Run Against Cervical Cancer Draws 1,000 Strong: A Powerful Call for Prevention and Awareness

Making Strides Against Cervical Cancer | Runners set off at the 5KM gun start of the Run Against Cervical Cancer, marking Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and rallying support for prevention and early detection efforts. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

On May 25, 2025, over 1,000 participants gathered at Parqal Mall in ASEANA City, Parañaque, for the Run Against Cervical Cancer (RACC). This event marked the start of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and aimed to raise awareness about prevention and early detection.

Organized by MSD Philippines and the Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), the run featured 3km and 5km routes. Runners included families, cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, and advocates, all united by a common cause.

Personal Stories of Strength

Among the participants was Lorely Magalona, who dedicated her run to her mother, a cervical cancer victim. Lorely, now 40, runs 10km daily and has completed an 80km ultramarathon. She shared:

“You benefit from exercise in more ways than one. We all want to live longer and healthier lives.”

Seventy-eight-year-old ultramarathoner Rosalinda Ogsimer joins the Run Against Cervical Cancer to show support for those battling the disease and to help raise awareness on prevention and early detection. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

Senior athletes like 78-year-old Rosalinda Ogsimer and 67-year-old Patricio Punzalan also joined, showing that age is no barrier to fitness or advocacy.

The Importance of Prevention

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of death among Filipino women, with 7,897 new cases and 4,052 deaths annually. The primary cause is persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination against HPV, especially among girls aged 9 to 14, significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life. However, vaccination coverage in the country remains low, hindered by misinformation, limited access, and lack of awareness.

The RACC event highlighted the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 goals for eliminating cervical cancer by 2030:

• 90% of girls fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15
• 70% of women screened with high-performance tests by 35 and again by 45

• 90% of women diagnosed with cervical disease receive timely treatment

Voices for Change

Advocates like content creator Charm de Leon and media personality Andi Manzano emphasized the importance of vaccination and early screening. Charm de Leon encouraged women to take charge of their health:

“If you’re waiting for a sign, this is it. Get screened, research the HPV vaccine, and follow credible voices in health.”

Advocates and representatives from public and private organizations participate in a commitment exercise during the Run Against Cervical Cancer, uniting efforts to help eliminate cervical cancer through prevention, awareness, and early detection. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

Former national football player and coach Belay Fernando-Dela Cruz, a Stage 3B cervical cancer survivor, likened the run to her cancer journey:

“Sometimes you’re running alone, sometimes with others. But what matters is showing up and staying the course.”

Community Support and Advocacy

Quezon City District 1 Councilor Charm Ferrer, a Stage 3C cervical cancer survivor, shared her own advocacy after undergoing 36 rounds of radiation, 4 brachytherapy sessions, and 6 chemotherapy treatments. She called on other local government units to replicate Quezon City’s Comprehensive Cervical Cancer Elimination Ordinance, which expands access to HPV vaccines and screening services.

MSD Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel closed the event with a powerful reminder:

“Cervical cancer is preventable. The solutions are here—vaccination, screening, and treatment. What we need now is action.

Take Action Today

Cervical cancer is preventable. Vaccination and regular screening are key to protection. Join the movement. Together, we can eliminate cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer: The Philippines Says "No More!"

Did you know that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers?

The Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV) recently hosted a media forum titled "Isang Boses Laban Sa Cervical Cancer," in Novotel Manila, bringing together key medical societies, organizations, and government agencies to discuss the urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer in the Philippines. The forum highlighted a united front among various sectors, all committed to accelerating efforts toward this goal.

The event brought together key medical societies and organizations, including the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines (PIDSP), Philippine Infectious Disease Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (PIDSOG), Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (PSMID), among others; Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics (JHPIEGO); government agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Education (DepEd); and Quezon City District 1 Councilor Charm Ferrer, in a collective commitment to advancing HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment to eliminate cervical cancer by 2064.

Burden of cervical cancer and strategies for elimination Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer, which claims the lives of 12 Filipinas every day. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to HPV, yet this disease is largely preventable through vaccination. The HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection, offering a critical opportunity to save thousands of lives by preventing cervical cancer and related diseases. 

In response to this public health challenge, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in 2020, setting ambitious targets for 2030: 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15, 70% of women screened by ages 35 and 45, and 90% of women with cervical disease receiving appropriate treatment.

Australia and Indonesia are leading the charge in cervical cancer elimination through their ramped-up HPV vaccination programs. Australia, which launched the world's first publicly funded national HPV vaccination program in 2007, has coupled it with a comprehensive National Cervical Screening Program that has been in place since 1991. By vaccinating both girls and boys aged 12-23 and introducing a twice- in-a-lifetime screening, Australia is on track to eliminate cervical cancer by 2038.

Indonesia has recently committed to a National Cervical Cancer Elimination Plan (2023-2030) that aligns with WHO's 90-70-90 targets, adapting them to local needs and resources. This plan emphasizes a multisectoral approach, involving stakeholders from academia, industry, healthcare, religious groups, and the media to drive success.

