Filipina in Saudi named Top 10 finalist for Aster Guardians Nursing Award 2026

Dinah Sevilla, a Filipino nurse based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is among the Top 10 finalists for the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award honors "exceptional nurses across the world." More than 134,000 nurses from 214 countries applied for this year's award, according to Aster DM Healthcare.

"This is truly humbling," Sevilla said in an interview with GMA Pinoy TV, as she recalled her journey as a nurse in Riyadh for the past 15 years.

"I accepted being in the 10 finalists with a heart full of gratitude, humility, and responsibility," she added.

Sevilla is a peritoneal dialysis head nurse at the King Saud University Medical City-King Khalid University Hospital in Riyadh.

She started her healthcare career in the Saudi capital in 2011 as a staff nurse assigned to various specialties.

"This [recognition] belongs to my entire peritoneal dialysis team, my multi-disciplinary colleagues, my mentors throughout my journey here in Saudi Arabia," Sevilla said.

"Because this is a reflection of teamwork, a shared responsibility and a sacrifice, and a collective commitment to patient safety and compassionate care," she added.

Through her brother's eyes

Sevilla's nursing career is deeply rooted in her relationship with her brother who has Down syndrome.

According to Sevilla, he has given her the unique perspective to "see the world through his eyes."

"Watching him face challenges with quiet strength has inspired me to be more compassionate and observant because my brother, he cannot fully express himself with words," Sevilla said.

Understanding his needs through his actions ultimately taught her the profound empathy and compassion that define her practice as a nurse.

"He taught me that healing is not only about medicines and treatment, sometimes it is when someone truly understands the pain even without words," Sevilla added.

Before she left for employment abroad, Sevilla was aware of the daily challenges her countrymen face to obtain quality medical services.

"Growing up in the Philippines, I witnessed how difficult healthcare can be. The healthcare access can be very difficult, mostly to the Filipinos who cannot afford, who emotionally and financially struggle, because they have limited resources on hand," Sevilla said.

Not only for the rich

Through her brother and her experiences in the Philippines, Sevilla developed a foundational medical philosophy—healthcare should never be a privilege reserved only for the wealthy.

"I strongly believe that healthcare should not only be for the rich but for every person who deserves compassion, hope, treatment, and opportunity to live a life regardless of their status in life," she said.

Her career journey is shaped not only by her professional mindset but also by her proud heart as a Filipino.

"This award may be about excellence and professionalism, but it is also a testament to our skills and carrying the heart of a Filipino nurse," Sevilla said. — VDV, GMA News