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

MSD in the Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel, Vaccines Business Unit Director Ethel Calma, and the team behind the ‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ campaign celebrate its Bronze win at the 2025 ICE Awards, recognizing MSD’s continued commitment to advancing HPV awareness and prevention in the Philippines.

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.

ICE Award
The Bronze Award for ‘Di Mo DeCERV!’ highlights the campaign’s impact in raising national
awareness on HPV and cervical cancer prevention, bringing the country closer to a future free from HPV-related
diseases.


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 

 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.”

MSD Philippines Receives Recognition at Inaugural AmCham Corporate Social Impact Awards

Honored for Community Impact and Engagement through Inclusive Programs and Employee-Driven Advocacy 

MSD Philippines won Bronze in the inaugural Corporate Social Impact Awards of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Philippines. In the photo are U.S. Ambassador Mary Kay Carlson (second from left), MSD Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel (second from right), AmCham Philippines Executive Director Ebb Hinchliffe (rightmost), and the rest of the winners in the “Community Impact and Engagement” category.

MSD in the Philippines has earned Bronze in the “Community Impact and Engagement” category  at the inaugural Corporate Social Impact Awards presented by the American Chamber of  Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham). The recognition affirms the company’s commitment to  help promote social impact by advancing initiatives that empower its workforce to purposeful work  and build meaningful community engagement . 

MSD’s winning program highlights three key initiatives : 

  • Employee Business Resource Groups (EBRGs) that foster a safe, inclusive, and  empowering workplace; 
  • MSD Gives Back, the company’s employee volunteerism program granting 40 hours of paid  volunteer time annually; and 
  • The Richard T. Clark (RTC) Fellowship for Global Health, which saw its first Philippine  1 deployment in 2024 r through a cervical cancer screening project in Iloilo  

“This recognition belongs to all our employees who have gone above and beyond to help improve  the lives of the communities we serve through a variety of efforts including health education,  capacity building, disaster response, and environment conservation,” said Andreas Riedel,  President and Managing Director of MSD Philippines.  

“We remain committed to building a corporate culture where employees feel connected to purpose,  valued and included, one with the team, and empowered to grow and make a difference in the  community,” he added.  

MSD’s Employee Business Resource Groups (EBRGs) Rainbow Alliance, Women’s Network, and  Next Generation Network, provide platforms for dialogue, representation, and leadership development across generations and identities. These groups have helpedshape internal policies (such as inclusive healthcare benefits for same-gender and common-law partners), and continue  to spark external initiatives that bridge MSD employees with causes they care about deeply. 

In 2024, MSD employees in the Philippines rendered over 2,000 hours of community service, from  coastal cleanups and learning sessions with underserved students to feeding programs and crisis  response efforts across the country  

The AmCham Corporate Social Impact Awards recognized companies for outstanding  contributions across five categories, underscoring the private sector’s vital role in shaping a more  inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Philippines. 

“As a company that has been committed to contribute continued progress for healthcare in the Philippines for over 30 years, we aim to continue empowering our employees to help uplift  communities through social impact initiatives that promote health equity, education, environmental  protection, and relevant causes.” concluded Riedel. 

MSD Lauded for Lifesaving Vaccine Work at PFV’s 25th Anniversary

Recognition comes as MSD marks 30 years of impact in the Philippines


Manila, Philippines – MSD Philippines was honored with a Special Recognition Award by the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV) during the foundation’s 25th anniversary celebration on April 24, 2025. 

PVF recognized MSD’s contributions to vaccine research, development, safety monitoring, and its role in advancing immunization and public health.

Presented by the PFV leadership, the award commended MSD for “revolutionizing the field of immunization and improving global health,” as well as for its “exceptional work in vaccine safety monitoring and surveillance, ensuring continued safety and efficacy of vaccines.”

The recognition is especially meaningful as MSD celebrates its 30th anniversary in the Philippines this year, marking three decades of commitment to delivering innovative health solutions and fostering partnerships to address the country’s most pressing health needs.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination,” said Andreas Riedel, President and Managing Director of MSD in the Philippines.

“This award reaffirms our purpose: to use the power of science to save and improve lives. As we celebrate 30 years in the Philippines, we remain committed to working alongside the government, healthcare providers, and communities to expand access to vaccines and help build a healthier nation.”

