In the Philippines, the rainy season is known to bring with it flooded streets, sudden class suspensions, and temporary shutdowns of government offices. And today was no exception—several government agencies suspended operations due to the heavy downpour across Luzon.
But in the heart of PNOC Industrial Park in Mariveles, Bataan, the men and women of Philippine Resin Industrial Inc. (PRII) showed unwavering dedication—not just to their work, but also to their health and well-being.
Despite the stormy skies and office closures elsewhere, PRII stood resilient. And more than that, they made space for something just as critical as productivity: education and awareness on HPV and cervical cancer prevention.
Beyond Production: PRII as a Model for Workplace Health
Philippine Resin Industrial Inc. (PRII) is a pioneering player in the resin manufacturing industry. Known for its excellence in industrial operations, PRII is also emerging as a model workplace for health promotion, proving that caring for employees goes far beyond PPEs and annual checkups.
Since 2023, even before the rollout of formal advisories, PRII has already been conducting workplace-based health awareness initiatives. This foresight puts them ahead of the curve, especially in line with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Advisory No. 29 Series of 2024, which calls for the implementation of workplace-based cervical cancer prevention and early detection programs.
As part of their compliance—and more importantly, their commitment to a healthier workforce—PRII organized today’s HPV and Cervical Cancer Awareness Seminar, a well-attended session that proves once again: even when it rains, awareness must go on.
A Timely Seminar Amid an Urgent Need
Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet deadly diseases affecting women worldwide—and in the Philippines, 12 women die from it every single day. The primary cause is persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that is highly transmissible, often silent, and easily misunderstood.
What makes this more tragic is that early detection and vaccination can reduce a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer by over 90%. Unfortunately, low awareness and stigma still prevent many women from getting screened or vaccinated.
This is why seminars like today’s matter.
Promoting Awareness, Saving Lives
The seminar, conducted in the PRII conference hall, was both informative and empowering. It covered:
-
The basics of HPV and its link to cervical cancer
-
How vaccination can prevent HPV-related diseases
-
The importance of routine cervical screening like HPV-DNA Testing, Pap smear and VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid)
-
New innovations in speculoscopy and remote tele-evaluation
-
Access to local screening and vaccination programs
Participants listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and engaged in meaningful dialogue. Many were surprised to learn that cervical cancer symptoms often appear only in the late stages, making regular screening critical.
There was a shared sense of urgency in the room—and an even greater sense of empowerment as employees began to understand that cervical cancer can be defeated with timely action.
Special Thanks to Ms. Glenda Isidro: Championing Workplace Health
This important seminar would not have been possible without the efforts of Ms. Glenda Isidro, Occupational Health Nurse of PRII. Her leadership in promoting health education in the workplace is deeply commendable.
From coordinating the logistics to ensuring the comfort and engagement of the participants, Ms. Isidro played a pivotal role in today’s success. Her dedication proves that true occupational health care means preventing illness, not just treating it.
As our speaker from End Cervical Cancer Philippines Organization Inc. (CerviQ) shared, “Health promotion doesn’t stop at clinics or hospitals—it begins where people spend most of their time: the workplace.”
Ms. Isidro exemplifies this belief through action. Kudos to her, and to the entire PRII team for fostering a culture of care and prevention.
A Nod to the DOLE Advisory—and a Step Beyond
Earlier this year, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) released Advisory No. 06, Series of 2025, reinforcing the need for cervical cancer prevention and early detection initiatives in the workplace. This aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas initiative to build a healthier, more informed, and resilient workforce.
PRII, however, did not wait for policy to act. They have been laying the groundwork since 2023, recognizing that employee well-being and corporate sustainability go hand in hand.
Their continued action underlines a simple truth: The earlier we invest in awareness, the more lives we save—and the more empowered our communities become.
Moving Forward: The Power of Workplace-Based Prevention
Today’s awareness seminar is more than just an event—it is a starting point. One conversation can lead to one woman getting screened. One session can inspire a parent to vaccinate their child. And one company can ripple out change across an entire industry.
The success of the seminar at PRII serves as a powerful model for other companies across the Philippines. When businesses partner with advocacy groups like CerviQ, they bridge the gap between medical knowledge and real-world action.
Final Words: Rain or Shine, Awareness Saves Lives
It may have rained heavily today. Classes were suspended. Government offices closed. But in Mariveles, the message of prevention carried on—undeterred, unshaken.
Thanks to the leadership of PRII, the proactive spirit of Ms. Glenda Isidro, and the collaboration with CerviQ, today’s seminar planted seeds of awareness that will bear the fruit of healthier, longer lives for many.
Let us all take this example as a reminder: storms may come, but our commitment to saving lives must never be suspended.
