A renewed spirit of service and cultural pride filled the halls of the Philippine Consulate General in Al Qusais, Dubai, as Las Damas de Rizal Dubai & Northern Emirates held its official Oath-Taking Ceremony on May 21, 2025.
The event, which began at 5 PM, marked the formal induction of the organization’s new officers and members, reaffirming their commitment to uphold the values and teachings of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. It opened with a ceremonial parade featuring members of both Las Damas de Rizal and the Knights of Rizal, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
Leading the event was Lady Ma Luisa Azizah Ditchon Zekaj, President of Las Damas de Rizal Dubai & Northern Emirates, who welcomed attendees with a heartfelt message reinforcing the group’s dedication to cultural advocacy and community service.
His Excellency Marford Angeles, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, also addressed the gathering, expressing support for the organization’s mission in promoting patriotism and unity among Filipinos in the UAE.
Inspirational words were shared by Lady Dr. Daffodils Guevarra, member of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai & Northern Emirates chapter, and Lady Mechelle Gegalao, Vice President of the Las Damas de Rizal Abu Dhabi Chapter.
The ceremonial highlight was the formal Oath of Membership and Oath of Office, officiated by Lady Dr. Aileen Villanueva, President of the Las Damas de Rizal Abu Dhabi Founding Chapter in the Middle East and African Region. Her leadership and long-standing commitment to Filipino cultural causes lent gravitas to the proceedings.
The event concluded with reflections from Josie Conlu, recognized as a Community Champion for her continued involvement in Filipino initiatives in Dubai, and Lady Marybeth Dumilag, Vice President of the Las Damas de Rizal Dubai & Northern Emirates, who thanked attendees and reaffirmed the chapter’s goals moving forward.
The presence of Sir Dr. Ruben Ningasca, Chapter Commander of the Knights of Rizal Emarat Dubai Chapter, underscored the joint commitment of both organizations in spreading the ideals of Rizal and celebrating the strength of the Filipino community abroad.
