Dr. Maria Mares, the symposium’s leading convener, expresses her enthusiasm for this year’s gathering, stating, “Join us for the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium on May 3rd, 2025! We are thrilled to announce the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium, themed ‘Filipino Nurses’ Global Impact: Innovations and Best Practices.’ This event will be held at Western Sydney University’s Campbelltown Campus, starting at 8:30 AM. Celebrate the remarkable contributions of Filipino nurses worldwide by participating in this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with nursing leaders, clinicians, academics, and students. Engage in insightful discussions, explore new innovations, and share your expertise to advance our mission of excellence in nursing.”

Filipino nurses have long been recognized for their dedication, expertise, and compassion within various healthcare environments. The symposium will highlight these achievements through keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees will explore topics such as technological advancements in healthcare, best practices for patient engagement, leadership strategies, and advocacy for the profession. By bringing together a wide range of professionals, the symposium seeks to drive new perspectives, celebrate innovative ideas, and strengthen a global network of nursing leaders, educators, and clinicians.

In addition to its focus on professional development, the symposium also serves as a platform for organizations wishing to sponsor the event. Dr. Mares states, “Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to support the professional development of Filipino nurses and gain visibility within a global network. By sponsoring this event, you demonstrate a commitment to the nursing profession and help shape the future of healthcare.” Sponsors benefit from enhanced brand exposure, direct access to healthcare stakeholders, and the opportunity to foster international collaboration. Sponsorship contributions further the symposium’s mission by funding educational resources, conference materials, and future-oriented sessions to bolster nursing capacity.

The FiND Network, composed of dedicated Filipino nurse leaders worldwide, welcomes the support of healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders aligned with its goals. The 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium aspires to spark collective action and cultivate leadership to meet present and future healthcare demands by uniting around a shared commitment to nursing excellence. Doing so reinforces the importance of recognizing Filipino nurses’ pivotal role in shaping patient care and implementing evidence-based solutions.

Interested participants can register via the symposium’s Eventbrite page https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/5th-filipino-international-nursing-symposium-tickets-991541767117. More details, including program updates and additional resources, are accessible upon registration. Potential sponsors, collaborators, and those seeking more information are encouraged to contact the FiND Network or Dr. Maria Mares directly.

Organizers invite nursing professionals, students, and allies from across the globe to participate. By gathering under one roof, attendees will have the chance to share knowledge, best practices, and emerging concepts in nursing, all aimed at advancing patient outcomes and promoting a more robust healthcare system. The day promises meaningful exchanges, insightful learning experiences, and renewed appreciation for the crucial role that Filipino nurses play worldwide.

With the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium fast approaching, the FiND Network encourages all supporters of the nursing profession to mark their calendars for May 3, 2025. This event provides a rare opportunity to celebrate Filipino nurses’ achievements, explore bold new frontiers in healthcare, and empower nursing communities to excel on an international level. Please visit the event’s registration page or contact the convenor for further details on how to participate, sponsor, or otherwise contribute to this noteworthy gathering.

The post FiND Network announces symposium on innovations and best practices in nursing on May 3, 2025 appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.

One of the most emblematic breakthroughs this year was the election of Manu Pelayo as the Deputy Chairperson of the Board of the Nursing Council of New Zealand. Manu’s ascension to this prestigious role—the first Filipino to hold such a post—reminds us that leadership opportunities are not confined by nationality or geography. His presence at the governance level signals that Filipino nurses are ready, willing, and able to help guide the direction of nursing regulations and policies. It’s a powerful statement of inclusion and representation: if Filipino nurses can rise to influence how nursing standards are set and maintained, what barriers remain that we cannot surmount?

This theme of leadership resonates strongly in the United Kingdom as well. Following last year’s trailblazing achievement of Oliver Soriano becoming the first Filipino Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) in the NHS, 2024 saw the appointment of Edmund Tabay as the second Filipino CNO. The significance of having not just one, but now two Filipino leaders in these top clinical executive roles cannot be overstated. It demonstrates that our contributions are not anomalies or one-off successes. Instead, we are carving out a permanent space at the table where decisions about patient care models, staffing policies, and strategic healthcare planning are made. Through their work, Edmund and Oliver personify the FiND Network’s vision: nurturing a cadre of Filipino nurse leaders who can mentor, inspire, and open doors for others.

