President-elect candidate(s)

one position open

Gemma Banaag  BSN, MSN, MBA-HCM

Candidate for President-Elect Position

A member of PNASD since 1991, Gemma has served as the Newsletter Editor in the early ‘90’s and as the PRO, “I grew up in PNASD” is a quote she says as her way of letting all know how PNASD has helped shape her nursing career. With 39 years of Nursing experience, Gemma has held numerous roles / jobs in nursing: from a staff nurse, Charge nurse, Nurse Liaison, Educator, Director, and in 2011 Gemma was appointed as Chief Nursing Officer for Paradise Valley Hospital, a role she still enjoys to this day. Gemma and her team have had the opportunity to implement key strategies for the community to help improve quality and safety of care for the underserved community of National City, earning Paradise Valley Hospital the 100 Top Hospital Award by Truven, in 2014 and 2015. The Joint Commission has also recognized PVH as a Top Performer for 5 years in a row, Grade A Leapfrog recipient for 11 consecutive grading sessions. With the latest recognition by Forbes as Top Hospital in 2026.

Recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as Women Hospital and Health System to Know in 2016 and 2018, Gemma is actively engaged in organizations that allows her to connect the frontline nurses with people who need and may benefit from healthcare whether they are in the Hospital or the community. Through Community and Professional engagement, Gemma’s goal is to optimize Nursing practice from the bedside to the Board Room. Gemma’s vision is for PNASD to be at the right table at the right time when healthcare decisions are being made: “As the most trusted profession Nurses ought to be in the frontlines of every Healthcare plat form. PNASD will fuel this vision to get more nurses be the strongest influence in Healthcare”.

Cris Escarilla MSN, BSN, RN

Candidate for President-Elect Position

My name is Maria Cristina Escarrilla. I was born in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. I have 5 siblings and I am the eldest daughter. I have 3 children, a daughter and 2 sons. I have 3 grandchildren, the loves of my life. I went to nursing school at a time when we have to stay in the dormitory.

My husband and I love to travel with my college buddies all over the world. I love to cook and tend to my garden, but I don’t think I have a green thumb. As for my nursing journey, I’ve held different leadership positions throughout the years from Charge Nurse, Medical Office Administrator, Director of Complete Care Management and Patient Education at Kaiser Permanente, and Director of Nursing at San Ysidro Health.

Currently, I am one of the Board of Directors for PNASD. Helping with our mission in the  community and mentoring new nurses through the PNAA’s iLDP and P3 program. As for my goals, if I get elected as President- elect, I will uphold the values of our association, engage our members, and ensure that we are financially able to sustain all our projects and community obligations.

“Lead with compassion, Inspire with integrity, and empower every nurse to make difference.”

recording secretary candidate(s)

one position open

Geline Buenconsejo, PhD, APRN-CNS, NEA-BC, PCCN-K

Candidate for Secretary Position

With more than 2 decades of nursing experience, Geline is currently the Critical Care Services Manager at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center responsible for overseeing the MICU, SICU, RRT and Step-Down Unit. She worked as a Clinical Nurse Specialist for Critical Care Services at Sharp Grossmont Hospital, Kaiser Permanente San Diego and Sharp Chula Vista

Medical Center for many years. Completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Research at the University of San Diego, obtained her Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult-Gerontology from Point Loma Nazarene University, MSN degree from University of Phoenix and BSN from Iloilo Doctors’ College, Philippines.

Geline is well recognized throughout local and national CNS community for multiple podium and poster presentations as she disseminated knowledge at local and national conferences. She received multiple recognitions including the 2021 National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists Evidence-Based Practice/ Quality Improvement of the Year Award, Dean Barbara Taylor Spirit of Inquiry Award, EBP Institute Dissemination Award from San Diego Consortium for Excellence in Nursing and Allied Health , Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center Transformational Leader Award, Best Professional Advancement of Frontline Caregivers Award and other numerous Sharp Healthcare CORE and PILLAR awards for Quality, Safety, Finance and Growth.

treasurer candidate(s)

one position open

Veronica S. Timple, PhD, RN, CCRN

Candidate for Treasurer Position

Veronica Timple is a nurse scientist and experienced leader dedicated to advancing nursing practice while ensuring strong organizational stewardship. With a background in research, academia, and clinical leadership, she brings strategic thinking, integrity, and financial accountability to every role she serves. She has led several research initiatives, managed grant-funded projects, and overseen program budgets, demonstrating fiscal responsibility, transparency, and thoughtful resource allocation. Her work in evidence-based practice and nurse well-being reflects disciplined planning and responsible financial management to maximize impact. Veronica recognizes that sound fiscal leadership is essential to sustaining programs, supporting members, and advancing the mission of the association.

