Nursing is one of the most noble and trusted professions in the world. Filipino nurses are recognized globally for their compassion, skill, and resilience. They serve in hospitals, communities, and homes—often going beyond the call of duty to care for the sick, the senior citizens, and the vulnerable. In the Philippines, the nursing sector has been a cornerstone of both our public health system and our global reputation for quality healthcare.

At its core, nursing is integral to healthcare. It is essential in the care aspect of human health and well-being—where science, empathy, and service come together. It is not a profession defined by beauty, gender, or surface-level attributes. Rather, it is defined by commitment, competence, and the heart to serve others. 

Recently, deeply inappropriate remarks were made during a campaign rally regarding a government-funded nursing scholarship program. The statements suggested that the scholarship is only intended for “beautiful women,” excluding not only men but also women who do not meet a superficial standard of appearance. These comments are not only offensive—they are dangerous and discriminatory. They reduce nursing, a highly technological and emotionally demanding field, into a matter of looks rather than merit, passion, and service. 

Such genderized and appearance-based healthcare practices have no place in a country of intelligent and well-informed citizenry. Filipinos deserve a healthcare system grounded in fairness, integrity, and inclusiveness—where every aspiring nurse is given an equal opportunity to study, grow, and serve, regardless of how they look or identify. 

We call on concerned government agencies, educational institutions, and community leaders to:

1. Ensure that all nursing scholarships—especially those funded by public money—are inclusive, fair, and based on clear educational and service-oriented criteria.
2. Uphold the dignity of the nursing profession and condemn any public statements or policies that trivialize or stereotype the role of nurses.
3. Support aspiring nurses from all backgrounds—regardless of gender or appearance—so they can contribute to the healing and care of our nation. 

Call to Action:

Sign this petition to protect the integrity of nursing. Let us show the world that Filipinos value substance over spectacle, and that we believe in equal opportunity, especially for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

Professor Rozzano Locsin, RN, PhD, FAAN
Faustino Jerome G. Babate, RN, MBA, PhD, LCLP
Rudolf Cymorr Kirby P. Martinez, PhD, MA, RN, CGNC, CNE, SGAHN, FFNMRCSI
Ryan Michael F. Oducado, RN, PhD
Annabelle Borromeo, RN, PhD.     
Marilou P. Furio, RN, PhD
Rosana Grace Belo-Delariarte, RN, EdD
Harby Abellanosa, RN, MSN, FPSQUA,FPCHA,CESE
Fely Marilyn Lorenzo, RN DrPh
Melvin Miranda, RN,MAN
Melbert Reyes,RN,PhD
Elmer Bondoc, RN, PhD
Jonathan Rey B. Sulayao, RN,MAN 

Pearl Ed G. Cuevas, PhD MAN RN FGNLA
Aris Kendell Bungabong, RN, PhD