Commission on Filipinos Overseas

03/11/2026

From a farmer's son in Iloilo to a royal appointee in the UK, Dr. Jose Ariel Espulgar Lañada’s journey is the definition of resilience.

In 2002, he made the bold decision to leave his position as an acting chief nurse in the Philippines to start completely over as a healthcare support worker in Britain. Over the next two decades, he steadily climbed the ranks of the NHS—moving from critical care into nurse education and leadership.

Today, Dr. Lañada leads nursing practice development and education in Oxford and fiercely champions internationally educated healthcare workers across the UK. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, he was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire in 2022, serving as a ceremonial representative to the Crown.

Read his inspiring success story on The Global Filipino Magazine

In 2002, a farmer’s son from Iloilo left his post as acting chief nurse of a Philippine hospital to start over in the United Kingdom as a healthcare support worker.

Dr. Jose Ariel Espulgar Lañada arrived with years of intensive care experience, but in Britain he had to prove himself all over again.

Over the next two decades, he climbed the ranks of the country’s public health service, moving from critical care to diabetes nursing and, eventually, nurse education.

Today he leads practice development and education for a hospital division in Oxford and champions internationally educated nurses across the UK.

In 2022, he was named a Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, an honorary role assisting the monarch’s representative in the county.

Read: https://theglobalfilipinomagazine.com/pinoy-nurse-who-began-as-uk-hospital-aide-now-holds-honorary-royal-post-in-oxfordshire/

03/11/2026

The Philippine Nurses Association of Maryland Chapter (PNAMC) has officially welcomed Kevin Sowers, MSN, RN, FAAN, President of The Johns Hopkins Health System, as its newest Honorary Member.

This historic partnership was spearheaded by Dr. Sheilla Cataluna Membrebe, Immediate Past President of PNAMC, as part of the chapter's ongoing commitment to building meaningful healthcare alliances. Welcoming a leader of this caliber strengthens the PNAMC legacy and empowers Filipino-American nurses by unlocking new opportunities for professional collaboration and community impact.

A Warm PNA Maryland Chapter (PNAMC) welcome to an Extraordinary Leader!

The PNAMC is honored and delighted to welcome KEVIN SOWERS, MSN, RN, FAAN- President of The Johns Hopkins Health Systems, as one of our esteemed Honorary Members!

This meaningful connection was made possible through the initiative of Dr. Sheilla Cataluna Membrebe, Immediate Past President of PNAMC, whose vision, leadership, and commitment to building meaningful partnerships continue to create opportunities for our organization and its members.

What a privilege to welcome a distinguished healthcare leader whose contribution to nursing and healthcare leadership continue to inspire excellence and make a difference in the lives of others.

Having a leader of his caliber as part of our PNAMC Family is truly an honor. His presence reminds us of the power of collaboration, shared purpose, and our collective commitment to advancing the nursing profession.

We look forward to building bridges, strengthening partnerships, empowering Filipino-American nurses, and creating meaningful opportunities that extend our impact beyond our chapter and into the communities we serve.

Because leadership is not just about recognition—it is about inspiring others, opening doors, and making a lasting difference.

Welcome to the PNAMC Family, Kevin Sowers! We are grateful to have you as part of our journey!

And to Dr. Sheilla Membrebe, thank you for continuing to open doors and build connections that strengthen the PNAMC legacy!

03/11/2026

In a viral new Facebook video titled "Filipino breakfast consist of two things...", comedian Jo Koy breaks down the anatomy of a traditional Pinoy breakfast.

With his signature humor, he explains to his audience that the staple breakfast choice—Bangsilog—is a combination of two powerhouse favorites: bangus (fried milkfish) and itlog (fried egg), layered over a bed of perfect garlic fried rice. 😋 🐟🥚

03/11/2026

The READ Philippines Halloween Party for a Cause brought high energy and vibrant crowds to Maharlika Grill for a memorable night of dancing and community celebration.

Guests turned out in full force to support the charitable cause, transforming the venue into a lively dance floor filled with festive Halloween spirit.

03/11/2026

Isabelino Ako Organization, Inc. – Abu Dhabi Chapter officially celebrated its 11th founding anniversary on October 31, 2026, marking over a decade of unity and community service.

Led by Chapter President Mr. Emmanuel M. Madayag, the milestone event gathered Filipino community leaders, embassy diplomats, and representatives from 18 partner organizations across the UAE. Highlights of the evening included the formal presentation of the Outstanding Organization Award 2026 by the Bayanihan Awards Committee, an oath-taking ceremony for new members, and special musical performances.

Isang dekada at isang taon ng matatag na pagkakaisa at serbisyo sa komunidad!

