Upcoming This June 2026

I am deeply honored to serve as President of the Philippine Nurses’ Association of San Diego (PNASD) from 2024 to 2026, a responsibility I accepted with humility, gratitude, and a profound sense of purpose. This term coincides with a historic milestone—PNASD’s 50th Anniversary—reminding us that our present work is inseparable from the sacrifices, leadership, and vision of those who have guided this organization since its founding in 1974.

During our Golden Anniversary celebration on June 22, 2024, we did more than commemorate the past. By organizing the anniversary parade and the tribute video honoring all past PNASD Presidents, we affirmed our shared identity and continuity. That moment symbolized who we are as a PNASD Family—grounded in legacy, strengthened by unity, and committed to the future.

Where PNASD Stands Today

As a direct result of the initiatives undertaken during this term, PNASD stands today as a visible, trusted, and influential professional organization—both within San Diego and beyond. Our voice has grown stronger in civic, academic, and healthcare spaces, reflecting the leadership capacity of Filipino nurses and the communities we serve.

One of the most meaningful milestones during this term has been PNASD’s presence and advocacy surrounding the naming of the first Filipino American Veterans Park in Chula Vista. This historic recognition honors the sacrifices of Filipino American veterans and affirms the long-standing contributions of Filipino communities to public service, healthcare, and nation-building. PNASD’s involvement in this moment reflects our commitment to cultural recognition, historical justice, and civic engagement.

Advancing Mental Health, Research, and Education

Since July 2024, PNASD has led the implementation of a Mental Health Research Project in collaboration with the University of San Diego, now progressing through its second IRB review. At a time when nurses face unprecedented emotional strain, workplace stress, and moral injury, this initiative positions PNASD as both an advocate and a contributor to evidence-based solutions that protect the nursing workforce and strengthen healthcare systems.

Professional education remains a cornerstone of our mission. Throughout this term, PNASD has delivered educational programming addressing current and emerging trends in healthcare, clinical practice, leadership, and workforce resilience. These efforts ensure our members remain informed, empowered, and prepared to navigate an evolving healthcare landscape shaped by policy changes, workforce shortages, and increasing patient complexity.

Community Engagement and Environmental Stewardship

Our commitment to community engagement has remained consistent and intentional. From participation in local health fairs and multicultural events to blood pressure screenings and partnerships with hospitals and community organizations, PNASD continues to meet people where they are—providing care, education, and advocacy grounded in cultural humility and service.

Environmental stewardship has also remained a priority, recognizing that environmental health is inseparable from human health. On October 10, PNASD joined community efforts centered on environmental awareness and climate responsibility, reinforcing our role as healthcare professionals committed to sustainable, forward-thinking solutions that protect present and future generations.

Investing in the Future of Nursing

Supporting nursing students and recognizing excellence remain among the most meaningful outcomes of this term. By June 2025, PNASD awarded over $20,000 in scholarships and honored outstanding nurses through the Nurse Excellence Awards. These investments reflect our belief that nurturing future leaders and celebrating excellence are essential to sustaining the profession.

Our global commitment continues through initiatives such as Balik Aklatan, which resulted in the donation of over 500 nursing textbooks to Luzon, Philippines, in December 2025. In January 2026, PNASD extended humanitarian support through a financial donation to Typhoon Dino victims in Cebu City, followed by a medical mission in Sinabakan, Zambales, reaffirming our responsibility to serve beyond borders.

Responding to Today’s Sociopolitical Climate

This presidency has unfolded during a period of significant sociopolitical challenge. Nurses today face staffing shortages, policy uncertainty, workplace violence, and widening health inequities, while communities contend with climate change, economic pressures, and global instability. PNASD has responded by strengthening advocacy, expanding partnerships with minority nursing organizations, and amplifying the collective voice of Filipino nurses in healthcare and civic spaces.

Through collaboration, research, education, and service, PNASD continues to stand for dignity, equity, and the well-being of both nurses and the communities we serve.

Moving Forward Together

Everything achieved during this term has been made possible by the dedication, generosity, and shared vision of the PNASD Family—board members, volunteers, partners, mentors, students, and members who believe in our mission.

As we move forward, I encourage continued engagement, mentorship, and leadership development as we zero-in-on-five—our PNASD Empowering IDEAS. Together, we honor our past, respond with courage to the present, and prepare intentionally for the future.

With gratitude and unwavering dedication,

Emeline Yabut-Cruz, MSN-Ed, BSN, RN
President, Philippine Nurses’ Association of San Diego (2024–2026)