The Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network (FiND) proudly presents the second year of the prestigious Lopez Award and the newly established Honor Roll. These recognitions celebrate the outstanding achievements of Filipino nurses who have made significant contributions to nursing research and education across the globe. This year, the Lopez Awardees and Honor Roll recipients represent a diverse group of scholars from around the world, whose dedication to advancing the nursing profession is truly inspiring.
The Lopez Award
Named after Professor Violeta Lopez, a distinguished nurse leader with over 45 years of experience in academia, research, and clinical practice, the Lopez Award is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence in the nursing profession. Professor Lopez has been a trailblazer in evidence-based nursing practice and nursing education, with a career that spans multiple countries and institutions. Her profound influence on the global nursing community is exemplified by her groundbreaking work in nursing research, leadership, and education.
In 2025, the Lopez Award is awarded to five nursing scholars whose research contributions have made a significant impact in their respective fields. These awardees are:
Maria Mares (Australia)
PhD Thesis: Exploring the relationship between health literacy, self-efficacy, and self-management in people with coronary heart disease using a mixed methods approach: The RHYTHM Study
Western Sydney University
Rizaldy Bandola (United States of America)
DNP Title: Enriching Nutritional Status in the Intensive Care Unit Through Early Enteral Nutrition
Chamberlain University
Reynaldo Capucao, Jr. (United States of America)
PhD Dissertation: Pressed into Starched Whites: Nursing (Dis)ability in Filipino/American History
University of Virginia
Tenber Grota (Australia)
PhD Thesis: Nurse-surgeons in the Australian public health system: A mixed methods study
Australian Catholic University
Mary Anne Lagmay Tanay (United Kingdom)
PhD Thesis: Development of a behavioural intervention to reduce the impact of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy using Experience-Based Co-Design and the Common Sense Model
King’s College London
These awardees have not only contributed valuable research but have also shaped the future of nursing practices and health systems in their respective countries. Their work, ranging from improving cardiovascular health to exploring the historical and social dimensions of Filipino nursing practice, showcases the diversity and impact of Filipino nurses in the global healthcare landscape.
The honor roll: A new recognition
In addition to the Lopez Award, FiND is introducing the Honor Roll, a new recognition project aimed at celebrating Filipino nurses who have completed their Master’s degrees between 2023 and 2024. This honor recognizes their commitment to advancing their education and expertise in nursing and related fields. The Honor Roll recipients are as follows:
Janliz Elline Timbas-Fjodorov (United Kingdom)
Master of Science (Anglia Ruskin University)
Reggiel Borgonia (United Kingdom)
Master of Science (University of West London)
Mark Daquigan (Ireland)
Master of Science (Stirling University)
Christopher Edd Galeno (Canada)
Master of Science (McMaster University)
Emerlin Alvarez (Ireland)
Master of Science (University of Limerick)
Christian Paul Gonzales (Canada)
Master of Nursing (University of Regina)
Jeni May Palima (United Kingdom)
Master of Science (Edge Hill University)
Mary Anne Santiago (United Arab Emirates)
Master of Business Administration (Geneva Business School under Lincoln University of Business and Management)
Emerson Castillo (United Kingdom)
Master of Arts (City St George’s, University of London)
Fitz Gerald Camacho (United Arab Emirates)
Master of Business Administration (York St. John University, United Kingdom)
Jon San Martin (Australia)
Master of Palliative Care (University of Technology Sydney)
Rose Bert Agurilla (Canada)
Master of Science in Nursing (Aspen University)
Jayson Catiwa (Australia)
Masters by Research (University of New South Wales)
Krisnan Ed Gundaya (United Arab Emirates)
Master of Business Administration (Ascencia Business School of College de Paris)
Cheyser Joy Corpuz (United States of America)
Master of Business Administration (Philippine Christian University)
Vanessa Cawis (Australia)
Master of Nursing (Western Sydney University)
Stephanie Simon-Madrigal (Australia)
Master of Clinical Nursing (University of Tasmania)
Louie Caneja II (Ireland)
Master of Science (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland)
Mark King Dimasisil (Saudi Arabia)
Master in Management (Philippine Christian University)
Ryan Delos Santos (United Kingdom)
Master of Science (University of West London)
Teddy Jr Chan Untalasco (Australia)
Master of Advanced Nursing Practice (University of Melbourne)
The Honor Roll serves as an acknowledgment of the relentless pursuit of knowledge by Filipino nurses, who continue to raise the bar in their professional development. These individuals exemplify the commitment to continuous learning and the elevation of nursing standards globally.
The importance of these recognitions
According to FiND Executive Director, Dr. Jerome Babate, “The Lopez Award and Honor Roll are essential in highlighting the remarkable contributions of Filipino nurses in both research and education. These recognitions are not only a celebration of individual achievements but also an affirmation of the global influence Filipino nurses have in advancing healthcare practices and policies.”
Two key reasons for this recognition include:
- Promoting Excellence in Nursing Education and Research: The Lopez Award acknowledges the hard work of those whose research directly influences nursing practice, improving patient care and health outcomes. The Honor Roll, on the other hand, celebrates the educational achievements of nurses who are shaping the future of the profession through advanced degrees.
- Inspiring Future Generations: Both recognitions inspire other Filipino nurses to strive for excellence in their own careers. By celebrating the achievements of these scholars, FiND encourages the next generation of Filipino nurses to pursue higher education and contribute meaningfully to healthcare research and practice.
These prestigious awards will be presented during the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium in Sydney, Australia, on Saturday, 3 May 2025. The symposium promises to be an inspiring and empowering event, with an array of esteemed speakers and opportunities for networking and learning.
A legacy of excellence
The Lopez Award and the Honor Roll celebrate a legacy of excellence that has been fostered by the visionary leadership of Professor Violeta Lopez. These recognitions continue to reflect her commitment to nursing, healthcare, and global collaboration.
