ABOUT US
ULAN was established in 2003 by human rights legal practitioners who believe that the environmental issue must be discussed in the context of human rights and its broader implications on poverty and injustice. Over the years, the organization has consistently expanded its core advocacies to address intersecting vulnerabilities, integrating disability rights in 2020 and anti-SGBV initiatives in 2026.
ULAN envisions a just and equitable society in a sustainable natural environment.
Our mission is to promote community empowerment through law, development and policy reform.
ULAN IS A HUMAN RIGHTS NGO ADVOCATING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, INDIGENOUS RIGHTS, DISABILITY INCLUSION, AND ANTI-SGBV INITIATIVES.
OUR STAFF
Ronaldo R. Gutiérrez
Executive Director
Atty. Ron is the Founder and Executive Director of ULAN, having established the organization in 2003 to address environmental issues within the broader context of human rights and justice. He graduated from the Ateneo Law School and earned his master’s degree from the London School of Economics, where he was a Chevening scholar. Alongside his leadership at ULAN, he is a dedicated legal educator, currently teaching at the Ateneo Law School and serving as an associate professor at the Philippine Judicial Academy.
Maria Luisa G. Cernero
Senior Coordinator
Malu has been with ULAN since its inception, and is instrumental in advancing the organization’s initiatives by actively networking with different stakeholders. She simultaneously sits as a Council Member of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) NGO Basic Sector.
Hazel Vianca I. Ortega
Staff Lawyer
Atty. Hazel’s advocacy centers on environmental protection, indigenous peoples’ rights, and inclusion for persons with disabilities, among others. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Ateneo Law School and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2023. Prior to joining ULAN, she cultivated her human rights experience as a legal intern at the Ateneo Human Rights Center and the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc.
Aleksi G. Bolos
Staff Lawyer
Atty. Aleksi is a graduate of San Beda University – Manila. He was actively involved in the San Beda College of Law Human Rights Advocates, Legal Aid Bureau, and the Electoral Board. Prior to joining ULAN, he practiced as an Associate at Kapunan & Castillo Law Offices and also worked in the local government.
Amilyn G. Alkathiri
Staff Lawyer
Atty. Amie advocates for underserved communities in asserting their legal rights and accessing available remedies. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of the East, Manila, was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2023, and is currently pursuing a Master of Laws at the University of Santo Tomas. Before entering the legal profession, she worked in the academe and is a licensed teacher. She began her legal career in government before joining ULAN.
Leilanie A. Dubla
Finance Staff
Lanie has served as Finance Staff since 2023, managing financial operations for ULAN’s advocacy programs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree on Elementary Education major in General Education from Benguet State University, and advocates for resource transparency for our partner funders and grassroots communities.
Bleasie G. Nebril
Admin Staff
Bleasie brings years of community outreach experience to her work supporting ULAN’s daily operations. She previously served as a Community Organizer for the Mother Earth Foundation and dedicated over a decade as a Junior Educator at Bahay Tuluyan Inc. She completed her studies at ERDA Technical & Vocational Secondary School and is a highly organized, adaptable professional dedicated to community-driven initiatives.