The University of Northern Philippines (UNP), in collaboration with the Nurse Educators and Practitioners Guild, Inc. (NEPRAGuild), hosted the 5th Biennial International Conference on July 15–16, 2025, at the UNP Tadena Hall, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.
The two-day international event gathered around 200 participants, including nurse educators, practitioners, researchers, and student representatives from 15 institutions across the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Canada, and the United States.
The conference is anchored on the theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care Through C.O.N.V.E.R.G.E.N.C.E..”. The acronym C.O.N.V.E.R.G.E.N.C.E. stands for Collaboration, Optimism, Network, Value, Equity, Resilience, Governance, Excellence, Nurturance, Competence, and Economics, which serve as the guiding framework for discussions on nursing leadership, education, and practice.
Dr. Francis Don Nero, Dean of the UNP College of Nursing, welcomed the delegates and pointed out that the theme reflects ideals and principles driving equitable, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare.
Dr. Fatima Rocamora, UNP Vice President for Research and Extension, affirmed the university’s commitment to advancing nursing through evidence-based practice and scholarly engagement.
The opening program also featured inspirational messages from key government and institutional leaders.
Vigan City Mayor Hon. Randy Singson recognized nurses as the backbone of society, especially in times of crisis, and urged them to see the conference as a moment to renew their purpose, strengthen their networks, and reflect on the lasting impact they make every day. He stressed that public service mirrors the resilience and dedication shown by nurses in the face of adversity.
Hon. Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, Governor of Ilocos Sur, through the message delivered by Hon. Jester Singson, Special Assistant to the Governor, reminded participants that nurses form one united profession, responding to the evolving needs of healthcare systems, advocating for shared values, and giving voice to the vulnerable, the sick, and the forgotten. He thanked NEPRAGuild for nurturing excellence, continuous learning, and unity. He called on participants to support the next generation of leaders and raise the standards of health systems in the Philippines and beyond.
Dr. Erwin Cadorna, President of UNP, represented by Dr. Rolando B. Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said the conference theme reflects a shared vision for nursing education that is collaborative, future-oriented, and globally relevant. He emphasized the need for persistent efforts in challenging antiquated systems. He also encouraged lifelong learning and the development of curricula that empower nurses to thrive across various environments. Finally, he expressed hope that the conference would inspire everyone to work harder toward creating a more humane environment for nurses, ultimately leading to more effective service for communities.
Dr. Jude Tayaben, President of NEPRAGuild, presented an overview of the guild’s progress since its founding in 2016, emphasizing its commitment to evidence-based practice, lifelong learning, and international collaboration. With collective commitment, he affirmed, nurses can become transformative leaders and enduring pillars of a more just and responsive healthcare system. In addition, he also highlighted that the University of Northern Philippines stands as one of the pillars of nursing education and holds the distinction of being the oldest nursing school in the Ilocos Region.
In his keynote address, Dr. Edward Cruz, Associate Professor and Associate Dean at the University of Windsor in Canada, presented “Global Nursing Crisis: The Economic Power of Care”. He cited data showing a projected shortfall of 30.6 million health workers, including nurses, by 2030, and underscored the impact of attrition, burnout, and an aging workforce. Highlighting Canada’s initiatives for internationally educated nurses (IENs), he shared strategies such as multi-sector collaboration, mentorship, and bridging programs aimed at workforce integration. Dr. Cruz encouraged nurse leaders and educators to take an active role in addressing global challenges through inclusive practices and sustainable workforce development. He stressed that long-term solutions begin with policy and education reforms that empower nurses across borders.
The opening program concluded with two plenary sessions. Hon. Zenaida Gagno, Member of the Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing, delivered the first plenary on “The Convergence of Our Nurses,” emphasizing the role of nurses as economic drivers, health educators, and community leaders. She highlighted the power of unified values in advancing healthcare transformation. The second plenary, “The Convergence of Our Future,” was delivered by Dr. Judith Odanee Magwilang, National Vice President for Programs and Development of the Philippine Nurses Association. Her message centered on the need for collective action, innovation, and value-based care in building a resilient and equitable future for the nursing profession.