On the other side of the world, the United States also witnessed groundbreaking progress. Dr. Jose D. Castillo III’s election as president-elect of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is a milestone that goes beyond personal accomplishment. He is the first Filipino to hold this key position, an honor that places him at the very heart of nursing regulation in the U.S. Accompanying this achievement, five other Filipino nurses have taken on roles in various state nursing boards, further cementing the Filipino community’s influence in shaping nursing practice and standards. These developments are perfectly aligned with FiND’s ongoing efforts to encourage our members to aim high and engage at policy and regulatory levels, ensuring that the Filipino perspective is actively included in the evolving discourse of healthcare governance.

In Australia, too, Filipino nurses have continued to break new ground. Karissa Subedi’s election to the Wagga Wagga City Council—a government post that extends beyond clinical confines—exemplifies the notion that Filipino nurses possess not only clinical acumen but also broader leadership capabilities in civic and political spheres. This expansion into non-traditional leadership roles underscores the FiND Network’s belief that nursing leadership can transcend the walls of hospitals and clinics. It can influence public health policy, community well-being, and social determinants of health at the municipal, regional, and national levels. When a Filipino nurse steps into a political arena, it showcases to the world that our profession’s ethos of care, equity, and compassion is universal, equally relevant in legislative chambers as in patient wards.

The recognition of Filipino nurses has also come in the form of prestigious international awards. Maria Victoria Juan’s receipt of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 stands as a global acknowledgment of the extraordinary contributions Filipino nurses make. Such accolades signal that our community’s impact on healthcare delivery is both profound and widely respected. To see one of our own honored on the global stage inspires the next generation of Filipino nurses, encouraging them to pursue excellence and leadership, and reminding them that their heritage is a source of pride and strength.

Further adding to this chorus of accomplishment, the Philippine Nurses Association of New York (PNA NY) and Dr. Leo Jurado received the 2024 Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO). This prestigious recognition underscores the fact that Filipino nurses not only integrate seamlessly into their host countries’ healthcare systems but often go above and beyond, becoming exemplars of professionalism, cultural competence, and service. The FiND Network takes immense pride in witnessing such honors because they validate our work in creating pathways for Filipino nurses to thrive globally.

As we reflect on the achievements of this year, it’s clear that they are not isolated successes. They are part of a larger narrative—one that FiND strives to shape. The FiND Network exists to empower Filipino nurses by fostering excellence, leadership, and collaboration. The accomplishments of Manu, Edmund, Dr. Castillo, Karissa, and Maria Victoria, along with the recognition of PNA NY and Dr. Jurado, show us that our efforts to build supportive networks, champion mentorship programs, and advocate for professional development are paying dividends. These milestones offer tangible evidence that Filipino nurses can and do excel when given the opportunity and support.

However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that persist. The global nursing community continues to confront workforce shortages, inconsistent access to resources, and inequities in professional advancement. Representation matters, but representation alone is not enough. FiND’s work does not end with celebrating our newest leaders; it extends to advocating for systemic changes that ensure more Filipino nurses can follow in their footsteps. These successes must inspire not only pride but also action. We must continue investing in leadership training, encouraging research and scholarship, forging alliances with nursing organizations worldwide, and pushing for policies that dismantle barriers to career progression.

As 2025 approaches, we stand at a pivotal moment. The achievements of 2024 have set a remarkable precedent, demonstrating what is possible. Now, we must build on this momentum, fostering a future where even more Filipino nurses step into leadership roles and help shape the future of global healthcare. The FiND Network is committed to nurturing this cycle of success, ensuring that the brilliance of Filipino nurses continues to shine brightly, guiding our community and inspiring a better, more inclusive world of nursing for all.

The post FiND Network celebrates a banner year of Filipino nursing excellence and global recognition appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.

Currently serving as a Consultant at Philippine Army Health Services and a Colonel in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Maria has made pioneering strides in military healthcare. Known for her visionary leadership and innovative solutions, she has continually championed the welfare of her team and the soldiers she serves.

As the Chief Nurse of the Philippine Army, Maria was instrumental in conceptualizing and establishing the first aeromedical evacuation system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This groundbreaking initiative has significantly improved survival rates by enabling rapid evacuation and early treatment of casualties, particularly in conflict zones.

From planning and budgeting to assembling a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and aviation personnel, Maria’s leadership ensured the program’s success and sustainability. Her innovative approach and meticulous execution have not only saved countless lives but have also set a new standard for military healthcare.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of nurses worldwide who go above and beyond to make a difference in healthcare. Maria’s victory highlights the excellence of Filipino nurses, who consistently demonstrate their expertise, compassion, and resilience on the global stage.

Two other Filipino nurses were also recognized as finalists: Nelson Bautista, representing Filipino nurses in the United Arab Emirates, and Laarni Florencio, representing the United States. Their inclusion reflects the global impact of Filipino healthcare professionals, whose dedication transcends borders.

In her acceptance speech, Maria expressed gratitude and pride in her profession:
“I am deeply honored to receive the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024. Nursing is a truly rewarding profession where we have the opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives. This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it underscores the hard work and resilience of nurses everywhere in the world. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues, mentors, patients, and family who have inspired and guided me.”

The Executive Director of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora (FiND) Network, Dr. Jerome Babate, praised Maria Victoria’s achievement:

“Maria Victoria Juan’s victory is a testament to the excellence and dedication of Filipino nurses worldwide. Her leadership and innovation exemplify the critical role nurses play in shaping healthcare systems and saving lives. This recognition not only highlights her individual contributions but also serves as an inspiration for nurses across the globe to continue making a difference.”

Maria’s career embodies the essence of nursing as a calling to serve humanity. Her leadership in implementing the AFP’s aeromedical evacuation system reflects her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring that soldiers receive timely and life-saving care even in the most remote and dangerous settings.

Her work goes beyond operational excellence; it is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. Maria has inspired her colleagues to rise to their full potential, creating a culture of trust and teamwork that strengthens healthcare delivery within the Philippine Army.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 is a celebration of Maria’s extraordinary contributions, but it is also a call to action for the global healthcare community. Nurses are often the unsung heroes of healthcare, and Maria’s recognition shines a light on the critical role they play in saving lives, improving systems, and shaping the future of healthcare.

Maria’s story also serves as an inspiration for aspiring nurses, especially from the Philippines, to embrace their profession with passion and purpose. Her achievements highlight the boundless opportunities available to those who lead with vision and compassion.

Maria’s win is a moment of pride not only for the Philippines but also for the global nursing community. Her dedication and achievements reflect the Filipino spirit of resilience, care, and excellence. Alongside Nelson Bautista and Laarni Florencio, Maria has elevated the status of Filipino nurses on the international stage, proving that their contributions are invaluable and worthy of the highest recognition.

Maria Victoria Juan’s victory at the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 is more than a personal milestone; it is a celebration of the transformative power of nursing. As a leader, innovator, and advocate, Maria has set a benchmark for excellence that will inspire generations to come.

Her work reminds us that nursing is not just a profession—it is a mission to serve, heal, and improve lives. Maria’s legacy will continue to resonate, not only in the Philippines but across the world, as a shining example of what it means to lead with heart and vision.

The post The unsung hero: Maria Victoria Juan’s leadership and innovation in military and global healthcare appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.

One of the most critical areas requiring attention is healthcare policy. Filipino nurses often work in high-pressure environments with staffing shortages and long hours. Addressing these issues through policy reforms that prioritize workforce expansion, improved working conditions, and fair wages would significantly enhance both patient care and nurse well-being. Ensuring adequate support for healthcare workers must be a top priority for the new administration.

Immigration policy is another crucial area with direct implications for Filipino nurses. Dr. Marlon Garzo Saria*, a prominent Filipino nurse leader, highlights a key reality: “There is an ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in the U.S., particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging population.” However, he cautions that immigration policies could either facilitate or hinder the entry of skilled healthcare workers. During his previous term, former President Donald Trump implemented restrictive immigration policies, including tightening visa categories like the H-1B, often used by skilled workers, including nurses. If similar policies are reintroduced, it could complicate the ability of Filipino nurses to secure work visas.

