The Philippine Coast Guard Sea Marshal Force (SMF) is a specialized unit tasked with ensuring maritime security across the country, protecting against threats such as terrorism, piracy, and other criminal activities at sea. Beyond its critical role in national defense, the Philippine Coast Guard Sea Marshal Force also champions the health and well-being of its personnel through meaningful internal initiatives.
In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Philippine Coast Guard Sea Marshal Force once again demonstrated that its mission extends beyond maritime security. It actively promotes breast cancer awareness, cervical cancer awareness, and HPV awareness—key health priorities that impact the lives of many Filipino women.
On March 19, 2026, officers and personnel gathered at the Coast Guard Sea Marshal Headquarters in Buendia, Pasay City for a meaningful and potentially life-saving initiative: a Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Awareness Seminar, with a strong focus on HPV awareness as a leading cause of cervical cancer.
A Collaborative Effort for Health and Awareness
The seminar was spearheaded by the Ready Eagles Club – Ready Lady Eagles Club under the leadership of Kuya Rolley So, whose commitment to community service continues to create impactful health initiatives.
Their partnership with CerviQ – End Cervical Cancer Philippines Organization Inc. highlights a shared vision: empowering communities through education, prevention, and access to care.
A Message from the Frontlines of Medicine
Serving as the guest lecturer was Dr. Jesus Randy “Bogs” Rivera, founder of CerviQ and a leading advocate in the fight against cervical cancer in the Philippines.
Drawing from his extensive experience in oncology and public health, Dr. Rivera delivered a compelling and relatable discussion that resonated with both male and female personnel.
He emphasized that:
- Cancer does not discriminate—both men and women must be proactive about their health
- Early detection saves lives, especially through regular screening
- Vaccination against HPV is a critical step in preventing cervical cancer
- Breast cancer awareness should include men, who are also at risk, though less commonly
Understanding the Urgency
Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern, ranking as the 4th leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Despite being highly preventable, many cases are still diagnosed late due to lack of awareness and access to screening.
Through initiatives like this seminar, organizations are bridging that gap—bringing knowledge directly to communities that serve and protect others.
From Awareness to Action
The session did not just inform—it inspired action.
Participants were encouraged to:
- Undergo regular screening such as Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA)
- Consider HPV vaccination as a preventive measure
- Share knowledge with their families and communities
- Take an active role in promoting a culture of health within their units
This aligns strongly with the mission of CerviQ to make cervical cancer elimination a reality in the Philippines through education, early detection, and accessible care.
Protecting Those Who Protect Us
The Coast Guard Sea Marshal Force stands on the frontlines of national security. By investing in their health, we ensure they remain strong, resilient, and ready to serve.
This Women’s Month, the message is clear:
True protection begins with health awareness.
A Continuing Commitment
As partnerships between civic organizations, healthcare advocates, and government units grow stronger, so does the movement toward a cancer-free future.
With leaders like Dr. Bogs Rivera and organizations like CerviQ at the helm, every seminar, every screening, and every conversation brings us one step closer to eliminating cervical cancer in the Philippines.
