RIA SERRANO
PACCAL Executive Director

Ria Serrano is a community-focused professional, civic leader, and proud Filipino-American whose life is rooted in resilience, service, and purpose.

She was born and raised in the Philippines. She finished her undegraduate studies with a Bachelors in Behavioral Science. Then immigrated to New York in 1996 with her parents and a sibling. The move was both hopeful and heartbreaking—while she, her parents, and brother have moved to the US, the elder sister had to stay in the Philippines. This family separation would deeply shape Ria’s sense of responsibility, compassion, and commitment to creating a better future not just for herself, but for others immigrants facing similar struggles.

Her American journey began with humble beginnings—her first job was as a cashier at a small store near Union Square in New York City. She then transitioned into the apparel industry, working first at a small fashion company and eventually landing roles at prominent brands where she gained extensive experience in operations, production coordination, and brand support. Seeking new challenges, Ria entered the tech and software consulting space with CGS Inc., a global business solutions company. There, she sharpened her skills in training digital systems and client service before returning to the fashion-tech space where she continued software training and consulting.

Outside of her professional achievements, Ria is a steadfast leader and volunteer in the nonprofit sector. She has held key positions in Junior Chamber International (JCI), guiding community projects and mentoring young leaders. With Team United, she supports  medical missions for overseas communities. 

Through her ongoing work with PACCAL (Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League), she helps implement health workshops for senior care, and cultural programming in Jersey City.

Ria Serrano exemplifies the spirit of service and perseverance. Her journey from an immigrant to a respected professional and community figure continues to inspire those who seek to lead with integrity and uplift others along the way.

Recognitions, Leadership Roles & Influence

Ria Serrano’s reputation extends far beyond her immediate neighborhood. Her leadership has earned her awards, board appointments, and speaking engagements. Highlights include:

• 2012 to present PACCAL (2012 to 2020 Board Member, 2020 to present Executive Director)

• 2012 to 2017 Junior Chamber International (2012 Member, 2013 Vice President of JCI Philippine New York, 2014 State Director of JCI New York State, 2014 Chapter Liaison of JCI Philippine New York to JCI New York State, 2014 to 2015 Charter Chapter President of JCI North Jersey, 2016 President of JCI State of New Jersey, 2017 Vice President of JCI USA, 2018 to present Advisor to JCI North Jersey and JCI New Jersey)  

• 2012 to 2020 Board Member of Team United Maharlika Foundation Inc.

• 2017 Conferred with a JCI Senator recognition #76566 by the Junior Chamber International

• 2020 to 2025 New Jersey JCI Senate (2020 to 2023 Board Member, 2023-2025 President, 2025 to 2026 Chairman of the Board)

• 2017 Conferred with a JCI NY State Governor recognition #360 by the Junior Chamber International New York State

• 2021 Conferred as Mrs. Friends Indeed by Friends Indeed USA Inc.

• 2022 to 2025 Board Member for United Federation of Filipino American Educators NJ Chapter

• 2022 Conferred with a JCI NJ State Governor recognition #   by the Junior Chamber International New Jersey State

• 2022 Conferred as an Honoree by Women's Federation for World Peace

• 2023 to 2025 Board Member for Ladies for Rizal NJ Chapter

• 2023 Conferred as Mrs. Kalayaan Fil-Am for Cultural Promotion by Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI)

• 2023 Conferred a Dr. Quines Honoree by Ladies for Rizal Long Island Chapter (LFR LI)

• 2023 Honored with a Plaque of Recognition Decade of Service (APAFI and OLMSA)

• 2023 Conferred as an Honoree by Filipino International Communities of America (FICA)

• 2024 Hermana for Cebu Sinulog in Bayonne, NJ hosted by Servants of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph (SJMJ)

• 2024 Conferred with a JCI USA Ambassador #   by the Junior Chamber International United States of America

• 2024 Conferred as an Honoree by United Federation of Filipino American Educators (UNIFFIED)

• Receiving citations from civic groups for her humanitarian outreach, pandemic response efforts, and young professional mentoring initiatives.

She is a connector—someone who builds bridges between generations, ethnic groups, and sectors.

Her accomplishments include:

• Senior Support & Advocacy: Recognizing the vulnerability of elderly Asian immigrants, Serrano continued the wellness programs, health workshops, and social events that address isolation, language barriers, and healthcare access. She became a trusted voice for seniors, ensuring they remain visible and valued in the community. From 2 part-time support staff to 9 part time support staff, Ria continues to find ways to create innovative programs to keep seniors active. 

• Youth Engagement: She launched programs to engage youth to meaningful activities within their local community. The next endeavor she plans is to connect the youth to intergenerational programming and their cultural roots.

• Women’s Empowerment & Civic Training: Serrano champions women-led initiatives and civic participation. Her workshops on leadership, public service, and organizing have empowered many, especially Filipina women, to find their voice in local advocacy.

• Emergency & International Relief: Beyond Jersey City, Serrano has coordinated medical donations and aid to disaster victims in the Philippines—demonstrating her global humanitarian perspective.
  
  
  

The Legacy of a Community Architect

Ria Serrano is more than a nonprofit director, community leader, or cultural advocate. She is a community architect—someone who has built lasting systems of care, empowerment, and belonging in Jersey City. Through PACCAL and beyond, she has uplifted the Filipino American story and woven it proudly into the fabric of American civic life.

Her legacy is seen in the confident voices of young Filipino Americans, the proud eyes of elder kababayans at a wellness workshop, and the grateful smiles of families who find support through her work. It is a legacy that will endure—not just in programs and events, but in the hearts of the people she continues to serve.