Today, 10 May 2025, Filipino nurses from across the globe gathered for the 6th Filipino Nursing Diaspora Day Webinar, a landmark event that attracted an impressive 2,100 participants from around the world. This year’s theme, “Bridging Borders, Building Futures: The Impact of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora in Global Healthcare,” resonated deeply with attendees and truly embodied the collective strength, resilience, and excellence of the Filipino nursing community.
The event opened with a powerful keynote address by Colonel (Ret.) Bob Gahol, president-elect of the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA). In his address, Col. Gahol highlighted the remarkable journey and global contributions of Filipino nurses, stating, “The spirit of Filipino nurses is a global force — resilient, compassionate, and committed to excellence, wherever we are called to serve.” His words set the tone for the day, inspiring pride in the shared heritage and determination that Filipino nurses bring to healthcare systems worldwide.
Adding further depth to the conversation were the insightful reactions from Mr. Megeve Sumampong, Chairperson of the Philippine Nurses Association, and Mr. Harby Abellanosa, President of the DOH Chief Nurses Association of the Philippines. Together, they illuminated both the challenges and the immense opportunities that lie ahead for Filipino nurses, whether practicing at home or abroad. Their reflections encouraged participants to consider how they could advocate for professional growth, better working conditions, and expanded leadership opportunities in their own contexts.
The webinar served as a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of Filipino nurses — a community marked by resilience, a deep commitment to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to serving humanity. Whether practicing in the Philippines or working across continents, Filipino nurses remain united in their mission to provide compassionate, high-quality healthcare.
Professor Violeta Lopez, RN, PhD, FACN, President of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network (FiND), delivered an inspiring message that celebrated the broad and meaningful roles Filipino nurses now hold in global healthcare. She shared, “Filipino nurses are not just workers in healthcare. They are leaders, advocates, innovators, and healers who bring compassion, resilience, and excellence wherever they serve. The Filipino nurses have become a powerful force in reshaping healthcare delivery, policy, and education across different countries.”
The success of this global event was made possible through the dedicated collaboration of FiND’s partner institutions — St. Anthony’s College-Antique, the Pacific Nursing Service Organization, Inc., and St. Paul University – Iloilo, our official CPD provider. A special note of gratitude goes to our platform sponsor, the UK-based World Continuing Education Alliance (WCEA), a global leader in providing accessible continuing education solutions for healthcare professionals.
The event’s masterful flow and engagement were ensured by the expert facilitation of Mr. Jofred Martinez, whose skillful moderation kept the energy high and the discussions meaningful throughout the program.
In his heartfelt closing remarks, Dr. Aris Kendell Bungabong, Dean of St. Anthony’s College-Antique and lead convenor of the event, left the audience with a powerful call to action: “As we move forward, let us carry with us the insights gained today and continue to support each other in our professional journeys. May we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing nursing practice and improving healthcare outcomes globally.”
Key leaders echoed this sentiment. Col. Bob Gahol, reflecting on the event, added, “This gathering reaffirms the unique power of the Filipino nursing diaspora. Together, we shape healthcare far beyond national borders, and together, we will continue to lift each other higher.”
Dr. Jerome Babate, Executive Director of FiND, underscored the significance of the day, saying, “This day reaffirms our shared identity as Filipino nurses — we are bridges of care, knowledge, and innovation across continents.” His words captured the essence of the event: that Filipino nurses, wherever they are, are linked by a shared purpose and the power to make a difference.
Dr. Patria Manalaysay, President of the Pacific Nursing Service Organization, also reflected on the importance of the event, saying, “Our collaboration reflects the strength of partnership in building a brighter future for Filipino nurses worldwide.”
The 6th Filipino Nursing Diaspora Day was not just another webinar; it was a celebration, a reflection, and a rallying point for the Filipino nursing community across the globe. It underscored that no matter where Filipino nurses serve, they carry with them a unique blend of skill, heart, and purpose that shapes healthcare in meaningful ways.
To the 2,100 participants who joined from various parts of the world — you are the heart and soul of Filipino nursing excellence. Your presence today reinforced the strength of our professional bonds, the richness of our shared experiences, and the limitless potential of what we can achieve when we come together.
As we look ahead, the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network and its partners remain committed to creating more opportunities for learning, connection, and advocacy. Let us carry the energy and insights of today’s gathering into our daily practice, into our leadership roles, and into the global conversations shaping the future of healthcare.
Here’s to Filipino nurses everywhere — may we continue to bridge borders and build brighter futures, together.
