As part of her journey as a candidate for Mrs. Ilocandia 2026–2027, Marisa Ruiz is dedicating her platform to something deeply meaningful: expanding educational access for less fortunate children in the Philippines.
Raised in San Fernando City, La Union, Marisa graduated with honors from Christ The King College and St. Louis College before earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of the East and later specializing in Orthodontics. Throughout her career — from serving as a dentist at the Philippine Navy Dental Dispensary to leading and managing multiple dental practices in the United States — she has always believed that service is the highest form of leadership.
As a healthcare professional, Marisa understands that opportunity begins with access — access to care, access to tools, and access to knowledge.
Today, many children in underserved communities in the Philippines face barriers that go beyond the classroom:
- Limited or no internet connection
- No proper devices for online learning
- Shortage of books and basic school supplies
- Families struggling to provide educational essentials
Through this campaign, Marisa hopes to help provide:
Community internet access support
Basic online learning equipment (tablets & laptops)
Books and educational materials
Backpacks and essential school supplies
Her experience in the dental profession has shown her how preventive care changes outcomes. The same principle applies to education — when we invest early, we change the trajectory of a child’s future.
This campaign proudly represents the Ilocano spirit of unity and service across the provinces represented by the U.S. Ilocano National Association, Inc. (USINA):
Abra, Apayao, Batanes, Benguet, Cagayan, Ifugao, Isabela, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Kalinga, La Union, Mountain Province, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Pangasinan, Quirino, Tarlac, and Zambales.
Together, these provinces represent the strength, heritage, and resilience of the Ilocano people — both in the Philippines and among Ilocanos living around the world.
Beyond her professional life, Marisa is an active member of dental and civic organizations including the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Rotary Club Philippines, and the ABS-CBN International Foundation — reinforcing her long-standing commitment to service and community impact.
This initiative is not about a crown.
It is about connection.
It is about compassion in action.
Every donation — no matter the amount — helps bring children closer to opportunity, confidence, and a brighter future.
Marisa believes that when we uplift a child, we uplift an entire community.
Thank you for supporting this mission and for helping turn hope into access.
Organizer
