Official Statement of the Alliance of Young Nurse Leaders and Advocates International, Inc.

(AYNLA) on Cynthia Villars Response on GMA 7s Pagsubok ng Mga Kandidato The Alliance of Young Nurse Leaders and Advocates, Inc., an organization that has continuously fought to uplift the status of Nursing as a profession and the working conditions and the morale of Filipino nurses, condemns the response of Former Congresswoman Cynthia Villar on GMA 7s Pagsubok ng Mga Kandidato on the 23rd of February. The Alliance believes that such response was calloused, derogatory, and is a manifestation of the dwindling respect for Filipino nurses and the profession of Nursing. The Alliance believes that nurses are essential part of health human resource not only in areas of clinical expertise but also in community development, policy-making and nation building. It is evident, though, that regardless of the setting, nurses will always work with peoples lives. This is why the Alliance believes that, contrary to Mrs. Villars statement, nurses do need to be competent, safe, and efficient in their practice. Mediocrity in the nursing profession must not be condoned. The statement the congresswoman made seems to be a blatant disregard to the need of proper education and emphasis on competency. This has offended the nursing community gravely. In the spirit of proper communication and despite AYNLAs disapproval of Mrs. Villars answer, the Alliance is open to dialogue with the former congresswoman in order to give her opportunity to clarify her statements, which she had been unable to do during the television program. The Alliance believes that proper communication is the solution to settle conflicts. However, despite the Alliances openness to a dialogue, it remains to be a non-partisan organization. The Alliance, thus, would neither endorse nor campaign against Mrs. Villar in the May 2013 elections. The Alliance shall show support to those who will further the issues of nurses and strengthen the professions social force. The Alliance leaves the decision of the vote to the Filipino nurses, believing in their capability to vote wisely electoral candidates who shall further uplift the profession of Nursing.

The Alliance Board of Trustees | AYNLA FISCAL YEAR 2012-2015 Chairperson Nr. Alvin Cloyd Dakis Vice-Chairperson Nr. Reigner Jireh Antiquera Corporate Secretary Nr. Jonathan Monis Corporate Treasurer Nr. Janina Gillian Santos Corporate Auditor Nr. Ma. Kristina Siuagan Trustees-At-Large Nr. Norman Solamo Nr. Luigi Guzman Nr. Mary Junnillee Arano Nr. John Paul Patriarca