Ipinagdiwang ng Isabelino Ako Organization, Inc. – Abu Dhabi Chapter ang kanilang ika-11 founding anniversary kasama ang mga pinuno ng iba't ibang Filipino organizations at mga kinatawan mula sa embahada.

Basahin ang buong detalye at mga highlights dito https://filipinotimes.net/community-news/2026/11/02/isabelino-ako-organization-inc-abu-dhabi-chapter-marks-11th-founding-anniversary/

03/11/2026

| November 3, 2026

Kasama sina Ares Gutierrez at Jirus Madlangbayan

Charles Andrew Sulla

‎
‎


‎
‎
‎
‎
‎
‎


‎
‎
‎

03/11/2026

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) extends its warmest congratulations to Angela Mormando on receiving the Young Entrepreneur Award at the FILAMCCNC 5th Anniversary Gala!

For nine years, Angela has been vital to the growth of Catherine Ann’s Filipino-American Grill & Sweets, mastering daily operations alongside her sister to preserve their family legacy. While balancing her family business duties, she excels academically as an Accounting major at Appalachian State University, maintaining Dean’s List standing and Magna Cum Laude candidacy.

By directly applying her financial and accounting studies to handle payroll, books, and daily management for the restaurant, Angela embodies the dedication, leadership, and resilience of our global Filipino youth.

We are proud of your achievements, Angela! 🇵🇭✨

Hue congratulations to our Awardee, Angela Mormando.

Catherine Ann’s Filipino-American Grill & Sweets carries a special meaning, with its name honoring Catherine and Angela. For the past nine years, Angela has been an integral part of the business’s growth, witnessing its journey from the ground up while actively contributing to its daily operations. Working alongside her sister, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility in helping sustain and grow their family-owned business. Her firsthand experience reflects her passion for entrepreneurship and her commitment to building upon the family’s legacy.

Angela is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, at Appalachian State University, with an expected graduation date of May 2027. Her academic achievements include being named to the Dean’s List and earning candidacy for Magna Cum Laude honors. Through her education, Angela continues to develop the business knowledge, analytical skills, and financial expertise essential to becoming a successful entrepreneur and business leader.

Putting her education into practice, Angela takes an active role in managing the financial aspects of the family business, including accounting, payroll, and account management. She applies the knowledge and skills gained through her academic studies to real-world business operations, helping support the company’s financial organization and day-to-day management. Her ability to balance her academic responsibilities while contributing meaningfully to the family enterprise demonstrates initiative, practical leadership, and the qualities of a promising young entrepreneur.

03/11/2026

📢 The SoCal Filipinos Student Alliance (SFSA) High School Student Leadership Summit is coming this February 2027, in partnership with Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA)!

This exciting summit brings together high school students from across Southern California to build powerful leadership skills, create lifelong friendships, and empower the next generation of Fil-Am leaders. 🌟

Want to be the first to get updates on registration and exclusive opportunities? Make sure you are registered in the SFSA Directory!

The SoCal Filipinos Student Alliance (SFSA) High School Student Leadership Summit is coming in February 2027, in partnership with SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans)!

This exciting event will bring together high school students from across Southern California to connect, build leadership skills, develop friendships, and empower the next generation of Filipino American leaders.

Want to be among the first to receive updates about the summit, registration, and other opportunities specifically for high school students?

📲 Make sure you’re registered in the SoCal Filipinos Student Alliance Directory! This is how we’ll keep high school students informed about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities.

👇 COMMENT “SFSA” BELOW and we’ll send you the link to join the directory!

✅ Make sure you’re following us and have your DMs open so we can send you the information.

03/11/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Blaise Nieve for being honored with the Distinguished Healthcare Professional Award at the 5th Anniversary Celebration Gala & Awards Night of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of North Carolina (FILAMCCNC)!

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) celebrates Dr. Nieve’s remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to excellence. As a Clinical Nurse IV at Duke University Hospital and a 2025 North Carolina Great 100 Nurses honoree, he embodies the highest standards of compassionate care and patient safety.

Grounded deeply in his Filipino roots, Dr. Nieve continues to uplift his colleagues, mentor the next generation, and make a profound impact on global healthcare.

Mabuhay! 🇵🇭✨

Huge congratulations to our Awardee, Dr. Blaise Nieve.

Dr. Blaise Nieve is a Clinical Nurse IV at Duke University Hospital and a 2025 North Carolina Great 100 Nurses honoree, recognized for his dedication to compassionate patient care and patient safety.
A nurse leader, educator, and researcher with two doctoral degrees, he serves in national and international nursing leadership roles, including Treasurer and Director of the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board (MSNCB). He also advocates for Filipino and internationally educated nurses.
Grounded in his Filipino roots, Blaise is known for his humility, compassion, and dedication to mentoring others, uplifting colleagues, and making a meaningful difference in healthcare and his community.