Las Damas de Rizal

Abu Dhabi Chapter

The Las Damas de Rizal is a civic, cultural, non-sectarian, non-partisan and non-racial.

It is a patriotic organization recognized by law as an instrumentality by which the teachings of Dr. Jose Rizal may be propagated to others who may believe in his teachings to the end that they may emulate and follow his examples.

Members of the Las Damas de Rizal embrace genuine interest in recognition of Rizalian objectives as a legal entity with a mission for the propagation of the philosophies of Jose Rizal.

The Organization has been expanding with no boundaries of nationalities. Initiated by a Filipina, Lina Brosas while living in Paris, France, has been inspired by the teachings and lived with examples of Rizal. The growth of this women’s organization brought with it a myriad of members from all walks of life.

Las Damas de Rizal

Abu Dhabi Chapter

The founding of Las Damas de Rizal Abu Dhabi Chapter on August 13, 2023, by 13 remarkable women is a historic milestone that marks the pioneering establishment of this group in the Middle East and African region (MEAR).

100+

Abu Dhabi Chapter Members

2+

Abu Dhabi Chapter, Years since founded

14+

Las Damas de Rizal Chapters

7+

Countries

Mission & Vision

Mission

To inculcate and propagate the teachings of our national hero not only to the Filipinos but to foreign nationals as well, to promote the spirit of Rizalian virtues, patriotism and internationalism and engaged in educational, social and cultural endeavors.

Vision

An organization dedicated to the propagation of Rizalian thoughts, ideas and works to the end that peoples regardless of race, creed and religion may emulate Rizal’s examples for the benefit of humankind.

Highlights

Events Highlights
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Community Service Highlights

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Community Services Highlights

International Chapters

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LAS DAMAS de RIZAL CREED

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By: Lady Mechelle Puno Gegalao We, the Ladies of Rizal,In homage to our National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal,Uphold the values of…

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Lady Imelda A. Alvero
Public Relation Officer

A licensed Electrical Engineer recognized by Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC)
and Certified Safety Engineer possessing certified training qualifications from reputable
organizations such as ADNOC, NEBOSH, and OSHAD.

Experienced in construction site management, planning, and maintenance in the
electrical industry.

A founding member and officer of The Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the
Philippines, Inc. (IIEE), Abu Dhabi Chapter. IIEE is the organization of electrical
practitioners and the only accredited professional organization (APO) of electrical
practitioners by the (PRC). She devotedly serve the organization since its inception in
2016.

The IIEE charged her to represent to a consortium of Filipino organizations known to be
hard-working and skilled professionals, the Pilipino Professional Organization (PPO) in
the United Arab Emirates. Its goal is to be more assertive, become globally competent
and aspire to build successful professionals in a competitive world. She have had the
opportunity to work with remarkable people who have inspired her to pursue leadership
roles and shaped her career. In 2021 she served as President of IIEE Abu Dhabi chapter.

Passion served as her driving force beyond volunteering, she also serve as the Public
Relation Officer (PRO) of Las Damas de Rizal, Abu Dhabi chapter as founding member.
Furthermore, she enthusiastically joined the UAE's Volunteers Community Platform.

As a professional, Imelda is passionate, dedicated and assertive. She is also familyoriented. She admire people with passion and commitment and determination to succeed, people with genuine concern for others.

Lady Veronica Vergara Ramos
Treasurer

Veronica Vergara Ramos is a dynamic entrepreneur and a prominent figure in the Filipino community in Abu Dhabi. As the owner of Queen Saba, a business, she has made a significant mark in the local market while promoting Filipino “Kakanin” products. Her comprehensive contributions extend beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, positioning her as an influential leader in community service and advocacy.

Veronica is deeply committed to community service. She serves as the Treasurer of Las Damas de Rizal, a prominent organization dedicated to promoting the ideals of José Rizal and supporting the Filipino community in the UAE. Her role as treasurer involves overseeing financial matters and ensuring that the organization’s initiatives are sustainable and impactful.

Her commitment to social responsibility is further exemplified by her nomination as a Dakilang Manggagawa ng Pinoy by Pinas Group “Cargo” in Dubai. This prestigious recognition highlights her dedication to labor and community advocacy, showcasing her efforts to enhance the welfare of overseas Filipino workers.

Lady Mechelle Puno Gegalao
Vice President

Ms. Mechelle Puno Gegalao is a seasoned professional with a strong background in computer science and information technology she brings over 17 years of experience to her various roles by working with a British-owned commercial agency in an oil and gas sector in Abu Dhabi, where she honed her marketing and consultancy skills.

Ms. Mechelle proudly holds a master’s degree in computer science, which she attained from AMA Computer College - Makati Campus in 2008. This academic accomplishment followed her earlier achievement of a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from the same prestigious institution in 2004. Complementing her academic credentials, she earned the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification in 2004, laying a solid foundation for her technical expertise.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Ms. Mechelle has actively embraced her role as a community advocate, collaborating with various organizations to make a positive impact. Currently, she holds multiple leadership roles, such as Founding Vice President of Las Damas de Rizal - Abu Dhabi (2023-2025) and Treasurer of both the United Global Filipinos of the 21st Century (2022-2023), PinoyWise International UAE (2023), and Shades of Pink Society (2022-2023). She has been the Secretary of Shootercada Photographer’s Circle for 5 years (2010-2015) and Treasurer (2016-2017), Her involvement is not only limited to leadership; she also promotes health and wellness as a stakeholder with Lifestyle Medicine UAE in 2023.

