Around 1,000 participants gathered early on May 25, 2025, at Parqal Mall in ASEANA City, Parañaque to join the “Run Against Cervical Cancer” (RACC). The event was organized by MSD Philippines and the Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP). It brought together families, cancer survivors, medical professionals, and health advocates to promote awareness and prevention of cervical cancer.
The run took place during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in May. The runners wore teal shirts to symbolize their support and carried the message that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Participants chose between 3km and 5km routes, with more than 700 completing the longer course. Many shared personal reasons for running, including stories of survival and loss.
Lorely Magalona, who won first place in the women’s 5km run, dedicated her effort to her mother who died from cervical cancer in 2019. At 40 years old, Lorely runs regularly and has completed ultramarathons. Senior athletes also joined, including 78-year-old Rosalinda Ogsimer and 67-year-old Patricio Punzalan. Both promote fitness and awareness through their participation.
Exercise is known to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and improve the quality of life for survivors. Studies recommend at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity weekly combined with regular cervical cancer screenings. Cervical cancer remains a major health concern in the Philippines, with nearly 8,000 new cases and over 4,000 deaths annually.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV for girls aged 9 to 14 can greatly reduce risk, but vaccine coverage in the country is still low due to misinformation and limited access. The run supports the World Health Organization’s goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 through vaccination, screening, and treatment.
Former football player and cervical cancer survivor Belay Fernando-Dela Cruz emphasized the need for HPV vaccination for both girls and boys. Media personality Andi Manzano also shared her support for vaccination following her mother’s diagnosis of early-stage cervical cancer.
Teodoro “Ted” Padilla, Executive Director of PHAP, said the event aims to build awareness beyond the run to reach homes and communities. Quezon City Councilor Charm Ferrer, a cervical cancer survivor, encouraged other local governments to adopt policies like Quezon City’s ordinance that improves access to HPV vaccines and screening services.
MSD Philippines President Andreas Riedel closed the event by urging more action to prevent cervical cancer. He highlighted the combined efforts of government, medical groups, and community leaders to create a future free from cervical cancer threats.
The Run Against Cervical Cancer is a call for Filipino women and communities to take part in prevention through vaccination, regular screening, and timely treatment to reduce the impact of this disease.
