By Adele B. Campos, PhD, EdD, RN
The influx of Filipino nurses in the early 1980’s working in San Antonio showed numerous problems related to the practice of their profession due to the entirely different healthcare delivery system. The change in environment and exposure to people of diverse cultures created the need for adjustment to these nurses.
During these difficult times, the thought of having a professional organization that would assist these newcomers in their period of transition was considered- an organization that would establish a support system needed in their orientation and acculturation to the American way of life and health care activity, would promote professional nursing standards as defined by statutes and by recognized nursing organizations and accrediting agencies in the United States and the Philippines, and would provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and sharing of professional experience among Filipino nurses and their colleagues.
Although there were thoughts of organizing or unifying the Filipino nurses in San Antonio, it never became reality because of the lack of know how to start an organization as expressed by the group. Benefiting from Dr. Adele B. Campos’ advisement, tutelage and her vast experience in professional organizations, a small group of Filipino nurses met three times to consider forming an organization for Filipino nurses.
On March 13,1989, the Philippine Nurses Association of San Antonio (PNASA) was born. The pioneers of this newly formed association were the following: Dr Adele B. Campos, Liza Oliviano-Ancheta, Delia Villacorte (RIP), Lita Guiao, Brenda Abaya, Adora Celoza, Gloria Madellin, Susan Jimenez, Josie Taguiam (RIP), Fe Carreon, Phoebe Collins and Lulu Cantillas.
Since 1989, under the dynamic leadership, dedication, hardwork, vision, commitment of the past and current presidents namely: Noemi Horario, Lita Guiao, Cely Alcantara, Fedeliza Ancheta, Annaline Dellosa, Milagros Aquino, Susan Jimenez, Marietta Dela Cruz, Aurora Parrocha, Edison Diloy, Hedda Gonzalez, and Gertrude Umaming as well as the Officers and Board of Directors, the growth and development of PNASA, Inc. has been phenomenal. It has made significant strides to survive and endure the challenges of an association during its twenty-five years of existence.
PNASA made historical events in sponsoring two national conventions and one regional convention. PNASA sponsored the 15th National Convention in July 1994 under the leadership of Cely Alcantara and the 33rd National Convention in July 2012 under the leadership of Hedda Gonzalez. PNASA also sponsored the 6th Regional Convention in May 2006 under the leadership of Marietta Dela Cruz. May the Philippine Nurses Association of San Antonio, Inc. endure and many more decades to come.
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