Tabuk City, Kalinga – April 12, 2025 — The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON) proudly took part in the 18th Regional Student Nurses Congress 2025, hosted by the Cordillera Association of Nursing Deans, Inc. (CAND, Inc.), and co-organized by Saint Toni’s Colleges, Inc. (STCI). With the theme “Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses with Strong Foundation and Frontline Readiness,” the one-day event brought together nursing students and faculty from across the Cordillera region for an enriching experience of learning, fellowship, and inspiration.
A Regional Gathering of Future Nursing Leaders
The congress was a meaningful assembly of nursing students from various Cordilleran higher education institutions, offering a platform to promote professional growth, leadership, and preparedness for real-world nursing practice. The event aimed to empower student nurses to enhance their competencies, attitudes, and advocacy for the profession and the communities they serve.
UC-CON’s Faculty Delegation and Warm Welcome
Representing the UC College of Nursing was a delegation of dedicated faculty members led by Dean Judith Odanee G. Magwilang, RN, PhDN, who also serves as President of CAND, Inc. and Governor of the Philippine Nurses Association – Cordillera Administrative Region (PNA-CAR). She also delivered a motivational message during the opening program, encouraging student nurses to embody compassion, competence, and courage in their nursing journey.
The UC-CON faculty team included Ferdinand C. Tercero, Sonia Olnanigon, Letty Midang, Gomer Ponso, Raffy Jhoe Botilas, Beth Viduya, and Deksi Lawangen. The team arrived in Tabuk close to midnight and was warmly received by Dean Constancio K. Balbin, RN, MAN, of Saint Toni’s Colleges, Inc., who graciously accommodated and supported the delegates throughout their stay.
Joining them in the journey and offering consistent company and camaraderie was Mr. Christopher Ian Gaerlan, RN, Officer-in-Charge Dean of Star Colleges and Chair of the Student Development Committee of CAND, Inc.
Program Highlights
The congress featured notable plenary sessions and a keynote address, all focused on equipping student nurses for the demands of the healthcare field.
Key moments included:
- Welcome Remarks and Inspirational Message
- Dr. Kathleen Rose L. Guimbatan, EdD
- School President, Saint Toni’s Colleges Inc.
- Keynote Address:
- “Building a Strong Foundation: Essential Skills for Student Nurses”
- Dr. Wireen Leila T. Dator, RN, DNS
- Director, Research Center, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University
- 🩺 Plenary Session 1:
- “Frontline Readiness: Preparing for the Reality of Nursing Practice”
- Celvir Grace B. Bangcaya, RN, MSN
- Nurse II, Kalinga Provincial Hospital
- Plenary Session 2:
- “Mental Health and Wellbeing: Supporting the Next Generation of Nurses”
- Alfred June O. Fomocao, RN, MAN
- Dean, MPSU College of Nursing
These sessions sparked meaningful discussions, strengthened academic collaboration, and emphasized the holistic development of future nurses.
The event was a resounding success—well-organized, purposeful, and truly empowering for the next generation of Cordilleran nurses. It showcased the strength of collaboration among nursing institutions and served as a proud achievement of Saint Toni’s Colleges Inc. for their excellent hosting and leadership throughout the congress.
Looking Forward
The 18th Regional Student Nurses Congress 2025 proved to be more than just an academic gathering—it was a celebration of unity, service, and excellence in the nursing profession. With the unwavering support of dedicated educators and leaders, UC-CON remains committed to shaping competent and compassionate nurses ready to serve on the frontlines of healthcare.
