Healthcare
Filipina Military Nurse Maria Victoria Juan Wins Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024
Nurse Maria Victoria Juan, a Consultant at the Philippines Army Health Services and Colonel in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, has been honored with the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024. She received the prestigious accolade, along with a cash prize of USD 250,000, during a ceremony held in Bengaluru, India.
The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, established in 2021, aims to recognize the indispensable contributions of nurses to global healthcare. This year, the award garnered over 78,000 applications from 202 countries, marking a remarkable 50% increase compared to 2023.
In a special message, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, praised the finalists and commended Aster DM Healthcare for spotlighting the critical role of nurses in healthcare.
Expressing her gratitude, Nurse Maria said, “As a military nurse, my journey has been defined by unwavering dedication—whether in combat zones, disaster areas, or underserved communities. This award is a tribute to the courage and honor of soldiers I serve alongside and the resilience of the Filipino people who inspire me daily. It also represents the tireless, selfless contributions of nurses in both military and civilian sectors who risk their lives to save others.”
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, remarked, “Maria exemplifies the pinnacle of nursing excellence and serves as an inspiration to the global healthcare community. Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, offering care with compassion and playing a vital role in the system. The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Awards celebrate their invaluable contributions.”
Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, added, “Maria’s courage, skill, and compassion showcase the very best of healthcare. Through this platform, we aim to spotlight such remarkable stories of dedication and resilience.”