Stronger healthcare for cancer patients

Every fourth of February, the international community observes World Cancer Day to further raise awareness, improve education, and catalyze action against cancer. It is also a time to honor the strength and resilience of cancer patients in fighting this deadly illness.

In the Philippines, cancer remains the third leading cause of mortality, following ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. This stark reality underscores the urgent need to strengthen the country’s healthcare system. That is why, as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and a health advocate, I continue to prioritize measures that will bring accessible treatments, medicines, and adequate medical facilities to our fellow Filipinos.

Even before the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, we made time to personally visit cancer patients at the House of Hope and those confined at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. These encounters deepened our resolve to fight for the welfare of patients so that no one is left behind, especially during their most vulnerable moments.

Despite Tatay Digong’s physical absence now, I continue to carry his values and legacy in caring for cancer patients. That is why I emphasize the importance of the Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF). Over the years, I consistently pushed for increases in the CAF budget, a key component of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (Republic Act 11215). This has helped ease the financial burden faced by patients and their families.

We have also persistently advocated for improvements in the benefits offered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), recognizing how vital this support is for patients grappling with serious illnesses.

PhilHealth now covers treatments such as chemotherapy for cancer patients, therapy for severe cardiac conditions, and a range of diagnostic services, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. Benefits have also been extended to medical transportation services and critical assistive devices such as wheelchairs and crutches.

Recently, we were honored with the Cancer Warrior Award during the World Cancer Day 2026 celebration organized by Redscope Communications Inc. on February 4. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, but with or without this award, I will continue to serve my fellow Filipinos, especially cancer patients, with utmost care and respect.

As we move forward, may we continue to draw inspiration and strength from our cancer patients and warriors in crafting laws and advocating programs that will improve their welfare.

Meanwhile, on 3 February, we visited 45 fire-affected families in Pasay City. Assessments were conducted to determine possible rehabilitation interventions.

Our team also delivered assistance to residents affected by fire incidents in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Quezon City; Santa Rosa City, Laguna; Bacoor City, Cavite; and Marikina City.

The team likewise coordinated closely with the local government of Macabebe, Pampanga, to provide additional assistance to indigent residents.

As a public servant, I will continue working hard to find more ways to improve the lives of my fellow Filipinos, dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo rin sa Diyos.