20 November 2025

This month marks a remarkable milestone for our Trust as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of welcoming the first group of Filipino nurses to our organisation.

Since the first cohort arrived in 2000, Filipino nurses have become an important part of the PHU community. Recognised for their kindness, care and compassion, over 550 nurses and healthcare professionals work at Queen Alexandra Hospital and many from that pioneering group continue to serve at QA today which is a true testament to the commitment and passion they share for their profession.

Hayley Peters, Chief Nurse at PHU, said: “Celebrating 25 years of our nursing colleagues from the Philippines is a truly special moment. Their courage to leave home, adapt to a new country, and dedicate themselves so fully to caring for others is inspiring. Hearing about their growth, achievements and the strong sense of belonging they’ve built here has been incredibly moving.”

Today, international colleagues make up a significant proportion of our workforce, with staff from countries across the world enriching the hospital and local communities and playing a vital role in the delivery of safe, high-quality, and compassionate care.

To mark this anniversary, members of that first 2000 cohort at Queen Alexandra Hospital have shared their reflections on their 25-year journey.

Dovy R Domingo, Respiratory Sleep Nurse Specialist: “I arrived in July 2000 and began my journey in Elderly Medicine before moving into Critical Care where I spent 22 years. Every challenge has taught me resilience and gratitude. The friendships, the teamwork, and the privilege of caring for patients and families has shaped who I am. I’m proud to now call Britain home, carrying with me the values of both my Filipino roots and my life here and we are privileged to be recognized for our contribution, and we remain proud to serve the community with compassion, resilience, and excellence.

Blanquita Andaya, Haematology Clinical Nurse Specialist: “We were known as the ‘experimental batch’ and if we succeeded, more Filipino nurses would follow. And we did! I’ve been in Haematology and Oncology for 21 years, and nursing remains my calling and my passion. It hasn’t always been easy being far from home, but I embraced it with courage, faith, and a smile.”

Edylin Sumayod, Senior Sister, Older Persons Medicine SDEC: “It has been a privilege and an honour to be part of PHU for 25 years. None of my achievements would have been possible without the support of my colleagues and mentors who guided us when we first arrived. My heart has always been in caring for the elderly, and I’m proud to have devoted my career to this calling.”

Aurea Sharon Asuncion, Senior Staff Nurse, Respiratory High Care: “My 25-year journey with the NHS has been one of faith, love and fulfilment. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities, friendships and growth this journey has brought.”

Our Filipino community at PHU are celebrating their 25year anniversary with a special lunch, honouring the friendships, dedication, and values that have carried them through.

Commenting on the special event, Candice Berry, Head of Employee Relations and Inclusion said: "One of my highlights of 2025 was being able to host our first-ever Filipino Festival. It was such an honour and privilege to not only celebrate the culture and journey of our Filipino colleagues, but to experience the vibrancy, passion, pride, and wholehearted commitment they bring to PHU. This event truly showcased the strength of our diverse community and the values that unite us.

Further celebrations include recognition of the invaluable contributions of Filipino healthcare professionals, allied health professionals, support staff, and administrative colleagues across our Trust.