SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, California – The Kaiser Permanente Filipino Association (KPFA) now known as the Filipino Nurses & Allies Association (FNAA), celebrated its 30th anniversary with a special event on December 13, 2024, honoring its rich history and recognizing outstanding scholars.
The celebration highlighted the organization’s remarkable journey from its inception as a social group for Filipino employees at Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco (KSSF) to its current role as a thriving non-profit committed to community outreach, professional development, and nurturing the next generation of Filipino scholars.
KPFA’s origins trace back to 1994, when Dr. Sydney Rosenberg, a KSSF neurologist, observed the strong camaraderie among Filipino staff members, particularly during shared meals or potluck. Recognizing the need for a formal organization to represent this growing community within Kaiser Permanente, he encouraged the formation of KPFA.
The initial organizing members included Josie Hsiao (EEG Technician), Choi Roxas (Member Services), Jun Salumbides (Physical Therapy), Nan Santiago (Social Worker), Alma Saltiban Stephenson (ER), and Malou Aclan (Cardiac Rehab). Choi Roxas served as the first president, but due to unforeseen circumstances. Malou Aclan, then Vice President, succeeded as the next president,
who tirelessly guided the organization up to present: Vivian Poblete (1996-1998), Jocelyn Vistan (1999-2000), Alma Saltiban-Stephenson (2000-2002), Felt Santiago (2002-2004), Linda Evangelista (2004-2006), Jun Salumbides (2006-2008), Malou Aclan (2008-2011), Vicky Palomar (2011-2013), Kim Cortezano (2013-2014), Virgie Castillo (2014-2016), Marilou Ramirez (2017-2019), Ronda Mananquil (2019-2021), and, Debbie Connor (2021-2023).
Over three decades, KPFA broadened its scope to encompass vital community initiatives such as outreach programs, flu shot drives, health and wellness events, and, most notably, its scholarship program. This program, conceived by former president Jun Salumbides, launched in 1999 with an essay contest designed to encourage high school senior Filipino-American students of KSSF employees to explore and celebrate their Filipino heritage.
The program later expanded to include students from schools in the Bay Area. The annual scholarship banquet serves as the culmination of year-long fundraising activities, which include Zumbathons, casino trips, karaoke nights, bowling fellowships, walkathon and bingo.
KPFA has also been actively involved in community service, coordinating with Kaiser Public Affairs to participate in local events. KPFA has also collaborated with other local organizations to offer healthcare services through health education, blood pressure screenings, and diabetes screenings.
KPFA has also collaborated with other event sponsors in joining cultural activities such as the annual ‘Pistahan’ event in San Francisco.
This year marked a significant milestone with KPFA’s transformation into the Filipino Nurses & Allies Association (FNAA). This name change reflects the organization’s strong foundation in nursing and its collaborative partnerships with a diverse network of healthcare professionals and community organizations – its “allies.” The gear symbol associated with the FNAA logo represents collaboration, interconnectedness, innovation, problem-solving, teamwork, and progress.
At the anniversary celebration, FNAA President Arline Cacho Bocaling expressed her gratitude and vision for the future: “Here’s to the next 30 years of making a difference, growing together, and inspiring change.” The mission of FNAA is to provide opportunities for all Kaiser Filipino staff to unite with a common goal of
enhancing personal and professional growth through leadership performance. It also aims to improve access to services for Kaiser Permanente Filipino members through community outreach, promote and share Filipino heritage, values, and culture.
Three exceptional scholars were recognized and awarded at the banquet: Ilyas Abdolcader received $2,500, Isis Ordaz- $3,000, and, Carmelo Sapinoso- $2,000.
The 2024-2026 FNAA officers leading the organization into its next chapter are: Arline C. Bocaling (President), Baby Lyn Abadilla (Internal Vice-president), Sharlyn Guterres (External Vice-president), Diane Santiago (Secretary), Pauline Uy (Treasurer), Vicky Palomar (Asst. Treasurer & Exec. Advisory Council), Mary Jane Sagabaen (Auditor), Executive Advisory Council- Debbie Connor, Ronda Mananquil, and Malou Aclan.
The FNAA continues to uphold its mission of providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, enhancing community outreach, and promoting Filipino heritage, values, and culture.