Nonetheless, Dr. Marlon points out that merit-based immigration policies, which prioritize highly skilled workers, could still provide pathways for Filipino nurses. While these policies offer opportunities, they also create challenges by reducing family-based immigration, which is often a critical support system for many nurses. Additionally, restrictive policies that are perceived as anti-immigrant can lead to workplace stress and insecurity, affecting the mental health and productivity of Filipino nurses.

Support for workforce development programs is equally important. Funding for training initiatives and support services tailored for immigrant healthcare workers is crucial for helping nurses adapt to the U.S. healthcare system. These programs not only improve skills but also foster a sense of belonging and professional growth. As Dr. Marlon notes, changes in healthcare policies and funding “could impact the resources available to Filipino nurses working in the U.S.” It is essential that the new administration recognizes and invests in these areas to sustain a resilient and culturally diverse healthcare workforce.

From a geopolitical standpoint, this election also offers an opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Philippines relations. The Filipino nursing community hopes for policies that not only ease immigration pathways but also promote bilateral cooperation in healthcare, education, and workforce development. Such partnerships would benefit both countries, fostering mutual growth and support.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed herein are solely of Dr. Marlon Garzo Saria and do not represent the views and opinions of his employers or the PNAA

The post What does the 2024 U.S. election outcome mean for Filipino nurses? appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.

Qatar’s expressed interest in hiring more skilled Filipino workers opens a substantial gateway for increased job opportunities, particularly for Filipino nurses. This is not just a win for the individuals and their families who will benefit from better employment conditions, but also for the healthcare sector in Qatar, which will gain from the renowned professionalism and expertise of Filipino nurses. These opportunities are timely, given the ongoing global health crises where the need for experienced healthcare professionals has spiked dramatically.

The enhancements in the employment contracts as agreed upon include several key aspects: improved working conditions, higher end-of-service benefits, comprehensive access to medical and social care, and accommodation that respects the cultural and religious nuances of Filipino workers. For nurses, who often endure long hours and emotionally and physically demanding work environments, these changes are not just improvements but necessities that ensure their health, well-being, and continued professional performance.

Furthermore, the agreement introduces better job security measures, including a reduced probationary period and clearer guidelines for contract termination. These measures are crucial for providing a stable and secure work environment, empowering nurses to perform their duties without the constant threat of unjust termination hanging over their heads. Such stability is essential not only for the individual’s career progression but also for the overall continuity and reliability of healthcare services.

A particularly commendable aspect of this bilateral agreement is the establishment of a joint committee to “review and enhance” existing and pending labor agreements. This committee’s work, crucially to include representatives from the Filipino nursing community, embodies a participatory approach to policy development. It ensures that the voices of those directly affected by these policies are heard and considered. This inclusion is vital for crafting realistic and effective labor laws that genuinely cater to the workers’ needs.

This proactive and inclusive approach extends beyond just contract negotiations. The provision for pre-arrival preparations, onboarding support, formal classes, and clinical orientation facilitates a smoother transition for nurses moving to Qatar. This not only aids in their professional adjustment but also in their personal and social adaptation, which is often overlooked in labor agreements. The success of these provisions can serve as a model for other nations and can enhance the reputation of Qatar as a leading destination for healthcare professionals.

The collaborative effort between the Philippines and Qatar sets a benchmark for international labor agreements, especially in sectors as critical as healthcare. It highlights the importance of not just filling employment quotas but ensuring that the recruitment process is ethical, the migration is safe, and the work conditions foster dignity and respect for the labor force. The positive implications of these improved labor agreements are profound, setting a precedent that hopefully many more countries will follow, ensuring that the global demand for healthcare professionals is met with equally robust standards of employment practice.

References:

How can Internationally Educated Nurses adapt to the Australian healthcare environment? https://healthcarechannel.co/how-can-internationally-educated-nurses-adapt-to-the-australian-healthcare-environment/ Retrieved on 5 September 2024  

Filipino nurses, engineers to find more jobs in Qatar https://www.arabnews.com/node/2565551/world Retrieved on 5 September 2024

A seasoned nurse leader,  Jerome Babate, RN, MBA, PhD, LCLP  delves into socio-economic and political landscapes, offering insightful analyses and practical recommendations through the lens of healthcare and community advocacy.  

