Around 1,000 participants gathered before dawn on May 25, 2025, at Parqal Mall in ASEANA City, Parañaque, to take part in the “Run Against Cervical Cancer” (RACC). Organized by MSD Philippines and the Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), the advocacy event brought together individuals from all walks of life—families, cancer survivors, medical professionals, and health advocates—to champion awareness and prevention efforts for cervical cancer.
The run underscored the urgent need to talk about this disease, which continues to impact thousands of Filipinas annually. As teal-shirted runners took to the streets, they carried with them the message that cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable, especially with timely action.
Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting Filipino women. According to data, 7,897 new cases are diagnosed annually, and 4,052 women die each year—equivalent to 12 Filipinas lost every day to a largely preventable disease.
The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination against HPV, especially among girls aged 9 to 14, significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life. However, vaccination coverage in the country remains low, hindered by misinformation, limited access, and lack of awareness.
Beyond the statistics are the human stories that put a face to the advocacy. Former national football player and coach Belay Fernando-Dela Cruz is a survivor of Stage 3B cervical cancer. She likened the run to her cancer journey: at times solitary, at times supported, but always demanding perseverance. “Sometimes you’re running alone, sometimes with others. But what matters is showing up and staying the course,” she shared.
Another powerful voice was media personality Andi Manzano, whose mother was diagnosed with early-stage cervical cancer. “It’s scary when someone you love is diagnosed—it changes your perspective,” she said. “As parents, we have the power to protect our children. Getting the vaccine is a step toward lifelong protection.”
Teodoro “Ted” Padilla, Executive Director of PHAP, highlighted that the event goes beyond completing a race—it’s about creating a movement. “Our journey started in schools, but it must go further. We want households and communities to be equally informed and protected,” he said.
MSD Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel closed the event with a powerful reminder: “Cervical cancer is preventable. The solutions are here—vaccination, screening, and treatment. What we need now is action. Together, we can build a future where cervical cancer no longer threatens the lives of Filipino women.”
