Indian women in enterprise and partners provide Phl 1K free cancer screenings

Indian Women in Enterprise (I-WE), in collaboration with the Philippines Cancer Society and various community partners, has completed over 1,000 free breast and cervical cancer screenings across multiple barangays and cities. This milestone was recognized at an event held on February 5, 2025, at the Bel Air Function Room, which brought together healthcare leaders, community advocates, and dignitaries.

The event was attended by H.E. Shri Harsh Kumar Jain, Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, who praised the initiative for its positive impact on women’s health. Awards were presented to key partners, including Romeo V. Marcaida, RN, Operations Head of the Philippines Cancer Society, and Atty. Enrique Quiason, Rotary Makati Premier District President, along with barangay leaders from Libis, Malibay, Marikina, Antipolo, Manila, Merville, Sucat, Binondo, and other participating communities.

Ambassador Jain emphasized the significance of the initiative as part of the celebrations for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines. He noted that such efforts can have a lasting impact on the health and well-being of women, particularly those at higher risk for breast and cervical cancer.

The initiative was made possible through the generous support of corporate sponsors, including ICE Trees, PanOpthalmics, GSS HR Solutions, Mustafa Mini Mart, Bell Jolies, SouthIndy, Chinmaya Mission, Exquisite, Indiartisane, LMK Technologies, and many individual members of I-WE.

The program also featured Eminent Healthcare Inc., which announced a special initiative to offer discounted cancer medication to further support women in need.

Barangay Bel-Air hosted the milestone event, with Barangay Captain Cynthia Cervantes welcoming guests. She shared her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor and emphasized the importance of early detection.

In her closing remarks, Priya Murugesan, Co-Founder and President of I-WE, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, MSME partners, and community leaders who contributed to the success of the initiative. "This was not just about screenings — it was about bridging the gap between awareness and action. The dedication of our volunteers turned hesitation into hope, ensuring more women have access to life-saving early detection."

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to expanding the program's reach. Immediately after the celebration, screenings resumed for another 100 women at Bel-Air, reinforcing the initiative's mission of saving lives through early detection and community-driven action.