By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Celebrating Excellence: Mr. Noel Roy Matutina Villa, a proud Centralian, is appointed as the new Director of Continuing Education and Program of the Filipino Nurses Association of Quebec, Inc. (FNAQ) for the 2024-2026 term.
The Filipino Nurses Association of Quebec, Inc. (FNAQ), Canada, proudly announced the appointment of Mr. Noel Roy Matutina Villa as Director of Continuing Education and Program for the 2024-2026 term in its Facebook post last October 7, 2024. His appointment, recommended by FNAQ President Mary Grace D. Ocampo and the Executive Board, underscores his dedication to advancing nursing education and supporting the Filipino nursing community in Quebec. Mr. Villa was formally inducted into office by Mrs. Corazon Diaz Abdon, former FNAQ President (2016-2020).
Mr. Villa is a member of the CPU Alumni Association Montreal Chapter (CPUAAMC) and brings an extensive background in healthcare and a deep-rooted commitment to professional development. He completed his Associate in Health Science Education in 2004 and his Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2006 at CPU. He is currently working toward a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Saint Paul University, Tuguegarao, and is a graduate of John Abbott College’s Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program, where he earned Dean’s List recognition. Additionally, he ranked top in his class for the Order of Nurses of Quebec (ONQ/OIIQ) exams.
Mr. Villa, originally from Bitaoyan 2, Badiangan, Iloilo, Philippines, has a long history of service in healthcare. He spent over 11 years at Iloilo Mission Hospital and currently works as a Palliative Care Nurse at Montreal’s Jewish General Hospital (JGH). He also chairs FNAQ’s Illness and Hospitalization Committee. Known for his commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care, Mr. Villa credits mentors such as his former head nurse, Mrs. Regina Coniza, now Director of Nursing at Iloilo Mission Hospital, for inspiring him to pursue continuous education. He also acknowledges the influence of Mrs. Lilia A. Delicana, a training consultant at Iloilo Mission Hospital, and Atty. Salex Alibogha, Dean of the CPU College of Nursing, whose guidance and leadership have greatly shaped his approach to nursing practice and education.
His past roles include significant contributions as an executive board member for the Capiz Emmanuel Hospital, Central Philippine University, and the Iloilo Mission Hospital Nurses Alumni Association (CCINAA), where he served under the leadership of notable figures such as Professor Cynthia Mendoza.
Throughout his career, Mr. Villa has overcome many challenges, including adapting to a new environment in Quebec by working diverse jobs while studying French. His journey has inspired other internationally educated nurses to persevere and excel. In FNAQ, he has been a dedicated volunteer, contributing to events and providing review classes for those preparing for the ONQ licensure exams.
In his new role, Mr. Villa is committed to fostering a supportive, growth-oriented environment that reflects the values of Central Philippine University and Filipino nursing tradition. He will be working closely with President Ocampo, co-Director Sonny Gran, and FNAQ founder Mrs. Maggie D. Belleza Calcetas. Mrs. Calcetas, a respected leader and retired Nursing Coordinator from the Jewish General Hospital, established FNAQ in 1992 to support Filipino nurses in Quebec. She is a graduate of CPU BSN 1961 and a CPU Most Distinguished Alumni Awardee 1996. Her vision of a nurturing and empowering community has left a lasting impact on Mr. Villa and countless others.
FNAQ extends its gratitude to Mr. Villa for his service and looks forward to his impactful leadership in the coming years.