MSD in the Philippines Brings Together Advocates to Broaden HPV Prevention for Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

MSD Together for Health on stage — The forum’s highlight is the “Sounding the Call for Elimination,” where government leaders, medical societies, patient groups, and advocates collectively struck a ceremonial gong symbolizing a unified commitment to strengthen cervical cancer prevention, screening, and treatment nationwide.

Under Presidential Proclamation No. 158, signed in 2002, May is officially recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in the Philippines. This year, MSD in the Philippines organized a multi-stakeholder forum “Together for Health: Towards a Cervical Cancer-Free Philippines.”

The forum brought together advocates from the local government, industry leaders, medical societies, and patient advocacy groups to reinforce the shared commitment to advance the Philippine roadmap towards cervical cancer elimination.

Eradication of Cervical Cancer is Possible

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common viral infection linked to several HPV-related diseases, causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer. HPV vaccination remains one of the highly effective ways to help prevent cervical cancer before exposure to high-risk HPV types occurs.This means that a future where cervical cancer no longer exists is possible through vaccination, early screening, and timely treatment.

To help achieve this goal by 2030, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 90-70-90 strategy calls for 90% of girls to be fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15, 70% of women to be screened using high-performance tests by ages 35 and 45, and 90% of women diagnosed with cervical disease to receive appropriate treatment and care.

International experts groups such as the Asia Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (AOFOG) have provided the regional guidelines in cervical cancer vaccination and screening to help countries catalyze and strengthen the efforts towards averting these cases.

The Challenge of Filipinas

Cervical cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths among women in the Philippines, with around 12 Filipinas dying from the disease every day. Many Filipinas still face barriers to accessing HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment services, particularly in underserved communities. Expanding vaccination coverage among school-aged girls remains critical in strengthening protection against cervical cancer, alongside growing discussions around broader and more inclusive approaches such as gender-neutral (or universal) vaccination.

Regular screening also enables earlier detection of precancerous changes in the cervix, while timely treatment and access to innovative medicines significantly improves outcomes for women diagnosed with cervical cancer. Newer technologies such as HPV DNA testing also help strengthen opportunities for earlier intervention and better detection of women at risk.

Broadening HPV Vaccination Access

There is increasing access to vaccination nationwide through schools, community health centers, hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. However, it was discussed during the forum that it is also important to ensure that those who may miss routine vaccination opportunities are not left behind by expanding the eligibility for the free HPV vaccination programs.

Several countries including Australia, Sweden, Scotland, and England have already strengthened their HPV prevention strategies through expanded catch-up vaccination programs for older age groups and have included males in their programs, which have led to broadened protection and reduction of HPV-related diseases. Health leaders noted that these global best practices demonstrate how inclusive and comprehensive vaccination strategies can support progress toward cervical cancer elimination.

Institutional Collective Effort

Cervical cancer prevention and HPV-related disease reduction continues to align with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 which promotes healthier choices, stronger preventive healthcare systems, and better protection for vulnerable sectors including women and children. These efforts also support the Magna Carta of Women, which upholds women’s right to comprehensive, gender-responsive, and accessible healthcare services across all stages of life.

Eliminating cervical cancer is not the work of one group alone. It demands sustained collaboration across government agencies, healthcare institutions, medical societies, local governments, civil society, academia, and private sector partners. Just as vital is the role of public awareness and community trust, which encourage more individuals to embrace preventive healthcare through vaccination and regular screening. These efforts create the foundation for lasting protection and progress toward a future free from cervical cancer.

Renewed Commitment to Sustained Action

The forum underscored a powerful message: awareness must lead to lasting action. Health leaders, advocates, and partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to eliminating cervical cancer through stronger partnerships and a whole-of-society approach. Together, they reaffirm their commitment and continue to work to protect more Filipinas with timely prevention, screening, and treatment while ensuring that communities are safeguarded against HPV and other HPV-related diseases.

PH-NON-01197

MSD, PHAPCares, and Project Red Ribbon Partner Up to Expand HIV Care Through HPV Prevention

MSD together for health — Championing PLHIV care and protection through HPV vaccination: Project Red Ribbon
President Ico Johnson, PHAPCares Foundation, Inc. Executive Director Dr. Maria Rosarita Siasoco, and
MSD Philippines Market Access and Corporate Affairs Director Karlo Paredes

HPV prevention is a vital step in protecting the health of People Living with HIV (PLHIVs). That’s why MSD Philippines, PHAPCares, and Project Red Ribbon have worked together to raise awareness and provide support to help ensure the long-term wellness of PLHIVs.

In 2025, MSD donated over 1,500 units of HPV vaccines to PHAPCares Foundation and they partnered with Project Red Ribbon to administer them. The prescribed three-dose HPV vaccination regimen was administered to immunocompromised individuals with all beneficiaries completing their final dose this June 2026.

This partnership supports the larger initiative of expanding HIV care initiatives to include HPV prevention. This is to help address immunocompromised individuals’ susceptibility to HPV-related diseases and cancers.

