08/02/2026
Nurse Corps, AFP Honors Two Distinguished Retirees.
23 January 2026 — During the 1st Semestral AFP Nursing Service Family Conference at Firing Range Multipurpose Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, a surprise tribute was tendered to recognize two exceptional Nurse Corps leaders who will compulsorily retiring in the first quarter of 2026, Colonel Ma Nieva L Mantilla NC (GSC) effective January 29, 2026, and Colonel Rebecca F Ranches NC (GSC) effective March 11, 2026
Colonel Ma Nieva L Mantilla NC (GSC), holds the position of Chief Nursing Service, Victoriano Luna General Hospital, AFP Medical Center, is a respected Peri-Operative Nurse Specialist recognized for her discipline, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to developing competent and principled nurses.
Colonel Rebecca F Ranches NC (GSC), currently the Chief Nurse, Philippine Navy, is a Critical Care Nurse Specialist and is known for her strong advocacy for Mental Health and HIV programs, championing compassionate, inclusive, and life-saving care for some of the most vulnerable members of the military community. Through her voice and leadership, she has created a lasting impact across the Corps.
A Plaque of Recognition was presented by Brigadier General Ma Dolores M Lim NC, The Chief Nurse, AFP, assisted by Colonel Michael M Mangahas NC (GSC) and Colonel Barbara Lollini C Conte NC (GSC), Executive Officer and Chief, Personnel Management Division, respectively, of the Office of The Chief Nurse, AFP, in gratitude for their invaluable service and unwavering commitment to military nursing for more than three (3) decades. A meaningful and heartfelt Audio-visual presentation, highlighting the military journey and featuring personal messages from their friends, colleagues and family were also presented in honor of Colonel Mantilla NC (GSC) and Colonel Ranches NC (GSC).
In their responses, the honorees reflected on their humble beginnings, shared stories of perseverance, and spoke about the journey that shaped their careers, leaving the audience both inspired and deeply moved.
The Nurse Corps and the AFP Nursing Service family salute Colonel Ma Nieva L Mantilla NC (GSC) and Colonel Rebecca F Ranches NC (GSC) for a lifetime of dedicated service to the nation. Their contributions will forever remain part of the Nurse Corps’ proud heritage.
