By Julerose V. Sotomayor
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Under the dazzling glow of stage lights, melodies of hope and resilience will take center stage as the Rotary Club of Kalayaan Cagayan de Oro, the Rotaract Club of Kalayaan Cagayan de Oro, and Theatro Bulawanon present “End Polio Goes Broadway” on October 26, 2024.
This Broadway-themed musical is more than just a night of entertainment it is a call to action. In celebration of World Polio Day on October 24, the production aims to merge the power of performance with the urgency of public health advocacy, reminding audiences that the fight to end polio is not yet over.
Mr. Bernard Castro, President of Rotaract Kalayaan of Cagayan de Oro, speaks during the press conference for “End Polio Goes Broadway” held on October 9, 2025, at the Conference Room, Capitol University Medical Center. (Photo credits: James M. Elaco)
World Polio Day honors Dr. Jonas Salk, the pioneering scientist behind the first effective polio vaccine a breakthrough that has saved millions of lives worldwide. Yet, despite global progress, polio remains endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan, serving as a stark reminder that no child is safe until every child is vaccinated.
“End Polio Goes Broadway” seeks to amplify awareness of Rotary International’s End Polio Now campaign and to promote infant immunization through the universal language of art. The show will feature stirring performances from Theatro Bulawanon, Rotarians, and local artists, capturing themes of resilience, triumph, and compassion the very values that define Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self.”
Ms. Maia Poblete, member of Rotaract Kalayaan of Cagayan de Oro, founder of Theatro Bulawanon, and scriptwriter of “End Polio Now Goes Broadway”, speaks during the press conference held on October 9, 2025, at the Conference Room, Capitol University Medical Center. (Photo credits: James M. Elaco)
Adding prestige to the evening, Past District Governor Gilda “Gigi” Go and Atty. Katrina Mordeno will serve as distinguished guests, lending their voices to inspire action and solidarity in the push toward a polio-free world.
Tickets are priced at ₱250.00 and available at select outlets and through the Rotary Club of Kalayaan Cagayan de Oro’s official Facebook page. All proceeds will go directly to the End Polio Now campaign and local immunization programs in the city. As the curtain rises, End Polio Goes Broadway promises not only a night of music and artistry but also a renewed commitment to a shared global vision a future where every child can live free from the threat of polio.
