The Cebu Provincial Government is actively seeking to recruit and train women skilled in patient care to support hospital personnel across the province. This initiative aligns with the vision of Dr. Nikki Catalan, Health Consultant at the Capitol, who is pushing to potentially launch a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program specifically for women and solo parents in Cebu.
Collaborative Meeting to Discuss Program Feasibility
On March 2, 2026, a pivotal meeting was held between representatives of the Cebu Provincial Government and the Naga College Foundation – Extension School. The primary agenda was to explore the possibility of implementing this CNA program, which is designed based on a proven U.S. framework.
Fast-Track Training with Clinical Immersion
The proposed program features a fast-track training approach combined with robust clinical immersion. This dual focus aims to thoroughly prepare graduates for specialized employment in various healthcare settings, ensuring they are job-ready upon completion.
This model has already demonstrated success in Naga, Camarines Sur, serving as a blueprint for the Cebu initiative. Key discussion points included identifying potential trainers, arranging clinical exposure for participants, and assessing the overall impact of the program on the local healthcare sector.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond Local Employment
Dr. Catalan emphasized that this initiative could open numerous opportunities not only for local job placement but also for ethical global mobility. The training is intended to align with international standards, enabling graduates to pursue careers abroad if they choose.
This represents a significant chance for trained allied health professionals to contribute to safe patient care, addressing both immediate staffing shortages and long-term career development in the healthcare industry.
