By Kaela Shaun L. Lauron
Congratulations to CPU College of Nursing alumnus Ralph Lauren Torre Figueroa (Batch 2008) for being recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos of 2025 for his exemplary contributions in nursing leadership, hospital operations, education, and research. Layout by: Patryxia Krys Soloren.
Iloilo City, Philippines — Central Philippine University College of Nursing alumnus Ralph Lauren Torre Figueroa, a 2008 cum laude graduate, has been recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos of 2025, honoring his contributions to nursing leadership, hospital operations, education, and research.
Currently serving as Nurse V and Section Head of the Critical Care Units and Specialty Centers at the Western Visayas Medical Center, Figueroa has consistently demonstrated excellence in nursing service administration, hospital operations, education, and research—significantly contributing to the healthcare system in Iloilo City and beyond.
Figueroa shared that among his many meaningful milestones in the nursing profession, leading the Critical Care Units and Specialty Centers at Western Visayas Medical Center has been one of the most fulfilling responsibilities.
“These specialized areas cater to the region’s most vulnerable patients and demand both precision and compassion,” he said. “Serving as a nurse leader means connecting hands-on patient care with hospital-wide direction, making sure each specialty service runs with excellence, responsiveness, and heart. It’s more than a title; it’s a daily commitment to people.” He added that mentoring young nurses and leading research projects remind him that “leadership in nursing is not about position, but about influence, stewardship, and lasting contribution to patient outcomes and public health.”
When asked what message he would like to share with student nurses, especially those from his alma mater, CPU, Figueroa offered words of encouragement grounded in faith, service, and resilience: “To future nurses and Centralians, serve with heart. Lead with purpose. Remain grounded in your values. Nursing is more than a career, it is a calling to restore, to stand in the gap, and to advocate. Not every path will be easy, and opportunities may not always be handed freely. When they’re not, create your own. Challenges will come, but so will growth, if you are diligent, if you put your whole heart into what you do, and if you remain faithful to your purpose.”
He further reminded aspiring nurses to invest in themselves holistically: “Invest in yourself both professionally and personally. Skills will open doors, but character will sustain you. Be excellent in your craft, but also be kind, teachable, and courageous. The fruits of hard work may not be immediate, but they are sure, and they will find you when the time is right.”
Above all, Figueroa emphasized the centrality of faith in his journey: “Put God at the center of everything. Let every choice be guided by His will. In both success and struggle, let His presence anchor you. It is in His perfect plan that the truest fulfillment is found, in serving others, in growing daily, and in becoming who you were called to be.”
Figueroa’s recognition as one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos of 2025 is not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for the CPU College of Nursing community. His achievements reflect the University’s core values of faith, character, excellence, and stewardship, and his inspiring leadership continues to serve as a model for both students and alumni.