Filipino nurses are often hailed as heroes—and rightly so. Whether they’re caring for patients in local barangay clinics or saving lives in hospitals around the world, they show up with unmatched compassion, resilience, and skill. It's no wonder they're highly valued globally, with over 150,000 Filipino nurses currently working overseas. As we celebrate International Nurses Day on May 12, it's important to remember that behind their calm, reassuring presence are long hours, emotional tolls, and countless unseen sacrifices. So how can we thank them—not just on special occasions, but in everyday, meaningful ways? Here are five culturally relevant gestures of gratitude for Filipino nurses:

As we celebrate International Nurses Day on May 12, it's important to remember that behind their calm, reassuring presence are long hours, emotional tolls, and countless unseen sacrifices. So how can we thank them—not just on special occasions, but in everyday, meaningful ways? Here are five culturally relevant gestures of gratitude for Filipino nurses:

1. Say “Salamat” with Sincerity—And Say It Often

It may sound simple, but a heartfelt “Maraming salamat po” goes a long way. In a culture where pakikisama (getting along with others) and utang na loob (deep gratitude) matter, acknowledgment carries emotional weight.

If a nurse has helped you or a loved one, look them in the eye and say thank you—with no rush and no distractions. Sometimes, being seen and appreciated is more valuable than anything else.

2. Bring a Thoughtful Merienda or Snack

Food is love in the Filipino context, and offering a nurse something to eat—especially during long shifts—feels like a warm hug. A box of ensaymada, a bag of kakanin from the local market, or even a home-cooked dish can brighten their break time.

Just make sure it’s packaged safely and clearly labeled. This small gesture shows effort and care, both core values in Filipino hospitality.

3. Write a Thank-You Note or Message (Yes, On Actual Paper)

In the digital age, handwritten notes stand out. Write a personal letter or card to a nurse who cared for you or your family, especially after discharge. Share how their kindness helped you heal, or how their encouragement made a tough day more bearable.

If you’re not into writing, even a short message on a sticky note left at the nurse’s station can leave a lasting impact.

4. Support Local Nurse Advocacy and Wellness Efforts

Many Filipino nurses deal with outdated equipment, staff shortages, or even delayed benefits. Support groups or NGOs that promote nurses’ rights, such as the Filipino Nurses United (FNU) or other hospital-based collectives.

You don’t need to be an activist—sharing their campaigns, signing petitions, or attending community health events goes a long way. It shows that you don’t just thank them privately—you advocate for them publicly.

5. Celebrate Them Beyond Their Uniform

Remember that nurses are people too—parents, breadwinners, dreamers. Support them outside the hospital: buy from a side hustle they run, recommend them for scholarships or skills training, or simply ask how they’re doing.

In the Filipino setting, treating someone with pagkatao (respect for their whole personhood) is the ultimate form of appreciation.

Saying thank you to Filipino nurses isn’t just a one-day event. It’s a mindset—one that recognizes care work as essential, and care workers as human.

So the next time you cross paths with a nurse, whether at the barangay clinic or in the halls of a private hospital, pause for a moment. Say thank you. Offer a snack. Write a note. Stand by them.

They’ve done more for us than we’ll ever know. Let’s make sure they feel it—today, and every day.