HPV Prevention Matters to PLHIV

Aside from providing vaccinations, the initiative also sought to address major gaps in awareness and access surrounding HPV prevention among PLHIV. “Many PLHIV and even some healthcare providers may not fully appreciate the heightened risk of HPV-related diseases in immunocompromised populations or the benefits of early vaccination and regular screening,” explains Dr. Maria Rosarita Siasoco, Executive Director of PHAPCares Foundation.

She also highlighted the ongoing challenge of accessibility. “HPV vaccines and related preventive services may not always be readily available within HIV programs,” Dr. Siasoco said. “By supporting this initiative, PHAPCares aimed to bridge these gaps through targeted education, advocacy, and collaboration.”

MSD Market Access and Corporate Affairs Director Karlo Paredes said there still remains limited awareness that HPV vaccination is also critical for men and other vulnerable populations. “Contrary to the common belief that HPV vaccination only benefits women, there are many population groups that would benefit, especially people living with HIV.”

A Growing Public Health Concern

The joint initiative comes at a critical time as the Philippines continues to face one of the fastest-growing HIV surges in the Asia-Pacific region. Healthcare advocates emphasized that while HIV treatment remains essential, preventive interventions such as HPV vaccination must also become part of comprehensive HIV care.

Dr. Siasoco emphasized that the Philippines’ rapidly increasing HIV cases make prevention initiatives even more urgent. “HIV cases in the Philippines require urgent attention and action as the country faces one of the fastest-growing HIV surges in the Asia-Pacific region. We also look beyond the data, because to us, HIV cases are not just numbers. We have seen and spoken with people living with HIV and their families. They are close to our hearts because they need support and protection,” Dr. Siasoco explained.

Partners in Action

The collaboration between the three organizations has proven to be valuable in raising awareness on how to improve the quality of care for PLHIVs. Dr. Siasoco said that the initiative aligns closely with the PHAPCares mission of improving access to life-saving healthcare innovations and ensuring that underserved sectors are not left behind in disease prevention efforts.

Project Red Ribbon President Ico Johnson also said that being able to provide the HPV vaccines to PLHIVs supported their organization’s core advocacy of providing holistic client-centered care. “Our mission is to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV, as HIV care should go beyond treatment alone and include protection from other sexually transmitted infections and related health risks,” Johnson said.

Accessibility is Empowerment

For Project Red Ribbon, the initiative reflects a continuing effort to expand conversations around sexual health, STI prevention, and long-term wellness for PLHIV. Johnson shared that Project Red Ribbon and My Hub Cares have also expanded services to include HPV-related consultations and treatment services alongside HIV care and advocacy programs. “Education is not enough,” Johnson reiterates. “People also need access to actual services. That is how advocacy becomes meaningful.”

MSD’s Paredes added that the success of the initiative demonstrates the importance of improving vaccine access for vulnerable communities. “Finishing all 1,500 doses within one year proves that when access is provided, people will come forward and commit to protecting their health,” he said.

As the initiative concluded its first phase, the stakeholders expressed hope that the project will pave the way for broader discussions on integrating preventive services such as HPV vaccination into HIV treatment programs nationwide

PH-NON-01198

MSD’s ‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ Bags Bronze at the 2025 ICE Awards for Advocacy Excellence

December 15, 2025

MSD in the Philippines’ ‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ campaign has been awarded Bronze in the Advocacy category at
this year’s ICE Awards, a distinguished program led by the Media Specialists Association of the Philippines
(MSAP). The recognition celebrates the campaign’s breakthrough approach in shifting public perception
on HPV and cervical cancer prevention, further strengthening MSD’s position as a leading voice in
protecting the health and well-being of all people at risk of HPV-related diseases.

The ICE (Innovation, Creativity, and Effectiveness) Awards, now on its fifth run, honors outstanding media
thinking and communication across seven categories: Single Medium, Multimedia, Activation, Advocacy,
Data, Branded Content, and Regional. Judging is evenly weighted across innovation, creativity, and
effectiveness, with this year marking its most competitive cycle yet: 268 entries, and 165 campaigns
emerging as finalists and winners across industries including FMCG, real estate, communications, and
technology.

A Campaign That Moved Filipinos From Awareness to Action

‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ distinguished itself through a powerful, culturally tuned approach that helped elevate
cervical cancer conversations among Filipino families. Through an extensive out-of-home (OOH) presence,
spanning indoor LEDs, lamp post banners, lightboxes, and bus wraps, the campaign turned HPV awareness
and its call to action into a constant reminder woven into the day-to-day commute.

Beyond visibility, the campaign resonated where it mattered most: in the choices people make. It sparked
thousands of conversations, inspired organic sharing within communities, and encouraged more Filipinos
to seek credible information about HPV and cervical cancer. This shift in curiosity and behavior translated
into higher awareness and a more proactive mindset toward vaccination and screening.
Ultimately, ‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ proved that when advocacy speaks the language of the people, it can create
real momentum, moving Filipinos from passive awareness to meaningful action in safeguarding their
health.

