CITY OF CARMONA, Cavite (PIA) — More than 150 female teachers at Angelo Loyola Senior High School in the City of Carmona, Cavite, received free cervical and breast cancer screenings from the Department of Health (DOH) Region 4A in celebration of Valentine’s Day on February 14.
The free screening was part of the “Kanserbisyong Kababaihan” an initiative aimed at strengthening early cancer detection and treatment for women. It also aligns with the DOH’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services for women.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who led the event, highlighted the vital role of women’s health in building strong communities.
“A community can only thrive if its women are strong and healthy. That’s why we continue to strengthen our initiatives to ensure that every Filipino woman has access to quality and affordable healthcare services,” Herbosa said.
DOH data show that three of every 100 Filipino women are diagnosed with breast cancer—one of the highest rates in the world. Alarmingly, only 1 percent of cases are detected early, while most are diagnosed in later stages, making treatment more challenging and increasing the risk of severe complications.
Herbosa also encouraged all women, especially those in education, to undergo regular screenings for early detection and prevention of illnesses.
Beyond cancer screening, the Kanserbisyong Kababaihan program also provided HPV vaccination, PhilPEN risk assessment, family planning consultation, mental health counseling, and HIV screening, all designed to expand women’s access to preventive healthcare.
This initiative is part of the DOH’s 8-Point Action Agenda, which aims to ensure that every Filipino receives safe, high-quality, and compassionate healthcare services. (Cecile Maloles, PIA4A)