Actively engaged in the profession, Veronica is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, the Transcultural Nursing Society, the Society of Internationally Educated Nurses, the Philippine Nurses Association of America, ANA, AONL, AACN, and ACNL. She currently serves for the second year as a mentor in the PNAA P3 Mentorship Program. She is also an active member of the PNA San Diego chapter’s Research and EBP, Marketing, Education, and Scholarship and Nurse Excellence Committees.

As a Treasurer candidate, Veronica is committed to transparency, prudent financial oversight,and responsible stewardship to ensure the continued growth and stability of PNASD and its members.

auditor candidate(s)

one position open

Alex Mayo, BSN, RN

Candidate for Auditor Position

Alex Mayo is an Internationally Educated RN from the Philippines. He worked in several nursing facilities and hospitals in San Diego and Orange County. He had been working as a nurse in behavioral health and CNA adjunct instructor for almost two decades. With his mental health experience, he was asked to be a clinical instructor of associate degree in nursing students from Southwestern College for psychiatric health rotation for the past five years, bringing students to UCSD Hillcrest, Sharp Mesa Vista and Paradise Valley Hospitals. 

With his contributions in teaching, he was awarded the PNASD Nurse Educator of the Year 2025 and as a clinical nurse awarded Sharp Mesa Vista C.O.R.E. (Center of Recognized Excellence) under Service Pillar 2025.

He is an active member of PNASD contributing to the following committees: Nurse Excellence, Ethics and Bylaws. As well as Mental Health and TB task force. Lastly, he is also a member of the UCSD/PNASD Research Team. 

board of directors candidate(s)

six positions open

Perly Aguinaldo, BSN, RN

Candidate for Board of Director Position

Born to parents who migrated to Manila in pursuit of better educational opportunities, I learned early on  the value of sacrifice, perseverance, and service. I am a proud product of the Philippine public school system and earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila while maintaining my scholarship despite extreme financial hardship. These early challenges shaped my resilience and deep commitment to community.

Shortly after graduation, I migrated to the United States in search of greater opportunity and began my nursing career in a small community hospital. Through dedication and passion for excellence, I advanced into Open Heart ICU nursing at University of Maryland. After several years of   “wearing several hats”( as educator , administrator) caring for the most critically ill patients became my true calling. Alongside nursing, I expanded my leadership experience through real estate investment and entrepreneurship.

My journey with the Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego dates back in 2007. Holding  different leadership positions gave me a deeper  understanding of  its mission, vision and goals and a commitment to service .

Serving as President from 2022–2024 and continuing for  two years as one of the Board of Directors strengthened my commitment to leadership, mentorship, and innovation. I seek to continue serving as Board of Director. I believe that remaining at the “table “with emerging young leaders, building bridges across generations, will  help  shape a stronger, more forward-focused future for PNASD  and the nursing profession.

CDR (Ret) Reggie Cagampan, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC

Candidate for Board of Director Position

Nurse Manager | Pediatric Nurse Practitioner | Healthcare Leader

Commander Reggie Cagampan is a distinguished retired United States Naval Officer whose 20-year career is defined by a steadfast commitment to service, clinical excellence, and leadership under pressure. As a Navy Nurse Corps Officer, he expertly bridged the gap between complex medical care and global military operations, ensuring the readiness of Sailors and Marines worldwide.

Following his spectacular naval career, his expertise was sought by the Defense Health Agency, where he currently serves as the Nurse Manager for the Primary Care Pediatric Clinics and 10 Sub-specialty Clinics with residency program. He continues his clinical practice as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

A pillar of the Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego (PNASD) since 2019, CDR Cagampan serves on the 2024–26 Board of Directors. His leadership philosophy centers on empowerment, excellence, and an inspiration to serve. He has held pivotal roles, including Auditor (2022–24) and Chair of the Ethics, 47th PNASD Anniversary Dinner Gala, Nurses Week, and Nurse Excellence Award Committees. He is a consummate member of the By-Laws, Logistics, and Hospitality committees. He remains instrumental in local and global community outreach, dedicated to advancing the strategic goals of the nursing profession.