“The thrust of our work in the Philippines goes beyond delivering medicines and vaccines,” Riedel added. “It’s about putting the patients first and above all, and helping create a future where preventable diseases no longer threaten the well-being of Filipinos. We look forward to the next chapter of shared progress and innovation.”

Throughout its three decades in the Philippines, MSD has been at the forefront of introducing life-saving vaccines and supporting health initiatives focused on disease prevention and health system strengthening. The company continues to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure vaccines reach those who need them most.

The PFV is a key partner in promoting vaccine awareness and education in the Philippines. Its 25th anniversary celebration highlighted the collective efforts of organizations and institutions working to improve immunization coverage and public health outcomes nationwide.

Our People

Health at Your Fingertips: MSD’s Commitment to Employee Well-being Through Office Vaccinations

September 27, 2024

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msd office vaccination drive

MSD Philippines has demonstrated a strong commitment to employee well-being through its comprehensive office vaccination program, which has been instrumental in fostering a healthier workplace. The initiative, which involved three rounds of vaccinations within their Philippine headquarters, underscores the company’s dedication to safeguarding the health of its employees. The first vaccination event took place on March 20, 2024, with the administration of HPV vaccine. This was followed by the second round on May 28, 2024, and the third on July 31, 2024. Over 250 employees participated in these events, receiving a range of vaccines that included both MSD and non-MSD products. This program not only highlights the company’s proactive approach to health but also reflects its broader commitment to the well-being of its workforce.

The office vaccination initiative was organized under the leadership of the Women’s Network, a key Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG) within MSD, as part of their strategic focus on “Business Integration and Insights.” This initiative was particularly inspired by the need to raise awareness about health issues, starting with Cervical Cancer Awareness Day and extending into a broader vaccination campaign. The decline in employee vaccination uptake after the shift to a partner clinic was identified as a critical issue that needed to be addressed. The Women’s Network, in collaboration with various business units, sought to overcome these barriers and make vaccination more accessible and affordable.

The office vaccination program is a testament to MSD’s holistic approach to employee health. By addressing the financial and logistical barriers to vaccination, the initiative ensured that employees could easily access the necessary vaccines. A key solution was the collaboration with a retailer licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct mobile vaccinations, making it convenient for employees and their families to get vaccinated. Additionally, the Office Cooperative played a crucial role by partnering with the vaccine provider to make vaccines more accessible. This allowed employees to benefit from the upfront payment arrangement, with the option of reimbursing the amount through salary deductions via the Cooperative. These measures reflect MSD’s commitment to fostering a supportive and health-conscious workplace environment.

The inspiration for this vaccination initiative stemmed from a sobering reality: cervical cancer, one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, still claims the lives of 12 Filipinas daily. The Women’s Network, recognizing the urgent need for preventive measures, was motivated to take proactive steps to empower women by prioritizing their health. The initiative, which initially focused on HPV vaccination, quickly expanded to include a comprehensive range of vaccines. The involvement of the Human Resource partners, as well as other EBRGs, such as the Next Generation Network and Rainbow Alliance, in this collaborative effort further enhanced the program’s reach and impact. This collective endeavor not only promotes significant health benefits for employees, but reinforces the company’s role as a leader in healthcare.

The vaccination program also garnered positive feedback from the participants, who expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Employees highlighted the program’s convenience and the sense of security it provided. Testimonials from vaccinated employees reveal a deep appreciation for the accessibility and organization of the vaccination events. Many participants emphasized that the easy access to vaccines and the financial support provided through the Cooperative were significant motivators for their participation. Moreover, the program’s success was further amplified by the educational aspect, as employees were able to learn more about the importance of vaccines and the diseases they prevent, which encouraged them to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health.

One of the most notable outcomes of the program was its impact on the families of MSD employees. The program’s reach extended beyond the workplace, as employees brought their family members to participate in the vaccination events. Testimonials from participants’ relatives, such as nieces and nephews, highlighted their positive experiences and the convenience of receiving vaccinations at the office. The program not only provided immediate health benefits but also played a crucial role in educating younger family members about the importance of vaccination, thereby fostering a culture of health consciousness within the community. The program’s success in engaging both employees and their families underscores the effectiveness of MSD’s approach to promoting health and wellness.

