In the scorching heat of Los Banos, Laguna, a remarkable event unfolded yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the battle against cervical cancer. Despite the unforgiving weather, an impressive 48 patients braved the conditions to attend screening sites in Brgy Anos, underscoring the growing awareness of the importance of early detection and prevention among women in the area.
The cervical cancer screening campaign, aptly named “Silip Cervix Sagip Buhay” (Examining the Cervix Saves Lives), is pioneering continuous implementation in a city or municipality. Running from April 12 to April 30, Monday to Friday, the campaign covers all 14 barangays in Los Banos, Laguna. It goes beyond mere screening, offering a full continuum of care—from Cervical Cancer Awareness programs to HPV Vaccination and cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence Assisted Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) using a colposcope, or Digital Cervicography.
The campaign’s success is palpable from its inception. Starting in Brgy Batong Malaki on April 12, where 28 patients were screened, the momentum only grew. Brgy Lalakay and Brgy Mayondon saw 30 patients each per day during the subsequent legs. However, it was during the fourth leg in Brgy Anos that the campaign reached a new high, with 48 patients screened. This surge reflects a growing trend of women actively participating in this Barangay-to-Barangay initiative.
Could this model be replicated elsewhere in Los Banos? If so, it holds the promise of eliminating cervical cancer in the Philippines.
Behind this remarkable achievement lies the tireless dedication of numerous individuals. Dr. Alvin Isidoro’s exemplary leadership, coupled with the commitment of Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecology Southern Tagalog members such as Dr. Jane Revilla and Dr. Christy Ebuenga, has been instrumental. The Los Banos Municipal Health Office team, alongside the leaders and members of Brgy Anos, have each played a pivotal role in this commendable effort.
Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecology – Southern Tagalog member – Dr. Christy Ebuenga – OB- GYNE
Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecology – Southern Tagalog member – Dr. Jane Revilla – OB- GYNE
Dr. Alvin Isidoro, the dedicated Municipal Health Officer of Los Banos, goes above and beyond by offering personalized counseling to patients following the screening process. Utilizing cutting-edge technology such as Artificial Intelligence Assisted Cervical Cancer Screening with a Colposcope, he ensures that patients receive prompt and accurate results.
Additionally, the involvement of civil society representatives in the form of Carmen “Menchie” Auste, CEO of the Cancer Warriors Foundation and Vice-President of the Cancer Coalition Philippines, further underscores the collaborative nature of this endeavor. As a civil society representative to the National Integrated Cancer Control Council, Menchie Auste is currently focusing on the next steps of the campaign. She is exploring avenues to assist patients diagnosed with abnormal findings, providing support to navigate through their diagnoses, and identifying appropriate interventions. These efforts reflect the ongoing commitment to ensuring that the project achieves its intended goals and fulfills its mission to combat cervical cancer effectively.
This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of various entities. The Los Banos Municipal Government played a crucial role in facilitating logistics and providing resources for the campaign. Additionally, organizations such as CerviQ, Cancer Warriors Foundation, and Cancer Coalition Philippines contributed expertise and resources to ensure the success of the initiative.
Furthermore, the global outreach and collaboration of Rotary Clubs (RC) from different regions, including RC South San Francisco, RC Los Banos Makiling, RC Los Banos, and RC Pila West, exemplify the power of international cooperation in addressing critical health issues.
Together, these stakeholders have demonstrated a unified commitment to combating cervical cancer and improving healthcare access for communities in Los Banos and beyond. Their collective efforts have not only raised awareness but also provided tangible support to those in need, reflecting the spirit of compassion and solidarity.
To all those involved, my heartfelt congratulations to each one! Your unwavering commitment and hard work epitomize the essence of community and compassion. Mabuhay kayong lahat! Together, we can make strides towards a future free from the scourge of cervical cancer.
