PNAA Honors Outstanding Filipino Nurses at 2025 National Convention in Detroit

The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) hosted its 2025 National Convention at The Westin Book Cadillac in Detroit, bringing together Filipino American nurses from across the United States to recognize outstanding achievements in the profession.

During the highlight of the convention, the organization presented the 2025 Presidential Meritorious Service Awardsto seven distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to nursing and the Filipino American community. Honorees included Carol Robles, COL (Ret.) Bob Gahol, Dr. Rose Estrada, Dr. Meriam Caboral-Stevens, Dr. Leticia Hermosa, Dr. Leo-Felix Jurado, and Dr. Dino Doliente III.

The PNAA Commendation Awards were also presented to ten recipients whose passion and service have made a meaningful impact in their respective fields. This year’s awardees were Dr. Warly Remegio, Dr. Riza Mauricio, Manelita Dayon, Maricon Estebar, Teresa Damito, Asteria Vargas, Arlita Pang, Dr. Mary Dioise Ramos, Minette Reyes, and Vilma Ortiz.

The association also announced the 2025 PNAA Nurse Excellence Awardees, recognizing individuals who demonstrated exemplary performance in specialized areas of nursing. Awardees included:

• Carol Robles – Community/Population Health Nurse

• Ian Kirit – Nurse Informaticist

• Christopher de la Victoria – Nurse Educator

• Lorraine Evangelista – Nurse Researcher

• Christine Pabico – Nurse Administrator/Manager

• Danilo Bernal – Advanced Practice Registered Nurse

• BCPS EquiNurse Vanguards (PNANJ BergenPassaic County Subchapter) – DAISY Nurse Award for Advancing Health Equity (Team)

  
  

The PNAA Awards Committee, led by Chair Myrna Gacusan, organized the recognition program, which spotlighted the contributions of Filipino nurses in advancing healthcare excellence, health equity, and leadership across various sectors.

In addition to the awards, PNAA introduced the 2025–2026 Circle of Presidents Regional Representatives, who will serve as leaders across four U.S. regions

• Dr. Maricar Gomez – National Capital Region

• Catherine Rubio – Western Region

• Marites Calvelo – South Central Region

• Dr. Jonathan Gapilango – Eastern Region

  
  

The convention in Detroit highlighted the strength, unity, and continued advancement of Filipino American nurses nationwide, reaffirming their vital role in shaping the future of healthcare in the United States.