The choice of vaccines offered during the office vaccination rounds was strategic and comprehensive. This selection ensured that employees had access to vaccines that addressed a wide range of health concerns, from preventing cervical cancer and shingles to protecting against pneumococcal diseases and influenza. The diversity of the vaccine offerings reflects MSD’s commitment to a holistic approach to health, ensuring that employees are protected against multiple diseases that could impact their well-being and productivity.

The program’s success can be attributed to the collaborative efforts within MSD. The involvement of various EBRGs and business units, coupled with the support of the Office Cooperative and the logistics provided by the licensed retailer, ensured that the vaccination events were well-organized and effectively executed. This collaboration not only facilitated the smooth implementation of the program but also ensured that the initiative was aligned with MSD’s broader goals of employee well-being and business integration. The successful execution of this initiative serves as a model for other companies looking to implement similar health programs, demonstrating the importance of collaboration and employee-centered solutions.

By promoting the uptake of vaccines among employees and their families, the program contributed to a more robust and proactive approach to health within the company. The program thus serves as a dual success story, enhancing both employee well-being and business outcomes, and reinforcing MSD’s reputation as a leader in healthcare.

The office vaccination program conducted by MSD in the Philippines stands as a remarkable example of the company’s dedication to employee well-being and health. Through strategic planning, collaboration, and a focus on overcoming barriers to vaccination, MSD successfully reintroduced workplace vaccination and ensured that its employees could easily access and afford life-saving vaccines. The positive feedback from participants and the program’s impact on both employees and their families highlight the initiative’s success in fostering a healthier and more informed workforce. MSD’s commitment to this initiative reflects its broader values of care, collaboration, and a proactive approach to health, setting a standard for employee wellness programs in the corporate world.

Our People

Call on our industry partners to join the fight against Cervical Cancer

July 9, 2024

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In the Philippines, every two hours, a Filipina dies from cervical cancer. It is the second most frequent cancer among Filipino women and girls, particularly those in the prime of their lives (from 15 to 44 years of age). Every day, an estimated 12 Filipinas die from this disease, with more than 4,000 lives lost, yearly.1 Each devastating death of a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend is an unnecessary loss. Unnecessary, because the knowledge and tools to prevent and even eliminate cervical cancer are available. Cervical cancer is preventable, through vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus behind 99.7% of Cervical Cancer2. Screening and early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and can save lives. 

The health care industry, and the business community at large, role in giving women- who hold “half-the-sky” in the workplace and in our communities– a stronger shield against this preventable disease.  

As a company that puts patients at the center of everything we do, MSD is committed to our role in the fight against cervical cancer—using the power of leading-edge science to bring innovation in cancer care, from prevention to treatment. 

Moreover, as part of One Community Against Cervical Cancer, we have strengthened our strategic collaboration with leaders from the government, the medical community, the private sector, and patient groups to advance cervical cancer elimination in the Philippines. Working with a community of advocates, our efforts are focused on ensuring access—to information, life-saving vaccines and medicines, and diagnostics and care—for every person at risk of cervical cancer. 

A shared commitment: public-private partnerships

The Philippines is one of 194 countries that in 2020 committed to the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer,3 based on three pillars and their corresponding targets: vaccinating 90% of girls with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15; screening 70% of women using a high-performance test by the age of 35, and again by the age of 45; and treating 90% of women with pre-cancer and 90% of women with invasive cancer.

Gynecologic cancers, such as cancer of the cervix, are included among the eight cancer types that the Department of Health (DOH) has prioritized. The National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA or Republic Act 11215), signed into law on 14 February 2019, also allows for a comprehensive cancer control program and a Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF), aimed toward reducing incidence and mortality rates from preventable cancers, making cancer care and treatment more affordable and accessible, and supporting cancer survivors in their recovery and reintegration to society. 

We support and share in the government’s aims, and have advocated for the earliest interventions, such as re-doubling efforts at prevention, long before there is a need for treatment. MSD participates in the national immunization drive spearheaded by the DOH, with the assistance of the Department of Education (for school-based inoculation against HPV) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (for community-based inoculation against HPV). To protect women and children, we have supported capacity-building efforts for local government unit (LGU
)-led immunization programs across the Philippines including Banna in Ilocos Norte, the first municipality in the Philippines to achieve a 91.16% vaccination rate of girls aged 9 to 14 years. This unprecedented achievement by a fourth-class municipality is proof positive that the national goal to achieve the 90-70-90 targets is indeed possible. 

