training program, medical mission to the needy, and gift giving/donations to victims of natural calamities. He strengthened the bond of fellowship among the club members.
From 1972 to 1974, Lion President Nanding Francisco kept the club actively participating in community projects. He strengthened the manpower skills training program and responded to the training needs of the youth of Las Piñas. Furthermore, he strengthened the club’s twinning program with Hongkong and Singapore and actively attended the OSEAL forum.
In the years that followed, new faces, new leaders joined the Lions Club. Lady Lions were also invited and their charm and graceful presence added energy and vigor to the club.
In 1982-1983, the election for the Charter Governor was held at Olongapo City. Twenty-one Lions Club comprised the newly formed District 301-A2. With th eunited and sincere support of the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club led by Lion Filemon Aguilar, Lion Tony Tamayo won the elections for Charter Governor of District 301-A2.
During his incumbency, Charter District Governor Lion Tony Tamayo adopted the International Theme: “Share the Vision of Service. The program objectives were to expand our vision for sight services, offer youth a share of the vision and keep them by sharing the vision.
In 1984-1985, Las Piñas had a new face-lift. Through the efforts of Lion President Manny B. Villar, the town became greener, cleaner and fresher looking with the massive tree planting and greening program initiated by the club.
During the LY 1989-1990, Lion President Ben Riguera had a waiting shed constructed in front of the Las Piñas Municipal Hall. In LY 1992-1993, Lion President Jorge Lopez donated two deep wells for the students of the Las Piñas Community High School.
In 1989, the Lioness Club of Las Piñas elected Chuchi Riguerra as their First President. Lioness Chuchi served as President for three consecutive years. The Lioness Club continuously supported all the LPHLC programs, projects and activities.
On the 36th year (LY 1994-1995), Lion President Chris Rodriguez initiated the construction of the Lions Clubhouse. Lion PP Nanding Francisco donated the lot and on the 37th year (LY 1995-1996) under the leadership of Lion President Rene Carandang, the clubhouse was built and inaugurated in four months. During LY 1995-1996 Lion President Rene Carandang received the Excellence Award from the International Lions Club. He likewise received the 100% Attendance Award.
From 1996 to 1998 during the incumbency of Lion Presidents Tony Sison and Manny Magpantay all efforts were focused on the completion, improvement and furnishing of the clubhouse. During Lion Year 1996-1997, Lion President Tony Sison initiated the Scholarship Program.
All these years Lion presidents of the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club have been elected annually with each president bringing to the club his own brand of leadership. Lately the youth were also invited to form the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ Leo Club. With every Lion member contributing his own talent and sharing something of himself, the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club has matured and grown stronger with its force, richer in human resources and deeper in its commitment to SERVE the community. Its roar has grown louder, and the Las Piñas (Host) Lions Club hopes to continue with its dream and vision to be of service to the city of Las Piñas.