Community involvement has been a cornerstone of Ms. Mechelle’s journey Since 2010, showcasing a deep commitment to social cause and collective betterment not limited to Filipino Community but also in UAE Government she’s a recent member of We Are Police and Abu Dhabi Volunteers.

Her skills extend beyond the technical realm; she possesses strong organizational and networking capabilities cultivated through her active participation in various organizations since 2009.

Lady Rosalia "Sally" B. Calayag
Assistant Secretary

Married with four children, OFW since 2007 in the UAE

I have been actively involved in various Filipino community organizations in Abu Dhabi.
I had been a truly dedicated member of OFWGME in 2015, OFWGMAC in the year 2020 - 2022, and in the Abu Dhabi Filipino Dance Club (ADFDC) from 2007 to the present where I previously served as the Ballroom Dance Master, Dance Clinic Directress in 2019-2022 and as a Secretary for the year 2023-2024 term.

I am currently holding the position of Assistant Secretary in the Las Damas de Rizal (LDdR) civic organization, UAE Chapter.

"As an OFW in the UAE, I am both happy and grateful for the opportunity to serve the Filipino community. It brings me immense joy to contribute to our shared growth and to help uplift our fellow Kababayans through my involvement in various organizations. Together, we continue to strengthen our bond and support one another, wherever we are in the world."

Lady EMMA WENCESLAO SENTONES
Secretary

A dedicated community leader and advocate for the Filipino diaspora, I have been actively engaged in empowering and uplifting our community since 2012. My various leadership roles and initiatives reflect my commitment to fostering meaningful connections and promoting cultural pride.

Achievements and Leadership Roles:

Dakilang Pinoy Nominee (2022):
Honored with this prestigious nomination, recognizing my contributions to the Filipino community and my unwavering dedication to service and leadership.

Community Leader (2012 - Present):
An advocate for community welfare, I have consistently worked to bring together Filipinos, fostering unity and collaboration while addressing the needs and challenges faced by our community.
Founding Secretary - Las Damas de Rizal, Abu Dhabi
Founding President – The Global Filipino Community and Associates (2023):
Established this organization to provide a platform for Filipinos worldwide, focusing on networking, mutual support, and cultural exchange.

Founding Secretary – United Global Filipinos of the 21st Century:
Played a key role in laying the groundwork for this collective, aimed at empowering the next generation of global Filipinos through leadership development and community engagement.

Auditor – Shades of Pink Society:
Ensuring transparency and accountability within the organization while advocating for women's empowerment and social welfare initiatives.

Bayanihan Council:

Treasurer (2018 - 2019): Managed financial resources effectively to support community projects and initiatives.
Assistant Secretary (2019 - 2020): Assisted in administrative duties, facilitating communication and enhancing organizational efficiency.
President, Vice President, Secretary – OFW Kaibigan Org.:
Co-founded this organization to support overseas Filipino workers, advocating for their rights and providing essential resources. Served in various leadership capacities to ensure effective program delivery.

Member – Abu Dhabi Filipino Dance Club:
Engaged in cultural expression through dance, promoting Filipino heritage and creating a fun, inclusive environment for community members.

Educational Background:

Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Education (1980):
University of the East, Manila
This academic foundation has equipped me with essential management, communication, and office administration skills, which I continue to apply in my community work and leadership roles.

This version provides a comprehensive overview of your leadership and contributions to the Filipino community, highlighting your commitment and the impact of your work.

Lady Dr. Aileen Mariategue-Villanueva
President

Dr. Aileen Mariategue- Villanueva is a distinguished medical professional currently residing in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with over 30 years of experience in the field of medicine. She is a licensed General Practitioner recognized by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) and the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC). Dr. Villanueva has held significant positions in various esteemed medical institutions, including her current role at Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital as General Practitioner since 2020, and previously at New Medical Centre Specialty Hospital and other notable clinics.

Beyond her clinical practice, she is actively involved in community organizations, serving as the Founding President of Las Damas de Rizal Abu Dhabi Chapter, Vice President for External Affairs of the United Global Filipinos of the 21st Century and as Chairman of the Shades of Pink Society (2019-2023), which supports cancer patients.

Dr. Villanueva's contributions to healthcare and her community have earned her numerous accolades, including Top Filipino Healthcare Professionals in the Middle East 2023 and 2024, Asia's Empowered and Dedicated Female Doctor in Health and Wellness award in 2023 of Asias’s Golden Icon Awards, Empowered Global Pinay featured by GMA (2023), recognized as one of the 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf by Illustrado, Dubai UAE (2019), 100 Most Influential Women in the World held in Paris, France (2019) , Awardee for Philippine Pride Outstanding Professional Category by Philippine Business Council Honors (2019) and being named the Healthcare Professional of the Year by The Filipino Times in 2018.

Her commitment to excellence in medicine and community service exemplifies her dedication to improving health and wellness in the UAE and beyond.

Dr. Aileen graduated Doctor of Medicine in 1991 from Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF) and took further studies in Occupational Medicine at the University of the Philippines (UP) School of Public health in 2004.

Lady Nedie B. Toralba
Auditor

Auditor of lady Las Damas De Rizal Abu Dhabi,
As an Auditor is responsible for examining and evaluating the financial records, processes, and operations of an organization to ensure accuracy and efficient financial management.

Reviewing financial statements and documents to verify accuracy .
Conducting audits (internal or external and preparing detailed reports on findings.
Assessing compliance with relevant laws, standards, To act with transparency.