MSD in the Philippines is working with both public and private partners to advocate for prioritization and proper implementation of the national cancer control program, towards a cervical cancer-free Philippines. Most recently, MSD partnered with the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) to organize the forum, “Together for Health: Making a United Stand Against Cervical Cancer,”  on 5 April 2024, gathering champions to share survivors’ stories, raise awareness, and call for concrete and effective action. 

In time for Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, MSD also hosted the 1st Philippine Cervical Cancer Elimination Summit: One Community Against HPV on 16 May 2024, gathering stakeholders—among them the United Action Against Cervical Cancer Taskforce Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, the Philippine Society of Pharmacist Vaccinators, Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, patient advocacy groups, and LGUs—to pledge their commitments and contributions to achieving the 90-70-90 targets. 

This was followed by the cervical cancer awareness event, “Cervical Cancer: Di mo DeCerv” on 26 May 2024, bringing together medical organizations, patient communities, and healthcare companies to amplify the advocacy. No one deserves to suffer from cervical cancer, and they shouldn’t—we can help not just those at risk of contracting cervical cancer, the women and girls, but also those who can transmit HPV which leads to cervical cancer, and that includes the male population. 

Walk the talk: start in your own workplace

It is heartening to see that the lead government agencies are advocating HPV vaccination and, as of May, HPV DNA testing as well, kickstarting screening services within their own workforce.4 What about private sector leadership? 

Private companies in the Philippines play a significant role in addressing the burden of cervical cancer, by spreading awareness, promoting vaccination, and soliciting support for the campaign against HPV and cervical cancer, starting with our own employees

Anchored on the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Labor Advisory No. 20, “Guidelines on the Implementation of the Workplace Policy and Program on Cancer Prevention and Control in the Private Sector,” which was released on 15 September 2023, developing a Cancer Prevention and Control in the Workplace Policy and Program (workplace CPCPP) institutionalizes safety nets for employees in terms of health education and prevention; access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment; and return to work, compensation, and other social policies. Adopting a well-crafted workplace CPCPP will help promote a safe and healthy lifestyle among employees, and reinforce good habits through the conduct of awareness campaigns. 

In our company, we prioritize addressing health risks by ensuring that our own MSD employees, and by extension, their dependents, can avail of life-saving vaccines. To date, we have protected hundreds of employees and their dependents, from HPV, pneumococcal infections, shingles and influenza. The cancer-preventive HPV vaccine is especially critical for female employees at risk of contracting cervical cancer, including those in their 30s and 40s, among the most productive years at work. 

At MSD, we are dedicated to supporting people living and working with cancer. We support and have initiated cancer awareness campaigns that not only help destigmatize cancer but also encourage flexible accommodations benefiting cancer patients and survivors in the workplace. We take our cues from the head office, an accredited CEO Cancer Gold Standard employer, and a founding member of the Working with Cancer pledge, to help provide a more open, supportive and recovery-forward culture at work. Actively listening to our colleagues who are cancer patients, and understanding their needs, will further refine polices that allow them to feel more secure at work, such that they do not need to worry about their jobs on top of worrying for their lives. 

The road to cervical cancer elimination in the Philippines 

Eliminating cervical cancer in the Philippines- through the 90-70-90 strategy requires concerted and accelerated commitment and action from all sectors, and we in the business community continue to play a more active role in its realization- as many of those impacted are women in the workplace. By getting involved in public dialogue, awareness and education drives, and implementation efforts led by the Department of Health, medical societies, industry organizations and patient groups, we can better support, and give Filipinas, hope for a cervical-cancer free future.   

Health Awareness

Survivors, medical organizations empowered against cervical cancer at ‘Di Mo DeCerv event

June 7, 2024

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More Filipinos need knowledge about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer.

Cancer survivor and former athlete and coach Belay De la Cruz-Fernandez said as much during her talk at a recent cervical cancer awareness event, titled “Cervical Cancer: Di mo DeCerv.”

“I recalled seeing billboards by the Department of Health from before, saying “magpabakuna laban sa HPV.” We didn’t know what HPV was, but the information was out there! If I had understood it then, maybe things would have been different. While I’m still grateful to be able to talk about my experience, let’s remember that 12 Filipinas die from cervical cancer every day,” Belay said, emphasizing further that this matter needs to be prioritized.

