By Frances Batara, StratCom Correspondent

Dr. Elmer Santos, faculty member of the MMSU Department of Nursing, received the Gawad Huwarang Nars ng Bayan Award (Nursing Education Category) from the Philippine Nurses Association, Inc. (PNA) Region I during the 10th Philippine Nurses Association Regional Convention on September 28 at Farmer’s Livelihood Training Center, Vigan City. He will compete at the national level on October 22-23 at  Manila Hotel, Metro Manila. 

The award serves as a recognition for professional nurses who have positively impacted various individuals, families, and communities. Applicants were evaluated accordingly regarding their significant contribution to society and the nursing profession, emphasizing creativity and innovation, project sustainability, and the 5Cs of professional caring: competence, commitment, compassion, confidence, and conscience. 

Dr. Santos has been a nurse educator for over two decades across various nursing colleges in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. He holds a degree in Doctor of Education in Educational Management and Master of Arts in Nursing, major in Maternal and Child Nursing. Currently, he handles courses in nursing leadership and management, community health nursing, and nursing research. 

Inspired to transform young minds into nurses, Dr. Santos shared how the values of an Ilocano have encouraged him to serve his community. “Beyond the classroom setting, we serve the community to complement health services without additional incentives. Hence, nursing educators should be innovative, resilient, and altruistic,” he expressed.  

Founded in 1922, PNA fosters professional growth and upholds the highest standards of nursing. It was recognized as the Most Outstanding Accredited Professional Organization by the Professional Regulation Commission.