Legacy Across Borders: Ladies of Rizal Switzerland Launches Historic Chapter Honoring José Rizal

March 6, 2026 - Kriens, Switzerland — A historic milestone for the Filipino community in Europe was marked as the newly established Ladies of Rizal Switzerland, the first Swiss-founded affiliate inspired by the ideals of the Knights of Rizal, held its pioneer oath-taking ceremony at the picturesque Schloss Schauensee.

The event gathered Filipino leaders, community members, and distinguished guests to celebrate heritage, leadership, and the enduring legacy of Philippine national hero José Rizal. The ceremony also highlighted the growing role of Filipino cultural organizations abroad in promoting national pride, cultural diplomacy, and community engagement across Europe.

Set against the historic lakeside castle overlooking Lake Lucerne, the ceremony featured the formal induction of the organization’s pioneer officers and members. Guests admired the elegance of traditional Filipiniana attire worn by participants and the unveiling of the organization’s modern logo, symbolizing the blending of heritage and forward-looking vision.

Delivering the keynote address was Michelle Ngo Salangsang, Founder and President of Ladies of Rizal Switzerland. A Manileña born in Manila, Salangsang shared her multicultural heritage, reflecting Chinese ancestry from her father and Cebuana roots from her mother—an upbringing she said instilled in her a deep respect for identity, tradition, and cultural diversity.

Salangsang and her husband moved to Switzerland in 2011, where they have since built their life and family. This year also marked an important personal milestone as they were granted Swiss citizenship, a moment she described as both meaningful and humbling. Despite living abroad, she emphasized that Filipino identity remains deeply rooted in their lives.

“Wherever we go, our Filipino heart remains steadfast,” she said. “We are proud of our soil. Proud of our bloodline. Proud of our story.”

She stressed that the establishment of Ladies of Rizal Switzerland represents more than a ceremonial organization, but a commitment to carry forward the ideals of Rizal in modern society.

Rizal, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Philippine history, inspired national consciousness through his writings, including the landmark novels Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo, which exposed injustices during Spanish colonial rule and awakened a spirit of reform among Filipinos.

Unlike many revolutionaries of his time, Rizal advocated reform through education, truth, and the power of ideas. His intellectual leadership and moral courage ultimately cost him his life when he was executed in 1896 at Bagumbayan (Luneta), an event that helped ignite the Philippine revolution.

“His martyrdom was not simply a moment in history,” Salangsang said. “It was a conscious sacrifice for the dignity and freedom of his people.”

Inspired by Rizal’s vision, the Ladies of Rizal Switzerland aims to promote Filipino culture, language, and heritage among Filipinos living abroad while strengthening connections between the Philippines and the international community.

The organization also plans to support cultural initiatives and highlight the Philippines as a global destination, pointing to iconic locations such as Boracay, the Banaue Rice Terraces, and Palawan as examples of the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

The ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy, Ambassador of the Philippines to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, along with community leaders and members of the Knights of Rizal Lucerne chapter.

Organizers concluded the event by thanking sponsors and supporters who helped make the historic gathering possible. For many attendees, the evening symbolized more than the launch of a new organization—it represented the continuing global influence of Rizal’s ideals and the enduring pride of Filipinos wherever they may be in the world.