Belay was one of the panelists at this milestone event that brought together medical organizations, patient communities, and the public in a shared mission to combat cervical cancer in the Philippines. 

Celebrity and influencer Andi Manzano-Reyes, another panelist, discussed how her advocacy to raise awareness around cervical cancer was inspired by her mother, a survivor herself. “My mom was diagnosed with cervical cancer ten years ago, which is why I became an advocate to encourage people to get vaccinated,” she said. Andi, a mother to three daughters, expressed that she making sure that her children get immunized against HPV-related diseases, too.

In line with this, the ‘Di Mo DeCerv event also spotlighted the availability of HPV vaccines in local pharmacies to promote better access to immunization against HPV-related diseases. This development opens up new avenues for individuals to get preventive care in familiar community settings.

“With pharmacies serving as accessible hubs for healthcare services, individuals can now easily incorporate HPV vaccination into their routine visits. We are removing potential barriers such as transportation issues or scheduling constraints,” said Makati Medical Center Pharmacy Services Department Head Hazel Docuyanan.

The event also saw the support of medical organization partners including Maxicare, Makati Medical Center, Mercury Drug, Life Saver, Hello Doctor, SouthStar Drug, Juan Medical, Travertine, CerviQ, Vaxcen, Kindred, JCI, and ZP Therapeutics, who all helped promote public health awareness and broad access to HPV vaccination and education.

Dr. Mary Anne Galang-Escalona, Country Medical Lead, MSD in the Philippines

Biopharmaceutical company MSD in the Philippines, who spearheaded the event, shared that they will continue their ongoing initiatives to support vaccination drives, improve access to screening services, and launch public education campaigns aimed at reducing the incidence of cervical cancer. 

These efforts are in line with the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 initiative to eliminate cervical cancer: where 90% of girls are fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15; 70% of women are screened using a high-performance test by the age of 35, and again by the age of 45; and 90% of women with pre-cancer are treated and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed.

Awareness and action events like ‘Di Mo DeCerv continue to urge Filipinos to become advocates for positive change within their communities, and to continue the fight against cervical cancer for a healthy Philippines.

Health Awareness

Race Against Time: Stakeholders Calls for Accelerated Efforts to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in the Philippines

June 7, 2024

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We Must Act Now. That’s the resounding call of stakeholders at the 1st Philippine Cervical Cancer Elimination Summit, titled “One Community Against HPV,” to address the urgent need for accelerated efforts to achieve a cervical cancer-free Philippines. 

Cervical cancer elimination in the Philippines is indeed possible if the country can meet its 90-70-90 targets based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global strategy. This goal rests on three key pillars: vaccinating 90% of girls with the HPV vaccine by age 15, screening 70% of women with high-performance tests by ages 35-45, and treating 90% of women with pre-cancer and invasive cancer.

Unfortunately, the Philippines is severely lagging behind these targets, with only 4% of the target cohort having received their first dose of the HPV vaccine and a mere 1% of the country’s population completing the recommended doses. 

“Based on mathematical models, the Philippines is set to achieve cervical cancer elimination between 2071 and 2098,” said Ms. Frances Ngo of the UP National Institutes of Health (NIH). “This model will not work if we are going to maintain our status quo; we need to be on track of our 90-70-90 targets if we’re going to eliminate cervical cancer within this century.”

Lives behind numbers

Ms. Frances Ngo from UP-NIH with co-panelists Dr. John Wong from EpiMetrics and Ms. Eden Lucero, cancer survivor discussing the NIH’s mathematical metrics guide for Cervical Cancer Elimination

Experts at the summit emphasized that meeting these targets is crucial to reducing cervical cancer incidence to less than 4 per 100,000 women, which is the threshold for elimination. They stressed that urgent action is needed, as cervical cancer remains a significant public health threat in the Philippines, claiming 12 lives daily and putting almost 40 million Filipino women at risk.

This tragic reality doesn’t have to be the case since 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can easily be prevented through HPV immunization of women as early as 9 years old.

Race against time

HPV vaccines are most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, which typically occurs through sexual activity. By vaccinating girls and young women early, preferably before they become sexually active, the Philippines can protect its women against the most common cancer-causing HPV genotypes.

