THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region, through its Cancer Control Program and in partnership with Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center (CFERMTC) and the local government of Urdaneta City, conducted free cervical cancer screening and clinical breast examination services on May 26, 2026 in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan as part of its intensified campaign for women’s health and cancer prevention.
More than 300 women aged 25 to 65 years old who were not pregnant, not menstruating, and who had abstained from sexual contact for at least one day before screening availed themselves of the free services aimed at promoting early detection and timely treatment of cervical and breast cancer.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco underscored the importance of empowering women to prioritize preventive healthcare. “Every woman deserves the chance to live a healthy and productive life. Cervical and breast cancers are highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Through these free screening services, we are bringing hope, protection, and life-saving healthcare directly to our communities. We encourage women to take advantage of these opportunities because early detection saves lives,” Sydiongco stated.
She further emphasized that the Department remains committed to strengthening cancer prevention initiatives under Universal Health Care by ensuring accessible and equitable healthcare services, especially at the grassroots level.
“We want every Filipina to understand that taking time for screening is an act of self-care and courage. Huwag matakot magpasuri. Ang maagap na pagkilos ay makapagliligtas ng buhay,” she added.
Sydiongco continues to stress the importance of early screening as breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the Philippines.
Healthcare workers provided cervical cancer screening, clinical breast examinations, health counseling, and education sessions emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups and early consultation.
The activity forms part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to bring preventive healthcare services closer to communities and strengthen awareness on women’s cancers, which remain among the leading causes of illness and death among Filipino women.
The DOH Ilocos Region continues to call on local government units, healthcare workers, and communities to support sustained awareness campaigns, HPV vaccination efforts, and regular cancer screening activities to help reduce preventable cancer deaths in the region.
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