Eli Ruiz

Eli Ruiz, a Licensed Civil Engineer, both in California and in the Philippines is the sixth president of FFRGOC. As a leader he: • Analyzed and improved the communications (using the SWOT analysis) among and between chapters and inactive areas which resulted to a well-attended Lenten Retreat during his tenure; • Conducted seminars and trainings with Irene Alzate, for board members, chapter directors and area officers to enhance existing leaderships skills and to increase FFRGOC membership and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary; • Ensured consistency in the conduct of various programs, i.e. Rosary Rally, Lenten retreats, May Floral Offering Novena, Christmas with OC Children, Simbang Gabi, etc. which brought about increased participation among members across Orange County; • Led the working team who reviewed and amended FFRGOC's Constitution and By-Laws for the first time; • Initiated the review of tax exempt status of the (Orange County) Federation and identified/requested Tony Quinto, CPA, and member of Area 7, Northeast Chapter to work on FFRGOC's separation from FFRG Los Angeles. Tax exempt status under Section 501 (c)(3) was approved by the Internal Revenue Service last January 29, 2015.

Before becoming President, Eli was Northeast Chapter Director from 2003-2007. Since 2012 to present, Eli is the Director of the Seminarian Program. He has been managing the program from the recruitment/selection of scholars to funding the education of the Philippine seminarians sponsored by FFROC. Three seminarians have made their vows to the priesthood since his term. Currently, there are five seminarians undergoing studies in theology proper. To safeguard the success of the seminarian program and to connect with seminarians and the seminary Registrar/Burser, Eli and Evelyn, went to visit St. John the Evangelist Seminary in Palo, Leyte, Philippines last February, 2019. That shows commitment!

Eli is an active parishioner of St. Joseph Church in Placentia. Eli serves as a lector, a GIFT leader and is a 4th degree member of the Knights and Columbus.

On a personal level, Eli is married to Evelyn who currently serves as the Director of the Northeast chapter and have two children. This couple certainly proves to be one of the powerhouse couple serving FFRGOC.