By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday pledged continued government support for Filipino nurses, including efforts to improve nurse-to-patient ratios, fill vacant positions and expand training and employment opportunities.
Speaking at the Philippine Nurses Association Inc. (PNA) National Annual Convention 2026 in Pasay City, Marcos recognized nurses’ contributions to the country’s healthcare system and the global medical workforce, saying their welfare and professional development must remain a priority.
“Your contributions deserve our recognition and our continued commitment to advance the welfare and professional development of nurses,” Marcos said.
He said the government is working with the Department of Health to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve the working conditions of medical frontliners.
“We must also work towards improving nurse-to-patient ratios, filling vacant positions, providing more opportunities for our Filipino nurses,” he said.
Marcos said the administration is also working with the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to expand healthcare training and create alternative pathways for nurses.
He cited several initiatives, including the Clinical Care Associates program, which provides employment opportunities and review assistance to nursing graduates who have yet to pass the licensure examination
The President also noted the lifting of the moratorium on new Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in 2022.
The number of higher education institutions offering nursing programs has since increased from 354 in July 2022 to an estimated 425 as of June 2026, he said.
The government has also developed an enhanced one-year master’s degree program in nursing to help produce more qualified clinical instructors and educators.
Marcos further said the allocation for the health emergency allowance increased from PHP6.8 billion in 2022 to more than PHP110 billion in 2026 for public and private healthcare workers.
The President made the remarks during the convention marking the PNA’s 104th foundation anniversary and the 69th Nurses’ Week celebration. (PNA)
SUPPORT FOR NURSES. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. speaks at the Philippine Nurses Association, Inc. National Annual Convention 2026 in Pasay City on Monday (Oct. 19, 2026), where he pledged continued government support for Filipino nurses. Marcos said the government is working with the Department of Health to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve the working conditions of medical frontliners.