The post How will the revised Philippine-Qatari labor agreements impact Filipino nurses working abroad? appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.

Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, and it is now recognized as the most preventable nutritional disease of the 21st century. With obesity rates in children escalating alarmingly over the past two decades, the need for effective, sustainable interventions has never been more urgent. Schools, as pivotal environments where children spend a significant portion of their day, are crucial settings for implementing these interventions. Yet, the potential role of school nurses in these settings is often overlooked.

School nurses are uniquely positioned to influence the health and well-being of children. Their expertise goes beyond treating minor injuries and administering medication; they have the potential to be at the forefront of public health initiatives within the school environment. Therefore, in the context of tackling obesity, it is vital that school nurses are recognized not merely as caregivers but as integral parts of the health promotion team within schools.

Involving school nurses in obesity interventions can significantly enhance the effectiveness of these programs. Nurses can identify at-risk students early, provide counseling, and work with families to make healthier lifestyle choices. Furthermore, they can lead efforts in education and prevention programs that teach students about nutrition and physical activity, fostering a culture of health from a young age.

The role of school nurses can also extend to participating in or even leading School Wellness Committees and other health-focused working groups. If they are not already included, school nurses should advocate for their involvement, which can be facilitated by school nursing leadership. Such leadership should not hesitate to engage with school administrators to discuss the integration of school nurses into the strategic planning and execution of obesity prevention programs. These discussions might also include advocating for necessary resources, such as budget allocations for training school nurses to effectively participate in and lead obesity interventions.

Moreover, the impact of school nurses should not stay confined within the walls of the school. By disseminating their work through presentations at local or national conferences, school nurses can share best practices and successful case studies, thereby empowering other nursing professionals to initiate similar programs in their respective schools. This approach not only enhances the visibility of school nurses’ contributions to student health but also builds a supportive network of professionals dedicated to combating childhood obesity.

As the UAE moves forward with its health initiative, it has the opportunity to serve as a role model not only in the Middle East but globally, by integrating school nurses into their obesity prevention strategies. This approach will not only maximize the reach and efficacy of their programs but also highlight the critical role of school nursing in public health.

Commending the UAE’s health officials for this initiative is appropriate; however, it’s also an opportunity to call for an expansion of roles for school nurses, recognizing them as essential agents in the fight against childhood obesity. By doing so, we can ensure that interventions are not only implemented but are sustained and effective, making a lasting impact on the health trajectories of children.

References:

New initiative by UAE health officials to tackle obesity among school students https://gulfnews.com/uae/new-initiative-by-uae-health-officials-to-tackle-obesity-among-school-students-1.103931893 Retrieved 29 August 2024

The pivotal Role of nurses in education and health Read more: https://opinion.inquirer.net/168807/the-pivotal-role-of-nurses-in-education-and-health#ixzz8kGu3jEvD Retrieved 29 August 2024

School nurses as mental health professionals https://opinion.inquirer.net/164053/school-nurses-as-mental-health-professionals#ixzz8kGtiARCY Retrieved 29 August 2024

Schroeder K, Travers J, Smaldone A. Are School Nurses an Overlooked Resource in Reducing Childhood Obesity? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sch Health. 2016 May;86(5):309-21. doi: 10.1111/josh.12386. PMID: 27040469; PMCID: PMC4939612.

Nauta C, Byrne C, Wesley Y. School nurses and childhood obesity: an investigation of knowledge and practice among school nurses as they relate to childhood obesity. Issues Compr Pediatr Nurs. 2009;32(1):16-30. doi: 10.1080/01460860802610186. PMID: 19263291.

Prioritizing school nurses over guidance counselors in learning crisis https://opinion.inquirer.net/176106/prioritizing-school-nurses-over-guidance-counselors-in-learning-crisis#ixzz8kGtv8fjn

A seasoned nurse leader,  Jerome Babate, RN, MBA, PhD, LCLP  delves into socio-economic and political landscapes, offering insightful analyses and practical recommendations through the lens of healthcare and community advocacy.  

The post Could school nurses be the key to combatting childhood obesity in the UAE? appeared first on The Global Filipino Magazine.