IN celebration of National Women’s Month, the Department of Health – Ilocos Region, led by the regional cancer control program, reinforced its commitment to women’s health by turning over a Thermal Ablation Machine to the OB-GYN Department of Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center.
The equipment will enhance the hospital’s capability to provide early treatment for cervical precancerous lesions—an important intervention that can prevent cervical cancer from developing when detected early.
The initiative highlights the Department’s ongoing efforts to protect women’s health and expand access to life-saving services throughout the Ilocos Region.
DOH Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco said the turnover is a meaningful step toward empowering women to take charge of their health.
“Women’s Month reminds us that caring for women’s health is caring for our families and communities. By equipping our hospitals with modern technologies such as thermal ablation, we are giving women better chances for early treatment and a healthier future,” Sydiongco said.
“Our message to every Ilokana is simple—prioritize your health, get screened, and seek early care. Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early,” she added.
Thermal ablation is a safe and effective procedure used to treat precancerous cervical lesions by applying controlled heat to abnormal cells. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer progression.
According to Francisco De Vera, Cervical Cancer Program Manager of DOH Ilocos, the availability of this equipment ensures that women who undergo screening can immediately receive treatment if needed.
“Early detection must always be paired with prompt treatment. With the thermal ablation machine now available at ITRMC, women diagnosed with precancerous lesions can receive timely intervention before the condition progresses to cancer. Other DOH hospitals in the region including Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMHMC) and Ilocos Sur Medical Center (ISMC) will also receive the same,” De Vera explained.
“This Women’s Month, we encourage women to take advantage of cervical cancer screening services available in our health facilities. Protecting women’s health is one of the most powerful ways we strengthen our communities,” he added.
Through the continuous modernization of regional hospitals and the expansion of preventive healthcare programs, the Department of Health – Ilocos Region reaffirms its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.
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