Advancing Women’s Health: RC Makati Leads Cancer Screening Missions Across Luzon

In pursuit of its enduring commitment to preventive healthcare and the empowerment of women through early detection, RC Makati, in partnership with the RC Makati Premier District and the Philippine Cancer Society, mounted a series of impactful cancer screening missions throughout April and May 2025. These missions provided free breast and cervical cancer screenings to women in both workplace and community settings across Luzon, reinforcing the club’s advocacy for accessible, proactive health services especially for those with limited means.

The first of four major missions commenced on April 8, 2025, at the Sanitary Care Products facility in Tanauan, Batangas, where 100 women, primarily company employees received free screenings. Fifty-six participants underwent VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) testing, with three found positive and immediately referred for further medical evaluation. Additionally, 57 women received breast examinations, several of whom were flagged for follow-up, reinforcing the mission’s goal of workplace wellness through early diagnosis. This event marked the second collaboration for the Rotary year between RC Makati and the Philippine Cancer Society, further deepening their shared commitment to corporate-based health programs.

The second mission followed on April 23, 2025, at Sanitary Care in Brgy. Bagumbayan, Taguig City, screening another 100 women. Twenty-six underwent VIA tests, resulting in one positive case, who received on-site cryotherapy and a week’s medication. Meanwhile, five women presented potential breast concerns requiring closer observation. This impactful mission was supported by PP Cesar Campos, Dir. Neil Makasiar, and Ms. Maribee Campos-Lamers of RC Makati Premier District, demonstrating inter-club cooperation in service to women’s health.

The third screening mission was held on April 26, 2025, in Brgy. Mayapa, Calamba, Laguna, focusing on a more community-based approach. A total of 45 women underwent breast exams, with eight found to have breast masses that warranted further diagnostics. Eleven participants also received cervical cancer screenings, with no positive VIA results recorded. This community engagement showcased RCM’s commitment to extending quality medical access to women in low-resource areas.

The fourth and final mission in the series took place on May 10, 2025, at Carissa Homes East 1 in Bagumbayan, Teresa, Rizal. Observed by Dir. Boy Arteche and Rtn. Michael Hsu, the outreach was bolstered by RCM’s Php 20,000 sponsorship, directly supporting the services provided. Of the 100 women screened, 50 received VIA testing three of whom tested positive and were treated immediately via cryotherapy. Eight participants were flagged for breast masses and were advised to seek further evaluation. The active involvement of club leaders not only emphasized Rotary’s hands-on service model but also reinforced the club’s steadfast support for holistic community health.

These comprehensive missions addressed two of the most prevalent cancers affecting Filipino women breast and cervical cancer. With breast cancer as the leading type and cervical cancer being both common and largely preventable, early detection remains crucial. Through the provision of free services and prompt medical referrals, RC Makati has exemplified Rotary’s power to bridge critical healthcare gaps, especially for those with limited access.

Altogether, five cancer screening missions were successfully conducted by RC Makati during Rotary Year 2024–2025, collectively reaching hundreds of women across Parañaque, Batangas, Taguig, Laguna, and Rizal. This sustained initiative reflects the club’s resolute focus on early detection, preventive care, and equitable healthcare access.