In contrast to Australia and Indonesia's robust efforts, the Philippines faces significant challenges in cervical cancer prevention, with only 33% HPV vaccine coverage for girls and a screening rate of less than 1% for women. This disparity underscores the need for stronger initiatives in the Philippines to improve both HPV vaccination rates and access to cervical cancer screening. If the country fully implements these elimination pillars, cervical cancer could be eliminated by 2064, potentially preventing 970,000 deaths.

Integrating 9-Valent HPV vaccine into the national immunization program

A key focus of the forum is on the need to upgrade to the 9-valent HPV vaccine, which offers broader protection against emerging high-risk HPV genotypes, including HPV types 31, 45, 52, and 58. These types have become more prevalent in the Philippines. The 9-valent vaccine, already available in private healthcare settings since 2017, is a crucial component in the country's cervical cancer prevention strategy. It is also pre-qualified by the WHO, ensuring its safety and effectiveness.

Studies from countries like Japan show that the 9-valent vaccine achieves earlier and more significant reductions in cervical cancer incidence compared to earlier vaccines. Thailand has also recently upgraded its national immunization program to include the 9-valent vaccine.

Medical societies will be presenting their unified stance on integrating the 9-valent HPV vaccine into the National Immunization Program to ensure comprehensive protection for Filipino girls.

Expanding access to HPV vaccination

With the country facing challenges in scaling up HPV vaccine coverage, the forum will highlight the urgent need to expand access points for vaccination. By increasing HPV vaccination availability in private schools and clinics, the Philippines can work towards achieving the WHO's 90% vaccine coverage rate and bridge existing gaps in immunization.

Urgent call to eliminate cervical cancer

Cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases are causing unnecessary loss of life, despite the availability of vaccines and effective screening. This fight can be won, but it requires swift and decisive action.

There is an urgent need to close the awareness gap and ensure that every Filipino-particularly young adolescents-has access to life-saving HPV vaccines. The tools are available, but a collective effort is required to reach those most in need.

Government agencies, healthcare professionals, and community leaders are being called upon to join this critical fight. Together, they can combat misinformation, increase vaccination rates, and work toward the eradication of cervical cancer in the Philippines.

The moment to act is now, as lives hang in the balance. By uniting, stakeholders can prevent unnecessary suffering, save thousands of lives, and pave the way for a healthier future for the nation.

Watsons Encourages the Public to Take Action for Women’s Health

Leading health and beauty retailer Watsons supports cervical cancer awareness; highlights prevention through timely HPV vaccine

The Watsons Take Action for Women’s Health media education session featured a panel discussion facilitated by broadcast journalist Doris Bigornia; Sharon Decapia, SAVP - Marketing, PR & Sustainability, Watsons Philippines; Dr. Cecilia Llave, Trustee, Philippine Cancer Society; and Dr. Carolyn Zalameda-Castro, Fellow and Chair of Task Force on Women First, Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society. 

Leading health and beauty retailer Watsons conducted a virtual education session to raise awareness on cervical cancer and encourage the public to take preventive steps for their health. "Take Action for Women’s Health" highlights how the HPV vaccine can prevent Filipino women from acquiring cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common female cancer in the world, and the second most frequent one in the Philippines.

Hosted by broadcast journalist Doris Bigornia, the event featured activities designed to engage and educate. This included the Cervical Cancer Mythbusters game where members of the media were challenged to identify common myths about cervical cancer and tweet out what they learned as the session progressed. 

Angel Enero,  Blogger

Blogger Angel Enero posts her TIL or Today I Learned from session: 99% of cervical cancer cases are due to chronic persistent infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV). 

For her part, Dr. Carolyn R. Zalameda-Castro of Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society highlighted the link between education and a woman’s health outcomes. 

“We empower our women against this disease and educate them to actively take action. With education, there is an improvement in the mother’s knowledge and perception of the importance of modern medicine for the care of the children.” Dr. Zalameda-Castro noted that initiatives like this improve the quality of life of the whole family. 

Dr. Cecilia Llave of the Philippine Cancer Society gave a short talk on cervical cancer. She highlighted  that getting an HPV vaccine along with regular screening and having a healthy lifestyle can help lower cancer risks. 

“Remember, cervical cancer can be treated if diagnosed early. It can be prevented with healthy living and (HPV) vaccination,” states Dr. Cecilia Llave. She also emphasized the need for timely screening: “do not wait for signs and symptoms, early screening is very important - cervical cancer can be treated if diagnosed early.” 

Data from the HPV Information Center reveals that “Current estimates indicate that every year 7897 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 4052 die from the disease. Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in the Philippines and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.” 

“As a leading health and beauty retailer in the Philippines, we aim to emphasize accessibility to the HPV vaccine. Awareness is the first step, second is availability. That's why we are rolling out our awareness efforts through media events," shares Sharon Decapia, Watsons Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing, PR & Sustainability. The HPV vaccine is available in over 200 Watsons stores nationwide. Customers can also avail of free doctor’s assessment on vaccine day. 

