The Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) Mountain Province Chapter, in collaboration with Saint Louis University – Sacred Heart Medical Center, successfully held its Annual Chapter Convention on December 28, 2024, in Bontoc, Mountain Province. With the theme “PNA Championing the Welfare of Filipino Nurses towards a Sustainable Nursing Workforce,” the convention gathered nurses and healthcare professionals to address the challenges facing the nursing profession and chart a path toward sustainability and resilience.
Keynote Address by Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang
The event featured Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang, Dean of the University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON), as the keynote speaker. Dr. Magwilang delivered a powerful and data-driven presentation on the state of the Philippine nursing workforce, highlighting the pressing need to address critical factors that impact workforce sustainability.
In her address, Dr. Magwilang presented current statistics that underscored the challenges faced by Filipino nurses, including workforce shortages, the increasing demand for nurses abroad, and the resulting strain on the local healthcare system. She also discussed socio-economic, institutional, and policy-related factors that influence the country’s ability to sustain its nursing workforce.
Dr. Magwilang emphasized investing in nurses’ welfare, creating supportive workplace environments, and advocating for policy reforms that protect and empower Filipino nurses. Her presentation called for collective action among healthcare institutions, government agencies, and nursing organizations to ensure that Filipino nurses receive the recognition, resources, and opportunities they deserve.
Driving Change for a Sustainable Nursing Workforce
The convention highlighted the vital role of the PNA in fostering dialogue and collaboration to address the challenges in the nursing profession. The insights and data shared by Dr. Magwilang set the tone for meaningful discussions and inspired participants to commit to the shared goal of building a resilient and sustainable nursing workforce.
As the PNA Mountain Province Chapter continues to champion the welfare of nurses, events like this convention play a pivotal role in shaping policies and practices that benefit not only the nursing profession but also the health and well-being of communities across the country.