Washington, D.C., July 28, 2025 — A warm and heartfelt welcome was extended to newly arrived Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) in the DMV area during a special event jointly organized by the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Philippine Nurses Association of Metropolitan DC, Inc. (PNAMDC). The event, part of the ongoing Ate & Kuya Program launched in October 2024, reaffirmed the Filipino community’s commitment to supporting fellow kababayans as they begin their careers in the U.S. healthcare system.
Minister and Consul General Donna M. Rodriguez delivered a keynote speech expressing gratitude for PNAMDC’s tireless efforts in assisting IENs. “Your stories, resilience, and service reflect the highest values of the Filipino people. The Embassy is proud to support you in this journey,” she said, underscoring the crucial role of community initiatives like the Ate & Kuya Program in helping IENs adjust to both the cultural and professional environment in the U.S.
PNAMDC President Christine Pabico also addressed the attendees, offering words of encouragement and solidarity. “PNAMDC remains committed to ensuring that every internationally educated Filipino nurse feels guided, supported, and celebrated,” she said.
The program spotlighted success stories of nurses who have benefited from the Ate & Kuya Program. Ms. Hazel Lubguban and Mr. Fern Garcia shared moving testimonials about their personal journeys and the positive impact of peer mentorship. “The support I received made all the difference,” said Lubguban. “It helped me feel at home and confident in navigating both the system and the culture.”
The event brought together Embassy officials, PNAMDC officers, and members of the Filipino-American community in a show of unity and encouragement. Seated in front were key figures including Second Secretary and Consul Mark Dominic E. Lim, Labor Attaché Saul T. De Vries, and PNAMDC Secretary Maricon Dans, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines this initiative.
As the U.S. continues to face a healthcare workforce shortage, the contributions of internationally educated Filipino nurses are more vital than ever. Through programs like PNAMDC’s Ate & Kuya and the support of the Philippine Embassy, these nurses are not only being welcomed—they’re being empowered.
Contributors:
- Embassy Press and Information Section
- Philippine Nurses Association of Metropolitan DC, Inc. (PNAMDC)
- Featured Speakers: Minister and Consul General Donna M. Rodriguez, PNAMDC President Christine Pabico, Hazel Lubguban, Fern Garcia
Official Source:
Philippine Embassy – Washington, D.C.
https://philippineembassy-dc.org/ph-embassy-pnamdc-welcomes-internationally-educated-filipino-nurses/
Organization Website:
Philippine Nurses Association of Metropolitan DC
https://pnamdc.org
