Marisa has a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Ateneo de Manila University. In the Philippines, Marisa worked in Advertising, Training and Human Resource and Organisational Development (HROD). Marisa migrated to Australia in 1992 and worked in Banking and Finance for 18 years.
Marisa is currently the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Eduquer International and concurrently the Deputy Chairperson and Company Director of GAWAD KALINGA AUSTRALIA. Marisa is an active Community Leader and helped financially struggling Filipino International Students during the COVID Lockdown including those with severe medical conditions needing financial assistance. This exemplary service earned her to be recognised and chosen to be an Awardee of the VICTORIAN HONOUR ROLL FOR WOMEN in the Category of Leadership thru Disaster in Nov 2021. The only Filipina to ever win an award in the Victorian Honour Roll.
Being a community leader since 2008, Marisa has a very good network in the business and community sector both in Australia and the Philippines. Marisa has a soft spot for International Students as she has personally looked after those who are in need and prioritises their well-being, specially those who have no families in Australia.