Dr. John Wong, Chair and President of Epimetrics, highlights the urgent need to immunize women and speed up the awareness drive in the country. Like any virus, HPV strains adapt and evolve. Although vaccines targeting cancer-causing strains of HPV are now available, Dr. Wong warns that delaying vaccination efforts could lead to the emergence of new, potentially more dangerous HPV strains.

“We need to administer vaccines quickly. As time passes, the genotypes change,” said Dr. John Wong. “Our current nonavalent vaccine is effective, but who knows, maybe in the next 9 years, it will be difficult. There’s really an urgency to accelerate our efforts.” 

Nothing is impossible

Mayor Chrislyn Abadilla explained how Banna, Ilocos Norte achieved a 90% HPV vaccination rate among their eligible groups.

Mayor Chrislyn Abadilla of Banna, Ilocos Norte, demonstrated to the summit that achieving a 90% HPV vaccination rate is possible, with her municipality successfully vaccinated 91.16% of the total cohort of girls aged 9 to 14 years old– making Banna the first municipality in the Philippines to achieve the target.

“It is about pushing ourselves to the limit for this health advocacy for our people,” said Mayor Chrislyn Adabilla. “If a small town in Ilocos Norte could do it, any other municipality could do it too. Other cities have more resources and better manpower.”

By allocating the necessary resources for healthcare advocacy and unwavering political will, Mayor Abadilla and her team were able to overcome challenges and ensure that the majority of their constituents were protected against cervical cancer.

Whole-of-society approach

(From L to R) Mr. John Lesaca, renowned musician and cancer advocate, Dr. Fernan Macrin Ramos, Assistant Head

City Health Office, Sto. Tomas Batangas, Dr. Marthony Basco, City Health Officer, Valenzuela City, Mayor Rozzano Rufino B. Biazon, Muntinlupa City, Mayor Chrislyn Abadilla, Banna, Ilocos Norte, Dr. John Wong, EpiMetrics, Dr. Cecilia Llave, Technical Advisor of the Jhpiego SUCCESS Project, Ms. Eden Lucero, Cervical Cancer Survivor and advocate, Ms. Frances Ngo of the University of the Philippines National Institutes of Health, Mr. Karlo Paredes, Market Access and Corporate Affairs Director of MSD of the Philippines 

In the Philippines, achieving the 90-70-90 targets will require a whole-of-society approach, emphasizing that the fight against cervical cancer is not just the responsibility of the health sector but requires the commitment of the National Government, local government units, private sectors, and the public.

Stakeholders at the summit expressed their commitment to the battle towards cervical cancer elimination. The Department of Health pledged to strengthen its cervical cancer prevention and control programs. At the same time, local government units vowed to improve access to HPV vaccination and screening services in their communities. Healthcare providers committed to increasing awareness and uptake of these services, and patient advocates and civil society organizations promised to support elimination efforts.

The 1st Philippine Cervical Cancer Elimination Summit may have concluded, but the real battle of turning commitments into action has just begun. The Philippines’ journey towards elimination will require sustained efforts from all sectors of society, but with unity and determination, a future where no Filipina has to suffer from cancer is within reach. 

MSD supports municipal, city health officers

April 23, 2024

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MSD in the Philippines has partnered with the Association of Municipal Health Officers of the Philippines, Inc. (AMHOP) for a highly anticipated convention in Santa Rosa City, Laguna held on April 23 to 27, 2024.

AMHOP is a recognized healthcare-professional organization composed of municipal and city health officers, medical officers or specialists, Doctors to the Barrios, and other allied professionals who are actively engaged in the public health sector.

During the week-long convention, MSD distributed relevant materials to help grassroots healthcare professionals in raising awareness on Cervical Cancer, which is the second most common cancer afflicting Filipino women.


Education materials on Cervical Cancer and how to prevent HPV may be downloaded here:

Download Briefer

Download Brochure

Download Modules

Download Onepager

Download SMCs

Download Tarps

Download Brgy Health Worker Downloadable

Our People

Women’s Network provides a safe space for our female employees to connect and grow 

April 16, 2024

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Did you know that the Philippines has one of the highest levels of gender equality across industries?1 In fact, out of 146 countries, the Philippines is the 19th best-performing country in terms of gender parity, according to the Global Gender Gap Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF).2  

Despite this good standing, we can still do more to support women in the workplace and encourage their further growth and development. 

