True to the spirit of public service, the UP College of Nursing constituents have found ways to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic.  To counter the increased spread of misinformation  about the disease that has led to discrimination and social stigma, the College spearheaded the development of infographics on social stigma based on the WHO Technical Guidance. The materials aim to increase people’s awareness on the tendency to resort to stigma and discrimination given the many unknowns and provided measures on how to avoid these and how people can contribute to mitigating its effects.  

The frontliners in the response, particularly the nurses, are vital in controlling the spread and managing cases of Covid-19. The nature of their work puts them at increased risk of acquiring the disease  and the need to self-isolate after hospital duty may have psychological implications. In response, the College launched the #NursesVoices in its official Facebook page for nurses to share their experiences and  contributions in the response to steer public attention and discussion towards increased investment in the health sector, in general, and in nursing, in particular. The #NursesVoices campaign has featured nurses working in the hospital and in public health settings.

Finally, the College has produced over the years thousands of nurses who are now in the frontlines in the Philippines and worldwide. These alumni have dedicated themselves to provide safe and quality care to patients notwithstanding the inherent risks in their line of work. Other alumni and some students serve as volunteers at the PGH Bayanihan Na! Operations Center. 

Peter James Abad  |  Published in Healthscape Special COVID-19 Issue No. 3