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'Courage and sacrifice' of Filipino nurses praised

Alex PopeBedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire
News imageLuton & Dunstable University Hospital A group of Filipino nurses standing outside, what looks like a car park, they are all leaning over and smiling. One man to the right has his hands up. They are all wearing coats and warm clothing. Luton & Dunstable University Hospital
The nurses arrived in the UK in January 2001

A group of Filipino nursing staff who came to work at a hospital 25 years ago have been celebrated for their "courage and sacrifice".

About 20 men and women arrived in the UK on 15 January 2001 to start their careers at the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital.

The hospital said they had "served patients and families with dedication and excellence through changing times and countless challenges".

Marites Remo, a senior sister in the trauma and orthopaedic fracture clinic, said it was proof that "dedication, opportunity, and resilience make dreams possible".

News imageLuton & Dunstable University Hospital Seven nurses holding blue fans, smiling and looking at the camera. They all have a black top on with pearl necklaces on and colourful skirts. They are standing by a grey building. Luton & Dunstable University Hospital
The nurses are proud to show off their heritage and traditions

Christine Tuazon, the site team operations manager, said: "This milestone stands as a testament to resilience, professionalism, and an enduring commitment to the values of nursing."

Jocelyn Simon Garchitorena, lead nurse diabetes and endocrinology, said she was proud of all their achievements - and in August 2024 was awarded "individual of the month".

"I am thankful for the support of colleagues across the trust and proud to contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and excellence for our patients," she said.

Vilma Ramos, diabetes specialist nurse, said: "We have had a wonderful journey and have worked with some amazing people, caring for them, and have had our lives touched along the way."

News imageLuton & Dunstable University Hospital A group of nurses, all wearing blue NHS outfits, with name labels on, in a hospital room. They have their arms up and are laughing and smiling. A skeleton is to the left, two are sitting on chairs and they are by a cubical. Luton & Dunstable University Hospital
Marites Remo with the orthopaedics team she manages

Remo added: "Through dedication, perseverance, and continuous learning, I progressed from theatre nurse to senior sister in theatres, gained my Surgical First Assistant qualification, and now have the privilege of managing the trauma and orthopaedic centre, working with a dedicated team committed to excellence in patient care.

"This is proof that dedication, opportunity, and resilience make dreams possible."

News imageLuton & Dunstable University Hospital Ten nurses, sitting on steps by a building, with a cannon at the top. They are on a trop to Malta, and are smiling and looking at the camera. They are wearing trainers and casual clothing. Luton & Dunstable University Hospital
The nurses enjoying a trip together in Malta

The hospital said: "Your story is one of pride, strength, and lasting impact.

"Our Filipino nurses' journey reflects courage, sacrifice, and unwavering professionalism far from home, while still being deeply rooted in care."

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