On 08 February 2024, the Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc. (PNAA) recently embarked on a journey through Philippine history with a guided tour at the Malacañang Museum, facilitated by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO). This initiative followed the resounding success of the PNAA’s Filipino Nurses’ Global Summit and 14th International Conference held in Iloilo on 25-26 January 2024. Led by Ms. Madelyn D. Yu, Chair of the PNAA’s Global Affairs Committee, the members seized the opportunity to immerse themselves in Philippine culture and heritage during their engagements in Luzon.

The guided tour unveiled various facets of Philippine history. It commenced at the Bahay Ugnayan (House of Correlation) featured President BBM’s Road to Malacañang, offering insights into his life and electoral triumph. Subsequently, the group explored the Teus Mansion, also known as the Presidential Museum, which showcased the lives and legacies of former Philippine presidents.

Following this tour, the PNAA extended a courtesy call to the CFO Chairperson, Secretary Romulo “Leo” V. Arugay on 12 February 2024. During the meeting, Ms. Madelyn L. Yu discussed potential collaboration opportunities with the CFO. Inquiring about the CFO’s conduct of Pre-Departure Orientation Seminars (PDOS), the PNAA sought assistance to support Filipino nurses transitioning to the US healthcare system.

During the courtesy call, CFO programs such as Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) and Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD) were presented to the PNAA delegation which they expressed interest in supporting these initiatives. They sought clarification on contributing to the LINKAPIL’s Adopt-A-Scholar project, and pledged to promote YouLeaD among its chapters in the US, recognizing its potential to aid Filipino-American youth in understanding their cultural identities.

Secretary Arugay expressed optimism for continued collaboration between the CFO and PNAA, proposing the organization of an Ugnayan in New Jersey to engage with Filipino nurses in the US. This partnership underscores the commitment of both entities to monitor migrant welfare and explore avenues for diaspora engagement.

Looking forward, the PNAA’s visit to the Malacañang Museum and courtesy call to the CFO mark significant steps in fostering cultural understanding and pave the way for meaningful partnerships aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of the Filipino diaspora. By embracing cultural exchange and cooperation, the PNAA and CFO exemplify a shared commitment to advancing the well-being and empowerment of Filipino communities worldwide.

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The Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc. (PNAA) is a 501c(6) non-profit professional nursing organization established in 1979 committed to upholding and fostering the positive image and welfare of Filipino-American nurses. PNAA aims to promote professional excellence and contribute to significant outcomes in healthcare and society through education, research, and clinical practice.