Members of UAE’s Filipino group take oath of office

Ahead of the 127th commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day on June 12 (Thursday), a group of 30 women across the UAE has formally established their organisation that aims to help further promote their nation’s heritage and values, as embodied in the principles and ideals of their national hero, Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal (June 19, 1896-December 30, 1896), whose execution at the Bagumbayan (Luneta Park) in Manila, sparked the revolt against their three-century coloniser, Spain.

The group, whose officers took their oath of office before Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates Marford Angeles recently, is the International Ladies of Rizal (ILOR).

The ILOR membership into the 4,000-strong Filipino Social Club (FIlSoC), recognised by the UAE Government through the Community Development Authority-Dubai and by the Philippine Government, is under process.

Angeles, in his inspirational message, hailed the decision of the ILOR leadership, headed by president Susan Francisco, financial literacy advocate, and vice president Lolie Dequinon, Philippine Business Council-Dubai volunteer, to link up the cultural and charitable organisation, with the FilSoC. Doing so is the “safest means of organising events and activities” that would also propel the ILOR mission and vision.

“We abide by the rules and regulations of the host government. That is basic. You are being selfless. Being able to get involved in worthwhile activities is selflessness, an attribute of Dr. Rizal. Your choice to invest your time and effort for the community which takes a lot of commitment and single-mindedness for the accomplishment of your goals, is being Dr. Rizal. I hope that with your efforts, the ideals of Dr. Jose Rizal will touch other’s lives.” Angeles said.

Early on in his speech, Angeles stressed: “Dr. Jose Rizal has long envisioned a country that is truly united; that has one goal; that has one single vision.”

Towards the end of his speech and encouraging even the mixed-race audience, as within the ILOR DNA is the inclusion of women from other nationalities, Angeles also stated: “As I always say, ‘Let your light so shine before men. It is not peculiarly Christian. If we say we are for the ideals of Dr. Jose Rizal, these ideals should be seen in us. Let us look at ourselves. Am I exemplifying the values of Dr. Jose Rizal? It would be ironic that we say we are for the promotion of his ideals, his principles; but, these are not seen in us and so we must also be first be aware of these.”

In her speech, ILOR’s Francisco enumerated Dr. Rizal’s values, also being espoused by the Knights of Rizal (KOR), the November 16, 1916-founded civic group which the Philippine Government legally acknowledges by way of Republic Act 646.

“In reflecting upon the path ahead, I find enduring inspiration in the life and values of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. His unwavering dedication to education, justice, and national dignity.”

“Dr. Rizal’s life and works embody values that resonate deeply with Christian teachings. Love for others is Rizal’s advocacy for the rights and welfare of Filipinos. It mirrors the biblical commandment to ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’ (Mark 12:31). Pursuit of truth and justice is his commitment to exposing societal injustices. It is reflected in Proverbs 31:8-9: ‘Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves...defend the rights of the poor and needy.’ Sacrifice for the greater good is Rizal’s willingness to face death for his country’s freedom. It resonates from John 15:13: ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Pointing out that servant leadership was exemplified by Jesus Christ, Francisco also said: “While Dr. Jose Rizal did not overtly quote Bible verses, his writings and actions were deeply rooted in Christian values, emphasising love, justice and self-sacrifice. These principles continue to inspire and guide individuals in our times and for future generations. This is why I encourage everyone to internalise and propagate the teachings of our national hero.”

From KOR-Emarat Dubai Chapter acting commander Dr. Ruben Ningasca: “The ILOR is a significant initiative to empower women who take leadership roles through education, volunteerism and cultural programmes. These are essential and transformative for the vision of Dr. Rizal, firmly rooted in freedom, equity, and sustainable national development for the Philippines.”