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.

- Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter

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 (FIISoC), 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.