The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences continued its commitment to professional growth and nursing leadership as Dean Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang and faculty member Ms. Janet P. Matchoc attended the 10th Summer Conference of the Philippine Nurses Association held on May 12, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Clark.
The conference brought together nursing professionals, educators, healthcare leaders, and policymakers from different parts of the country to discuss current issues and emerging directions in nursing practice, leadership, healthcare technology, workforce development, and policy engagement.
Throughout the conference, discussions centered on strengthening the role of nurses not only as healthcare providers but also as leaders, advocates, and contributors to health systems improvement. Sessions highlighted the importance of empowering nurses to participate actively in decision-making processes, exercise professional judgment confidently, and advocate for patient-centered and evidence-based care in increasingly complex healthcare environments.
The event also explored the growing impact of artificial intelligence and digital health technologies in nursing practice. Speakers emphasized the importance of using innovation responsibly to improve healthcare delivery while preserving compassionate and ethical nursing care at the bedside.
Mental health, adaptability, and workforce resilience were likewise emphasized during the discussions, recognizing the realities faced by nurses in demanding clinical settings. Speakers underscored the need for supportive systems, healthy work environments, and organizational responsibility in sustaining the well-being and professional growth of nurses.
Another key highlight of the conference was the discussion on strengthening the representation of nurses in leadership and policy-making spaces. The sessions encouraged stronger participation of nurses in governance, healthcare planning, and national policy development to ensure that frontline healthcare experiences contribute meaningfully to healthcare reforms and decision-making.
The conference concluded with a reaffirmation of the Philippine Nurses Association’s commitment to advancing nursing leadership, professional development, collaboration, and unified efforts toward empowering Filipino nurses across various areas of practice and service.
The participation of UC CONAHS representatives in national nursing conferences reflects the college’s continuing dedication to excellence in nursing education, lifelong learning, professional engagement, and the advancement of the nursing profession.
| Sustainable Development Goal | SDG Indicators |
|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.c Substantially increase health financing and the recruitment, development, training, and retention of the health workforce in developing countries |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | 4.7 Ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development |
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | 8.8 Protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure | 9.5 Enhance scientific research and upgrade technological capabilities in all sectors |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | 17.16 Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships |
