Empowering Seniors
Our Unique Value
What Sets Us Apart
Rita Manalo-Hammond: A Visionary Leader Transforming Senior Care
Rita Manalo-Hammond is the visionary founder of Mabuhay Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through health, well-being, and community engagement. Her journey in this field began with a deep passion for supporting the senior community, a passion that was ignited by her active involvement with the Mabuhay Senior Group. This group, established on September 12, 2023, at the Holiday Park Senior Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, flourished under Rita’s leadership, growing from a modest gathering to a vibrant community of over 50 seniors within six months.
Awards and Recognitions
Professional Expertise
Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Rita is a certified Zumba instructor specializing in Zumba Zin, Zumba Toning, and Zumba Gold. Her expertise in these fitness programs underscores her commitment to enhancing seniors’ health through enjoyable and adequate exercise.
A Passionate Commitment
Mabuhay Foundation Inc. was not merely an idea for Rita; it was a heartfelt initiative born from her deep connection with the Mabuhay Senior Group. Understanding the diverse needs of seniors, she envisioned a foundation that would offer more than just social activities—it would create a supportive environment where seniors could genuinely thrive. Rita’s mission is clear: to ensure seniors experience their golden years with joy, independence, and an enhanced quality of life.
Under Rita’s leadership, the Mabuhay Foundation continues to grow and evolve, driven by her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors.
Michael Penaflor
Michael, of MSP-Associates, is a dynamic and seasoned professional with over two decades of experience dedicated to enabling brand transformation and delivering measurable results in rapidly evolving business environments. Specializing in analyzing complex business needs and aligning financial operations with strategic objectives, Michael excels at executing solutions that drive profitability and efficiency. As a senior business consultant, Michael leads high-performing teams, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement, resulting in consistently remarkable outcomes for clients.
Committed to staying ahead of industry trends and innovations, Michael delivers value-driven solutions that empower brands to thrive in today’s business landscape. By leveraging extensive experience and expertise, Michael guides organizations to their full potential, helping them revitalize their brand, enhance operational efficiency, and navigate modern business complexities.
Marie Miranda, RN BSN
Marie serves as the treasurer for Mabuhay Foundation. She is also a dedicated Pediatric Nurse at Walter Reed National Military Center, where she combines her passion for healthcare with innovative practices. A graduate of Chamberlain University, Marie earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with President’s Honor. Her nursing journey began in rehabilitation and senior facilities, followed by a role in the Med-Surge Unit at George Washington Hospital.
Marie has been recognized as a Nurse Innovator for her pivotal contributions to pilot programs focused on lead and hemoglobin point-of-care testing across military facilities. As a team leader and preceptor, Marie is committed to mentoring new nurses and enhancing patient care. She also serves as a Joint Commission surveyor, oversees Pyxis training, and manages all point-of-care testing in the pediatric clinic, which leads the National Capital Region in testing volume. Marie’s expertise and leadership make her an invaluable asset to her team and the community she serves.
