By: Ms. Justine Grace Pugong
Baguio Central University College of Nursing and School of Midwifery (CNSM), participated in the 18th Regional Nursing Congress on April 12, 2025, at the St. Tonis Colleges, Inc. Gymnasium in Bulanao, Tabuk City, Kalinga. Organized by the Cordillera Association of Nursing Deans, the congress gathered fourth-year nursing students, clinical instructors, and student leaders from various institutions across the Cordillera Administrative Region under the theme, “Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses with a Strong Foundation of Frontline Readiness.”
The congress featured three keynote speakers who discussed essential aspects of nursing practice and professional development. Madame Wireen Leila Dator, RN, DNS, explored the challenges of a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) healthcare environment, emphasizing technological advancement, ethical use of artificial intelligence, adaptability, and leadership. Madame Celvir Grace Bangcaya, RN, MSN, highlighted holistic patient care and the importance of emotional intelligence, continuous learning, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and professional ethics in preparing future nurses for frontline responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Mr. Alfred O. Fomocao, RN, MAN, Dean of the College of Nursing at Mountain Province State University, discussed mental health and well-being among nursing students and healthcare professionals. He emphasized resilience, self-care, and emotional awareness as essential components of effective and compassionate nursing practice. An interactive session also encouraged students to share their reflections and strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout.
The congress provided BCU nursing students with valuable insights into the evolving demands of the nursing profession, reinforcing the importance of clinical competence, ethical responsibility, adaptability, and personal well-being. Each keynote presentation concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing the speakers’ contributions to the event.
Through its participation, BCU reaffirmed its commitment to preparing competent, compassionate, and resilient future healthcare professionals. The congress aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by emphasizing mental health awareness and holistic care; SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting professional learning and the development of essential nursing competencies; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by bringing together nursing institutions, educators, and student leaders to strengthen collaboration and advance nursing education across the Cordillera region.
