The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development kicks off this year’s Women’s Month with free cervical cancer screening services to its female employees and eligible dependents, held February 23,24, and 27, 2026.
This initiative foregrounds the need to scale-up screening coverage in order to curtail incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. It also coincides with the observance of the National Cancer Awareness Month every February aimed at improving preventive and treatment outcomes through early detection, timely referral, and promotion of continuity of care.
Dr. Rosa Maria B. Rempillo, DOH Bicol OIC-Regional Director, expressed her appreciation for the bold step women are taking to undergo screening, emphasizing that cancer screening is not only a wellness check-up but a form of selfcare.
Regional Program Manager of the National Integrated Cancer Control Program (NICCP) Ms. Julie Anne L. Granadino conducted an orientation on the proper usage of the HPV DNA self-tesk kits.
According to Ms. Granadino, this initiative seeks to improve participation rates for cervical cancer screening while empowering female personnel to take proactive health actions.
The DOH Bicol urges Bicolano women to take control of their health by availing cancer screening services at the nearest Rural Health Unit (RHU) or City Health Office (CHO) in their area. They may also avail through the DOH-designated cancer sites in the region: Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center – Bicol Cancer Center (BRHMC-BCC) and Bicol Medical Center – Regional Cancer Center (BMC-RCC)
Source: DOH5/MJCLB