PRESIDENT MARCOS VOWS BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS, MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR FILIPINO NURSES

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vowed to improve the working conditions of Filipino nurses, provide more career opportunities, and strengthen support for healthcare workers.

Speaking at the Philippine Nurses Association, Inc. (PNA) National Annual Convention 2026 in Pasay City on Monday, President Marcos emphasized the need to fill vacant nursing positions and reduce the number of patients assigned to each nurse.

“We must also work towards improving nurse-to-patient ratios, filling vacant positions, and providing more opportunities for our Filipino nurses’ growth,” the President said.

President Marcos cited the increase in funding for the Health Emergency Allowance from P6.8 billion in 2022 to more than P110 billion in 2026 for public and private healthcare workers.

The President said the government also provides jobs and review classes assistance through the Clinical Care Associates Program for nursing graduates who have yet to pass the licensure examination.

President Marcos said the government continues to work with the Department of Health (DOH), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to strengthen the nursing workforce and provide more training opportunities.

“Our goal is to help more qualified Filipinos enter the profession, strengthen the capabilities and protect the welfare of our nurses to ensure that our healthcare institutions have the workforce that they need to serve our communities,” the Chief Executive said.

The President thanked nurses for their service and assured them of the government’s continued support.

“Patuloy po kaming magsisikap upang maibigay ang suporta, benepisyo, at oportunidad na nararapat para sa inyo,” President Marcos reiterated. |