Watsons is actively promoting health literacy in the Philippines through its various initiatives and platforms. One of its key contributions is the online Health Hub, which serves as a comprehensive resource for health tips, information, and expert advice.The Health Supplement Advisor available on the Health Hub addresses concerns ranging from immune support, liver health, sleep, digestion, weight management, and joint care amongst others.. 

“Cervical cancer is a significant health concern that affects women worldwide, and it is vital to have accurate information and expert guidance to address this issue effectively,” Decapia adds.

Book Your Vaccinations at Watsons

Get vaccinated at Watsons. Register and pay via the Watsons Vaccine site ( https://www.vaccination.watsons.com.ph/) 

With over 200 Watsons stores offering HPV vaccination and easy booking via the Watsons Vaccination site (www.vaccination.watsons.com.ph), getting protected is now more convenient. Click here (https://www.vaccination.watsons.com.ph/Home/FAQs) to learn how you can get HPV Vaccine on August 17 - 20. 

 

About Watsons

Watsons is part of the Health and Beauty Store chain of A.S Watson, the largest health, beauty, cosmetics, and perfumery retailer in the world. Today, Watsons H&B Asia is the leading health and beauty chain in the continent with successful operations in 13 markets. In 2002, A.S. Watson Group joined hands with SM Prime Holdings Inc., the Philippines' leading shopping mall developer. The partnership brought about the first Watsons stores in SM Megamall and The Podium (Ortigas).

Today, Watsons operates 1000+ stores in the Philippines serving more than 250,000 customers per day. Watsons strives to ensure that its customers get the best value for their money through monthly promotions, special offers, and continuous consumer marketing programs. Each Watsons store houses nothing but the best brands from top manufacturers all over the world and also carries its own competitively priced, high-quality private labels and brands. With more than 1,000 brands ranging from medicines, cosmetics, and fragrances to personal care items and general merchandise, Watsons Your Personal Store delivers only the best health, wellness, and beauty solutions to each and every customer.

Cervical Cancer: Understanding a Fatal Female Diseases

Leading health and beauty retailer Watsons encourages the public to stay protected against cervical cancer. 

In the Philippines, cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among Filipino women, especially those aged 15 to 44 years old. 7,897 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer yearly and from that number, 4,052 of them succumb to the disease. What’s more, cervical cancer also puts women at higher risk of miscarriage and infertility. 

Certain strains  of the Human Papillomavirus or HPV are the main cause of cervical cancer. It’s the most common sexually transmitted infection. Sexually active people, even with just one partner, can get HPV. This can be passed on even when they have no signs or symptoms of the infection.  Fortunately, HPV is a vaccine-preventable disease. 

"Vaccination provides an extra layer of protection. We are working to help build healthier communities by making vaccination more convenient and ensuring that customers always have access to accurate health information," says Jared De Guzman, Customer Director of Watsons. 

Symptoms

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix which connects the vagina, the birth canal, to the upper part of the uterus. Commonly known as the womb, the uterus is where a baby grows during pregnancy. Anyone with a cervix is at risk for cervical cancer, and the risk grows with age as this occurs most often in people aged over 30.

Unfortunately, cervical cancer may not show signs and symptoms in its early stages. More often than not, it's already in the advanced stage when there's bleeding or discharge from the vagina that is abnormal for you, including bleeding after sex.

If you start noticing any of these signs, immediately see your doctor. The symptoms may be caused by something else, but the only way to know you have cervical cancer is to see your doctor.

Prevention

Schedule your regular screening tests with your doctor. The Pap test, commonly known as Pap smear, looks for precancerous cells.

You can also have a regular HPV test since it looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes. But the greatest preventive measure against cervical cancer is the HPV vaccine.

The HPV vaccine not only protects you against the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer but also the types of HPV that cause vaginal and vulvar cancers. This vaccination is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years old but can be given at age 9, with your family doctor's go signal.

If you missed the HPV vaccine in your preteen years, you can still get it until 26 years of age. Although it's not recommended for everyone older than 26, you can still talk to your doctor about it and get vaccinated until 45 years old.

Cancer is a life-altering disease that everyone wishes to avoid. To ensure that the women in our lives live long and happy lives, we must encourage them to prioritize their health and choose to be protected against all preventable diseases.

As every Filipino's health partner, Watsons makes it easier for you to have a good quality of life. You can easily schedule your HPV vaccination through the Watsons Health Hub or visit any of the 1000+ Watsons stores nationwide and ask their pharmacists. On your vaccination day, a free doctor’s assessment is included in their service.

Stay Protected

Photo from Watsons

Through Watson’s amazing network, they’re able to provide you with different products and services to ensure that you can look after your overall health and wellness through accessible and affordable means. From June 15 to July 15, 2023, the Watsons Hub in SM North EDSA The Grand will offer free teleconsultation services to Watsons Pharmacy customers.

In partnership with The Medical City, the teleconsultation can provide patients with enhanced remote care through in-depth, physical examinations such as checking the heart rate, lung sounds, throat exam, ear exam, and taking temperature. After getting your diagnosis, you can buy the doctor’s prescription at the Watsons Pharmacy beside the clinic.