PRESS RELEASE NO. 142-2024

Community advocate and FYLPRO Board Member Mr. Constancio Paranal (left), Acting Head of Post Pamela Durian-Bailon (center), and Ms. Arlyn dela Pena Medendorp, Co-Producer of the film documentary Nurse Unseen, pose for a photo at the red carpet event before the film showing at Kailua Theaters last 5 December. (Photo courtesy of Mr. Calvin Bagaoisan)

8 December 2024, Honolulu – The Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu proudly congratulates the producers of the documentary film Nurse Unseen on its successful Hawai‘i premiere and its eligibility for the Academy Awards. The film was showcased at Kailua Cinemas from December 5 to 8, 2024, offering audiences a profound insight into the invaluable contributions of Filipino nurses in the United States.

Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Michele Josue, Nurse Unseen delves into the history and humanity of Filipino nurses who have been pivotal in the U.S. healthcare system. The documentary highlights their unwavering dedication, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges they faced while providing much-needed care amidst a resurgence of anti-Asian sentiment. 

The film's journey has been marked by significant acclaim. Its New York City screenings in October 2024 sold out, leading to additional showings that qualified it for Oscar consideration. Nurse Unseen is now available in the Academy Screening Room for voting members. 

During the panel discussion held prior to the film’s screening, Ms. Arlyn Dela Peña Medendorp, Co-Producer of the documentary film, highlighted the film’s origins, inspired by the alarming 2020 statistics showing Filipino nurses constituting only 4% of the total US nursing population, but 31% of COVID-19-related nurse fatalities.

The stories of Filipino nurses’ sacrifice and resilience resonate deeply within the Filipino community in Hawaii, the US, and beyond. For more information about the film and its upcoming screenings, please visit www.nurseunseen.com.