Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo has moved to intensify the city’s campaign against cervical cancer after local health data showed that fewer than two percent of eligible women in Naga have undergone screening in recent years.
The city government, through the City Health Office I, led the Cervical Cancer Elimination Summit 2026 on May 20 at the Summit Hotel, in partnership with the Department of Health and MSD Philippines. The summit gathered health officials, barangay health workers, barangay leaders, stakeholders, and partner groups to strengthen prevention strategies and widen access to screening, vaccination, and other essential health services.
Robredo said the city’s initiative to vaccinate female children and support immunization for women is a “gift for a healthy and safe future,” stressing that cervical cancer can be prevented through Human Papillomavirus vaccination and early screening.
“Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in Naga City, particularly in communities with limited awareness, understanding, and access to healthcare services,” Robredo said.
Data presented during the summit showed that screening coverage in most districts from 2020 to 2024 remained critically low, with rates below two percent. Officials also reported that only 43 percent of eligible adolescents received their HPV vaccine dose in 2024, with coverage dropping further to 40 percent in 2025.
Health authorities warned that the figures show Naga remains far from meeting World Health Organization targets for eliminating cervical cancer as a public health concern. They urged stronger coordination among government agencies, health providers, barangays, and communities to improve vaccination uptake and expand screening coverage.
DOH Undersecretary Glenn Matthew G. Baggao, who delivered the keynote address, said vaccination and early screening remain vital public health interventions to protect communities through preventive care.
Participating agencies and stakeholders also signed a pledge of commitment during the summit, reaffirming their support for intensified collaboration. The activity included the ceremonial vaccination of six young girls, symbolizing the city’s preventive approach to protecting women and girls from cervical cancer.
