Photo shows Mayor Art Jhun Marasign (6th from left), together with Andreas Ridel (7th from left), the new President and Managing Director of MSD in the Philippines, during the HPV immunization drive in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Joining them in photo are Dr. Arnielyn Aguirre (8th from left), Sto. Tomas HEPU Adviser, Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurige-Perez (5th from left), and members of the City Council of Sto. Tomas.
THE City of Sto. Tomas in Batangas is making headlines for its proactive approach to combating cervical cancer. Through the “SHEmpre Ligtas” program, the city is expanding its HPV vaccination program to include 14-year-old girls, a crucial age group often missed by existing government initiatives.
To supplement the government’s allocation, the city has procured 1,763 additional doses of HPV vaccines to ensure that all eligible girls receive the vaccine. This proactive measure underscores the city’s commitment to the health and well-being of its young residents.
Dr. Arnielyn Aguirre (front row, left, standing), Sto. Tomas HEPU Adviser, is shown here together with the student beneficiaries of HPV vaccines courtesy of Mayor Art Jhun Marasign (standing, 2nd from left), Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurige-Perez (standing 4th from left), and members of the City Council of Sto. Tomas. At the back (far left, standing) is Andreas Ridel, the new President and Managing Director of MSD in the Philippines.
This move also addresses a critical gap in the Department of Health (DOH)’s program, which primarily targets girls aged 9 to 11. By also vaccinating 14-year-old girls, Sto. Tomas ensures comprehensive protection against cervical cancer before the age of 15, during which time the vaccination regimen becomes more complex and costly.
“When I first assumed office, there were no dedicated cancer prevention programs in our city,” said Mayor Art Jhun Marasigan. “This initiative ensures that every Tomasino girl now has access to life-saving vaccines.”
Benefits for Sto. Tomas residents:
- Reduced cervical cancer risk: The expanded vaccination program significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer, a leading cause of death among women in the Philippines.
- Improved healthcare access: Sto. Tomas is providing free access to the HPV vaccine, a significant cost-saver for families.
- Empowering young women: The program empowers young girls with knowledge about their health and encourages them to prioritize preventive care.
- Setting a precedent: Sto. Tomas is serving as a model for other LGUs to follow in the fight against cervical cancer, demonstrating the effectiveness of localized healthcare solutions.
“With strong political will and community involvement, we can vaccinate 9 to 14-year-olds and fight cervical cancer more effectively,” said Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurige-Perez. Dr. Arnielyn Aguirre, a physician and HEPU Adviser, agrees, adding, “Education and early intervention are key, so this holiday gift from the city government – the gift of HPV vaccines – is truly timely.”
Photo shows a bird’s eye view of Mayor Art Jhun Marasign (onstage, foreground) as he delivers his keynote speech during the “SHEmpre Ligtas: Sapat na Kaalaman ng Kabataan sa Malusog na Hinaharap” HPV vaccination activity held at the Sto. Tomas City Hall in Batangas.
The “SHEmpre Ligtas” program aligns with the city’s comprehensive Student Health Education Program (SHEProgram), which focuses on improving the overall health and well-being of young people.
By prioritizing vaccination, education, and partnerships with healthcare providers, Sto. Tomas is paving the way for a future where cervical cancer is no longer a significant threat to its residents. This initiative serves as a powerful example of how local governments can play a crucial role in improving public health outcomes.
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