Strengthening the Fight Against HPV and Cervical Cancer

This achievement underscores MSD’s unwavering commitment to HPV prevention and the global mission
of cervical cancer elimination. Through long-running initiatives such as Guard Against HPV, nationwide
education efforts, and partnerships with healthcare experts and institutions, MSD continues to empower
families with timely, science-based information. The company remains aligned with the World Health
Organization (WHO) targets for 90-70-90, advocating for early protection, accessible screening, and
equitable care for all.

As MSD continues its work to protect more communities, Filipinos are encouraged to learn more about
HPV, prevention options, and cervical cancer through Guard Against HPV (https://guardagainsthpv.ph/),
a dedicated resource hub offering tools, stories, and guidance to help families make informed decisions.
The ICE Award win stands as a testament to what purposeful communication can achieve: a nation one
step closer to a future where HPV is no longer a threat to people of all genders, and where cervical cancer
becomes a preventable disease rather than a life-limiting reality for Filipino families.

Hope From Within Marks a Decade of Advocacy on Patient Safety Day: A Stronger Call for Accessible Cancer Care for All Filipinos

New ‘Let’s Talk Lung’ chatbot soon to be unveiled as latest tool to empower patients and caregivers

October 8, 2025

Marking a Decade of Commitment: MSD employees, together with the Hope From Within community, medical societies, patient groups, and advocacy partners, came together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Hope From Within in line with World Patient Safety Day. The milestone underscores a shared mission of advancing cancer awareness, access, and patient safety for more hopeful tomorrows.

On Patient Safety Day this September, Hope From Within (HFW), a multi-stakeholder cancer advocacy campaign spearheaded by MSD in the Philippines, marks its 10th anniversary with a renewed commitment to place Filipino cancer patients front and center of healthcare solutions.

The Hope From Within logo.

The milestone celebration calls for intensified action to close persistent gaps in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment access across the country.

Since its inception in 2015, HFW has been at the forefront of efforts to redefine cancer care through education, patient empowerment, and policy advocacy. Over the years, the platform has reached more than 20 million Filipinos, mobilizing communities, patient groups, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to work together toward the full implementation and funding of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA).

“Every Filipino cancer patient deserves the best possible chance, not just to survive, but to live well,” said Andreas Riedel, President and Managing Director of MSD in the Philippines. “Hope From Within was founded on the belief that patients should always be at the heart of healthcare decisions. Ten years on, our mission is stronger than ever: to find real solutions that close the cancer care gap, make treatment accessible, and give every patient the dignity of hope.”

Advocating for Patient Safety and Advancing Precision Medicine

Patient Safety Day 2025 highlights that true safety in cancer care means more than preventing harm, it requires timely diagnosis, affordable treatment, and equitable access to innovative therapies. For many Filipinos, these remain out of reach, creating urgent gaps in care that HFW seeks to close.

Hope From Within has become more than a campaign, it is a movement that opens doors for patients,” added Allan Ancheta, Business Unit Director for Oncology at MSD in the Philippines. “Whether it’s supporting access to early screening, expanding treatment options, or building partnerships that empower communities, HFW has been about making quality cancer care a reality for more Filipinos. Our commitment is to continue breaking barriers so no patient is left behind.

Through initiatives such as Cancer Game Plan PH and Tita Hope Talks, HFW has pushed for stronger healthcare infrastructure, better financing models, and sustained cancer assistance funds. Building on these efforts, HFW expanded into precision medicine with the launch of the “Hit the Mark” campaign in 2024. The initiative brings together patient groups, medical societies, laboratories, and healthcare companies to champion equitable access to biomarker testing and personalized treatment for lung cancer patients.

Initially launched with Hi-Precision Diagnostics, Hit the Mark has recently welcomed Detoxicare Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory as a partner. With one unified form, eligible patients can now access lung cancer biomarker tests, including EGFR and PD-L1, with convenience, giving oncologists critical tools to recommend the most appropriate treatment options from the start.

“We cannot talk about patient safety without addressing accessibility,” Riedel emphasized. “Safety is compromised when treatment is delayed or denied. That is why we continue working with partners to strengthen the cancer care continuum, whether through financing reforms, awareness campaigns, or biomarker testing so that every Filipino patient gets the care they need, when they need it.”

Empowering Patients with Digital Tools

In line with its mission to provide patient-centered resources, HFW is also launching soon Let’s Talk Lung, a new AI-powered chatbot available on the campaign’s website. The chatbot offers patients, caregivers, and the public quick, reliable answers to questions about lung cancer, from understanding symptoms and diagnostic tests.

This digital innovation builds on HFW’s award-winning platform, expanding its capacity to empower patients with accurate, accessible, and easy-to-understand information anytime, anywhere.

A Decade of Impact, A Future of Possibilities

From championing the passage of NICCA in 2019 to helping secure increased cancer assistance funding in recent years, HFW’s decade-long journey reflects the power of sustained advocacy. With partners across government, healthcare, and patient communities, MSD in the Philippines is committed to driving forward a single, unifying goal: equitable, comprehensive, and safe cancer care for every Filipino.

“Ten years is just the beginning,” Riedel concluded. “We will keep working until every Filipino patient feels seen, heard, and supported, and until no one has to fight cancer alone.”

Our COVID-19 response

Archives: Stories