On September 2, 1979, a distinguished gathering was led by JCI Senator Amelito R. Mutuc — who served as Philippine Ambassador to Washington during the term of Philippine President Diosado P. Macapagal — to formally organize the Manila Jaycees Senate. 

A week later, on September 10th — which would come to be known as the “September Affair” — the members of JCI Senate Manila gathered at the Alabang home of then-Manila Mayor Ramon D. Bagatsing for its first elections. With over 100 JCI Senators from Metro Manila and the provinces in attendance, Mayor Bagatsing was elected JCI Senate Manila’s first president.

The earliest objective for this nascent organization was to foster camaraderie between the JCI Senators. The General Membership Meetings and regular golf tournaments gave the Senators a chance to form friendships, as well as gain insiders’ insight into businesses in different industries. 

Beginning in the mid-80s, however, the Senate became more heavily involved in community development. The breakfast “Kapihan” forum allowed Senators to have no-holds-barred conversations on civic issues with public sector officials. The Senate also started playing a more active role in charity and disaster relief projects for the less fortunate.  

Yet in spite of all the community involvement, it’s not all work and no play for the Senators. The ever popular Mid-Autumn Festival Dice Game, regular golf tournaments, and membership meetings all continue to give the Senators a chance to unwind and nurture the sense of brotherhood that is at the core of JCI Senate Manila.