Dagupan City, Philippines – November 29, 2024 – In a lively collaboration aimed at promoting women’s health, the Dagupan City Water District (DCWD) and the Inner Wheel Clubs of District 379 joined forces once again to host the much-anticipated “Cervix ko, Alagaan ko: A Cervical Cancer Awareness and Screening Test Project.”
This impactful event took place at the Women’s Center, Bonifacio Street Dagupan City, attracting a crowd of women eager to learn about cervical cancer and take action for their health. This joint initiative, part of DCWD’s Gender and Development (GAD) program, represents the second time the two organizations have come together to address crucial health issues affecting women. The program’s mission is clear: raise awareness about cervical cancer and provide access to vital screenings that can save lives. The event was not only a success in terms of turnout but also in fostering a deep sense of community commitment to women’s health.
A Powerful Partnership
The event was made possible thanks to the unwavering support of the DCWD Board of Directors (BOD), led by Chairperson Arlene Sanchez, a former District Chairman of the Inner Wheel Clubs of District 379. Their vision and dedication to both basic services like water and social causes such as health were key to making this project a reality. CerviQ Med Corp., headed by Dr. Jesus Randy “Bogs” C. Rivera, also played a pivotal role by offering free cervical cancer screening tests to the less fortunate women of Dagupan City.
In her opening remarks, Inner Wheel Clubs of District 379 Chairperson Vyan Venise C. Armas warmly welcomed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of taking time for one’s own health amid the responsibilities of family and work. She emphasized that women must remember that they are not only caretakers of others, but also caretakers of their own health.
Bridging Basic Needs and Life-Saving Health Initiatives
DCWD General Manager, Gretchen Buena, underscored the uniqueness of the event, pointing out how the partnership harmonized two essential elements: water—an essential basic need—and women’s health, which is vital for sustaining lives. GM Buena remarked that this event is an example of how basic services can be united with important social causes. By focusing on women’s health, the event is not only providing a service but empowering women to take charge of their future.
Learning and Action: A Day of Empowerment
The event featured an engaging lecture by Dr. Ryan Joseph B. Lirazan, who provided a comprehensive overview of cervical cancer, the risks of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and preventive measures. The session was highly interactive, with many attendees asking thoughtful questions about cervical cancer, its causes, and potential cures. Dr. Lirazan’s insights sparked critical conversations about health issues that often go unspoken, creating an open space for women to address their concerns.
DCWD BOD Chairperson Arlene Sanchez, a passionate advocate for women’s health, also took to the stage to express her heartfelt gratitude to both the Inner Wheel Clubs of District 379 and DCWD for their collaboration in this life-changing event. This partnership reflects the shared commitment to raising awareness and providing essential services that can truly make a difference in the lives of women. Her words resonated deeply with those in attendance, highlighting the power of unity and collective action.
A Resounding Success
As the event drew to a close, the resounding success of the project was clear. The collaboration between DCWD, Inner Wheel Clubs of District 379, and CerviQ Med Corp. is proof of how communities can come together to create impactful change. It’s more than just a screening event; it’s a movement toward a future where women’s health is prioritized and every woman has access to the tools she needs to live a long, healthy life.
With this second-time partnership, the message is loud and clear: “Taking charge of our health is not a choice; it’s a necessity.” This is a partnership that continues to inspire and uplift, leaving a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Dagupan City’s women. Let’s all take charge of our health—and together, we can make a difference.