Melanie Cuaresma, BSN, RN

Candidate for Board of Director Position

I’m honored to be nominated and running for a position on the Board of Directors for our professional PNASD organization. My unique background and experience serving over 10 years as an officer and Board Member for a private, for-profit organization as well as more than six years in a national, public not-for-profit Officer and Board as multiple roles has given me experience with a wide scope. As a small business and entrepreneur owner of 20 years, I’ve led the daily operations of a successful business as well as strategizing and planning to achieve short- and long-term growth and success for the future. Core skills included fundraising, event planning and volunteer coordination. I pride myself in successfully working in collaboration with general members, volunteers and leaders to work towards the organization's mission. I was honored to receive the PNASD Clinical Nurse Excellence Award in 2024. This will be my 4th year as an officer for PNASD and have been active on the Ethics and Mental Health and Wellness Committees.

With 18 years as an ICU nurse, I’ve honed my skills in triaging, prioritizing and taking action for issues within nursing and in daily life. It has also helped to shape me into being a calm leader, focusing on cultivating an entire forest, whilst listening and appreciating every tree of the forest. I hope you will entrust me in helping continue to lead PNASD into an even greater, more successful, inclusive, professional organization.

Razel B. Milo PhD, DNP, FNP-C, AAOPM-BC 

Candidate for Board of Director Position

It is with a deep sense of commitment to our professional community that I submit my candidacy for the PNASD Board of Directors. Having served as your Research Chair, I have seen firsthand the incredible intellectual capital within our association. My platform for the Board is built on the integration of Leadership, Research, and Education to elevate the professional standing of every PNASD member.

Since 2011, I have dedicated myself to nursing education, mentoring students from BSN to PhD levels. This academic foundation, combined with my leadership as Research Chair, has allowed me to bridge the gap between clinical practice and scholarly inquiry. As a member of the DEI community, I believe leadership must be inclusive and forward-thinking. On the Board, I intend to build upon my work as Research Chair by expanding our scholarly initiatives, fostering a culture of evidence-based leadership, and ensuring that PNASD remains at the forefront of educational innovation in San Diego. I ask for your vote to continue serving this organization with the same passion and dedication I have brought to our research community.

Hilario “Nio” Noveno, PhD, MSN, NP-C, APRN 

Candidate for Board of Director Position

Elevating nursing practice through caring leadership, meaningful service, and academic rigor.

Dr. Noveno is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner at UCSD Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, known for his clinical excellence, compassionate care, and dedication to advancing patient outcomes. A committed member of the Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego (PNASD) since 2016, he has strengthened the organization through key leadership roles. As Assistant Treasurer (2024–2026), he introduced standardized budget systems that improved financial planning and approval processes. He has led multiple I Love A Clean San Diego clean‑up drives and chaired major PNASD initiatives, including the Mental Health Program, the 2024 Picnic, Threads of Heritage (2026), and Joy of Colors, the PNASD 52nd Anniversary Celebration (2026). His service has earned him the PNASD Nurse Excellence Awards in Education (2018) and   Community Service (2024).

Dr. Noveno authored Nurses and Their Caring Behaviours and has presented internationally. His academic leadership includes serving as Dean of St. Anthony College of Calapan and leading curriculum development at the University of Tabuk.

Emeline Yabut, MSN, RN

Candidate for Board of Director Position

Emeline Yabut is the President of the Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego (PNASD), where she leads with passion, service, and a deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession and Filipino nurse leadership in the community. With 13 years of dedicated service in PNASD, she has played a vital role in strengthening the organization through advocacy, professional development, and community engagement.

Under her leadership, PNASD continues to promote excellence in nursing education, mentorship, and cultural unity among its members. Yabut is widely respected for her ability to inspire collaboration and empower nurses to become leaders in healthcare and education.

In recognition of her impact, she received the “Bayani ng Mundo” Award in 2022 from the Philippine Nurses Association of America , honoring her outstanding service locally and globally. She was also named Nurse Educator of the Year in 2024 by the  Filipino American Business Development , reflecting her dedication to teaching, curriculum development, and mentoring future nurses.

As President, Emeline Yabut champions initiatives that enhance professional growth, community service, and ethical leadership. Her vision continues to elevate PNASD’s mission while inspiring nurses to serve with competence, compassion, and pride in their profession.