WAAnderWoman: Dara, not just an Explorer

With Mother’s Day coming up, WeAreAyala honors #WAAnderWomen in the Ayala group who inspire their families and colleagues to be extraordinary too.

Licensed physical therapist Dara Gay Coloso originally applied for a rehabilitation services position at QualiMed Hospital Iloilo, but she landed a medical secretary role in October 2014.

Dara’s role eventually grew as she became a physician and customer relations associate manager and executive assistant to the COO of QualiMed Iloilo. “My role is rewarding yet challenging. It’s not always easy to handle an irate client, but I always try my best to understand them. My compassion and patience were put to test during the height of the pandemic,” she says.

Dara also spearheads the hospital’s medical and relief missions, further immersing her in the communities they serve and keeping her heart full and spirit afloat.

Outside her work at QualiMed, Dara is also a college instructor, a professional photographer, and a dressmaker. At the end of the day, how does she recharge?

“I go home to my daughter, Tin, who is now my barkada. Nakikibarkada na rin siya sa friends ko. [She is also friends with my friends.] She is my energetic travel companion, my talented critic, and my constant bully,” Dara says.

Despite the challenges of raising a child with autism by herself, Dara now enjoys traveling with Tin, biking around town, trekking mountains, visiting museums, and trying out good food.

“Tin is now independent and reliable, just like me. I try to pass on to her the values I live by and the life lessons I learn along the way,” Dara muses. “I always tell her to do good things, and good things will come back to you. Learn to brush aside the negativities, and you will live a peaceful life. Do good to people, to nature, and have faith in the Supreme being,” Dara adds.

Dara walks the talk as a Gawad Kalinga volunteer. She is also a Couples for Christ Music ministry member and a women’s rights and breastfeeding advocate.