The World Bank underscores the need for relevant policies and programs to boost female labor participation in the Philippines.3 These policies and programs may include supporting flexible work arrangements, addressing gendered social norms limiting women’s access to the labor market, and providing alternatives to in-home childcare, just to name a few. 

Why women’s networks matter in the workplace

Establishing a women’s community or network is a simple yet meaningful program that can support women in the workplace. It provides a safe space for women to connect, support each other, and advance their careers. It also promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace, thereby helping break down the gender pay gap and forward gender parity.   

Women’s Network: A safe space for women and their allies 

True to our commitment to diversity and inclusion, MSD in the Philippines offers many initiatives and programs that help us achieve this goal, including a Women’s Network. To date, MSD’s Women’s Network has 10,000 members in 72 global chapters empowering women throughout the company. 

Women’s Network in the Philippines was formally launched in 2018 and re-launched last March 28, 2023, in time for the Women’s Month celebrations. The network is led by Jade Fortin, with co-lead Jonnabee Hular and core team members Lai Valenzuela, Nicole Tenorio, Sheila Perete, Julie Dequit, and Michelle Marcelo and country leadership team sponsors Roan Evangelista and Ma-an Galang-Escalona.   

The Women’s Network aims to empower and support the women of MSD to fully realize their professional potential and achieve gender equality through all levels of the organization. The Women’s Network aspires to be an engaged and influential community that unapologetically champions and inspires women in MSD to be their authentic selves, feel a sense of belonging, and realize their professional aspirations. 

“My passion lies in empowering women within our organization and creating a space where their voices are heard, valued, and celebrated. I am committed to fostering an environment where women can thrive, break barriers, and unlock their full potential. Through mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities, we are building a community of strong and resilient women who inspire and support one another. Together, we will continue to shatter glass ceilings, cultivate leadership, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for all women at MSD,” emphasized Jade Fortin, Women’s Network Lead, Philippines.  .

Women’s Network activities reflect its three key priorities: business integration and insights, talent acquisition and development, and community outreach and social responsibility. 

Women’s Month 2024: #InspireInclusion

As part of the festivities for Women’s Month, the Women’s Network held a trade fair to promote and showcase up-and-coming female-owned and female-led businesses.  

They also distributed cupcake treats for their female colleagues on International Women’s Day last March 8, in partnership with HR and GWES. Through an #InspireInclusion Photo Challenge, we let our female colleagues and allies unleash their creativity by striking their best poses to depict what embracing gender equity looks like.  

In partnership with the Vaccines business unit, the Women’s Network has also launched the “Her Point of View (HPV) Cervical Cancer Prevention Lunch and Learn” activity. 

With cervical cancer as the second most common cancer afflicting women in the Philippines, the Women’s Network reaffirms its commitment to make cervical cancer a thing of the past through awareness campaigns encouraging women to get vaccinated and screened for cervical cancer as early as possible in partnership with HR, Vaccines Business Unit, CO and Employee Cooperative.  

During the second half of 2023, the network and their allies held Family Day and another Trade Fair, as well as an outreach activity called “Hair for Hope”, where volunteers can donate hair for cancer patients.

Lastly, the Women’s Network also held its Sister Circle locally called “Circle of Strength”, a safe space for our female and female-identifying colleagues and their allies to have courageous, bold, and inclusive conversations. For the last quarter of 2023, conversations delved into mental health, work-life balance, and balancing career and parenting. Additionally, long-term Women’s Network projects include the construction of an office playroom or family room, as well as improvements to the lactation room.    

Lighting the path for our female colleagues and leaders 

Indeed, the diversity of our colleagues enables us to better understand the unique needs of the consumers, healthcare providers, and patients we serve. Moving forward, we will remain committed to equity across gender as we continue to develop inclusive policies and programs that support women in the workplace and promote gender equality.

Want to know more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion? View our diversity and inclusion stories here.

Want a career where you can help invent for a more hopeful future? Visit our careers website today.

References

  1. BusinessWorld, Present state of women in the workplace, March 2023 
  2. Philippine Institute for Development Studies, Women in the workplace: Paving a better landscape in the labor force, March 2023 
  3. BusinessWorld, Present state of women in the workplace, March 2023