13/04/2026
🌸 A New Chapter Blossoms: Las Damas de Rizal Expands to Milan — In a vibrant display of cultural pride and sisterhood, the Las Damas de Rizal International officially expanded its global footprint with the Chartering and Oath-Taking of the Las Damas de Rizal Milan Chapter on April 11, 2026. Held at Norma’s Restaurant, the event marked a historic milestone for the organization as it continues to propagate the ideals of the Philippine national hero, Dr. José Rizal, across Europe.
The solemn proceedings commenced with an invocation by Lady Mercedita de Guzman, the newly inducted Secretary, followed by the proud echoing of the Philippine and Italian National Anthems.
The event was graced by the organization's Grand Executive Council, highlighting the significance of this new inception. Lady Lina Brosas, Grand Matriarch and Founder, as well as Premier of LDR Paris, delivered the Welcome Address and presided over the official Chartering and the symbolic Oath of Membership and Candle Lighting.
A highlight of the evening was the formal installation of the Founding Officers, the visionary women tasked with shaping the future of the Milan Chapter. Leading the new administration is Premier Lady Jannette Cruz, whose leadership was solidified along with her fellow Founding Officers as follows:
• Premier: Lady Jannette Cruz
• Vice Premier: Lady Florita de Jesus
• Secretary: Lady Mercedita de Guzman
• Assistant Secretary: Lady Maria Merced Silang
• Treasurer: Lady Rosalie Fernandez
• Assistant Treasurer: Lady Chrisanta Paala
• Auditor: Lady Marife Dolor
• PROs: Lady Consolation Manalo and Lady Belinda Santos
Demonstrating the strong bond within the Rizalian family, members of the Knights of Rizal were also present to witness the ceremony. Their attendance provided a strong pillar of support, highlighting the collaborative effort between the two organizations to uphold the values of patriotism and civic virtue within the Filipino community in Milan.
The ceremony was further enriched by a series of powerful messages. Lady Mary Ann Ballesteros Coleman, Grand Chancellor and European Adviser, led the Pledge and shared an inspirational address, emphasizing the chapter's role in the "growing family" of the order. Lady Estrelleta Ruppert, Deputy Grand Chancellor and Regional Premier for Europe, and Lady Mary Ann Abarintos, Area Premier for Italy, also offered words of guidance and encouragement to the new members.
In her closing remarks, Premier Lady Jannette Cruz expressed her commitment to the LDR mission, promising to lead the chapter with integrity and a focus on community service and cultural preservation.
The evening concluded on a high emotional note with the singing of "Bayan Ko" and the LDR Hymn, leaving the attendees with a renewed sense of purpose. As the Milan Chapter takes its first steps, it joins a global network of empowered women dedicated to the Rizalian spirit of Virtus et Honos (Virtue and Honor).
With the establishment of this new chapter, the legacy of Dr. José Rizal continues to bloom, bridging the distance between the Philippines and the world through the hearts of its people.
