Ladies of Rizal Switzerland Inducts New Honorary Members in Landmark Manila Ceremony

MANILA, Philippines — July 26, 2026 — The Ladies of Rizal Switzerland welcomed two distinguished women leaders as Honorary Members during a historic induction ceremony held at the International Headquarters of the Knights of Rizal in Manila.

Lady Atty. Jewel Bulos and Lady Lenie Pantoja were formally inducted in the presence of prominent dignitaries and senior officers of the Order, led by Supreme Commander Sir Emmanuel Calairo.

The ceremony highlighted the continuing partnership between the Knights of Rizal and the Ladies of Rizal Switzerland, as both organizations work to preserve and promote the principles, writings, and humanitarian vision of Philippine national hero Dr. José P. Rizal.

For Rizalian organizations based in Europe, the occasion carried particular significance. Rizal spent important years across the continent, where he studied, wrote, built intellectual friendships, and developed many of the ideas that later shaped his advocacy for education, dignity, peaceful reform, and national identity.

Representing the Ladies of Rizal Switzerland, Founder and President Lady Michelle Ngo Salangsang described the induction as both an organizational milestone and a public affirmation of unity between the two institutions.

She emphasized that the ceremony recognized not only the achievements of the two inductees but also the increasingly important role of women in advancing Rizal’s ideals through education, public service, cultural diplomacy, charitable work, and community leadership.

Lady Michelle also expressed the organization’s gratitude to Supreme Commander Sir Emmanuel Calairo and the officers of the Knights of Rizal International Headquarters for their confidence, encouragement, and continued support.

According to the organization, the recognition of women as active partners in the global Rizalian movement creates greater opportunities for collaboration between communities in the Philippines, Switzerland, and the wider European region.

Two Women Recognized for Leadership and Service

Lady Atty. Jewel Bulos serves as Vice President for Administration at the University of Makati. She was also elected twice as President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Manila Chapter, reflecting her strong record of leadership in law, education, administration, and public service.

Lady Lenie Pantoja serves as a consultant to E. Zobel Inc. and the Office of the Mayor of Bataan. Her professional and civic work demonstrates a commitment to responsible leadership, institutional development, and service to local communities.

Their induction recognizes their integrity, accomplishments, and dedication to values closely associated with Dr. Rizal, including intellectual excellence, patriotism, compassion, courage, and service to others.

As Honorary Members, Lady Atty. Jewel Bulos and Lady Lenie Pantoja will serve as ambassadors of Rizalism and partners in initiatives promoting Filipino heritage, cultural education, humanitarian service, and international understanding.

Rizal’s Enduring Connection to Europe

The Ladies of Rizal Switzerland continues to promote Rizal’s legacy within Europe, where the national hero spent significant periods of his life.

Rizal lived, studied, travelled, and worked in several European cities, including Madrid, Paris, Berlin, Brussels, London, and Heidelberg. His European experiences broadened his intellectual perspective and helped shape his commitment to reform, education, and human dignity.

For Filipino communities in Europe, his story remains a powerful link between Philippine history and European intellectual life.

The Ladies of Rizal Switzerland seeks to strengthen this connection through cultural programs, educational activities, charitable initiatives, and partnerships with Rizalian groups and institutions around the world.

The Manila induction therefore represented more than the addition of two Honorary Members. It also served as a symbol of growing cooperation between Europe-based Filipino organizations and their counterparts in the Philippines.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to remain a loyal and dependable affiliate of the Knights of Rizal and to work closely with the Order in keeping Rizal’s message relevant to present and future generations.

The ceremony concluded with the guiding principle:

“Unus Instar Omnium” — One for All.

Lady Michelle Ngo Salangsang closed her address with the motto of the Ladies of Rizal Switzerland:

“One Spirit. One Service. One Ladies of Rizal Switzerland.”