Metro Manila, Philippines — Women can now access free cervical cancer screening through selected Southstar Drug branches and scheduled community screenings in Parañaque, Navotas, Manila, and Quezon City, as part of an expanding public health initiative to promote early detection and prevention.
Cervical cancer, a disease affecting the cervix, is both preventable and treatable when detected early. Despite this, it remains the second most common cancer among Filipino women, claiming the lives of an estimated 12 women every day.
As per the Department of Health (DOH) and World Health Organization, the measures to prevent cervical cancer are: (1) vaccination for girls aged 9–14 and (2) screening for women aged 30–65. This initiative by the respective cities aligns with and contributes to the DOH’s National Cancer Control Program, which focuses on improving screening coverage and providing accessible and convenient cervical cancer-related information and services within communities.
Free screenings are now available at selected Southstar Drug branches on the following days and times:
- Southstar Drug Matalino, Quezon City – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Southstar Drug Robinsons Novaliches – Mondays to Wednesdays, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Southstar Drug Tondo Yuseco – Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Southstar Drug Parañaque – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
The free screenings are led by the respective cities’ health offices, in partnership with the DOH and Jhpiego Philippines, through its Unitaid-funded Scale Up Cervical Cancer Elimination with Secondary Prevention Strategy (SUCCESS) Project. The project uses high-performance HPV DNA testing through self-collection in selected Southstar Drug outlets to improve accessibility.
In addition, scheduled community-based screenings are being conducted by the Women Workers for Health Empowerment Network (WHEN), bringing these vital services closer to underserved communities. Women are encouraged to inquire at their nearest health centers for details on screening schedules in their area.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet access to screening remains a challenge for many women. This initiative aims to break down those barriers,” said Dr. Ingrid Magnata, Country Program Manager of Jhpiego Philippines.
The screenings are open to women aged 30 to 49 years old, especially those who have never been screened. No payment is required, and walk-ins are welcome during community events.
Screening days and hours may vary across participating Southstar Drug branches, and community-based screenings are not available daily. Women are encouraged to check with their nearest Southstar Drug branch, local health centers, or follow their LGU’s official health page for the latest screening schedules.
Take charge of your health—get screened, stay safe.
