Navotas City has launched a citywide Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) DNA screening program, bringing free preventive and early detection services closer to women as part of its cervical cancer prevention efforts.

The launch coincides with the city’s 120th founding anniversary and includes the opening of a new Molecular Laboratory equipped with fully automated technology designed to detect high-risk HPV strains, the leading cause of cervical cancer. The facility follows international standards and is intended to expand access to early diagnosis and timely treatment.

“Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable, yet many women still struggle to access proper screening and timely care,” said Dr. Manuel Mapue II, Development Officer V of the Department of Health Metro Manila Center for Health Development. “Through citywide HPV DNA testing, Navotas provides women with earlier diagnosis and ensures access to treatment and support, especially in areas beyond the reach of Pap smear and VIA screening.”

Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among Filipino women aged 15 to 44, while only about 1% have undergone HPV testing, according to health data. Through the Centralized Laboratory Model for HPV DNA Screening, or CLAMS, the city aims to make testing more accessible, including self-collection options, and to link women who test positive to timely treatment.

“In Navotas, every woman—regardless of income, background, or status—can access reliable, life-saving care,” said Mayor John Rey Tiangco. “As we celebrate our 120th anniversary, this program represents our promise that no Navoteña should lose her life to a preventable disease, with success defined by the lives saved, families kept whole, and women given the chance to live longer, healthier lives.”

Navotas has also laid out a 2026–2030 cervical cancer roadmap that integrates testing, vaccination, and treatment through partnerships with government agencies, medical institutions, and community organizations. Among the stakeholders involved are DOH Metro Manila, health offices in Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela, the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, and several hospitals and non-government groups.

The city is aligning its efforts with the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 targets for cervical cancer elimination: vaccinating 90% of girls, screening 70% of women, and treating 90% of those who test positive.

Dr. Eric David, Navotas City health officer, said the city has already vaccinated 33.11% of girls, screened 84.96% of women, and treated 82% of HPV-positive cases at local facilities, including Northbay Boulevard North Health Center, Bagong Lipunan Health Center, and Navotas City Hospital.

Private sector support has also been tapped, including technology provided by Roche Diagnostics Philippines.

“Roche is proud to stand beside Navotas in advancing the WHO 90-70-90 goals to eliminate cervical cancer into local action. With our cobas® 5800 system, the city now has world-class HPV screening technology, bringing leading standards of care directly to the community,” said Marco Valencia Sanchez, country manager of Roche Diagnostics Philippines. “We support this initiative as part of our ongoing public health collaboration with Navotas City, with the goal of significantly reducing cervical cancer-related deaths.”

City officials said the new system can also be used to test for other diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis, strengthening Navotas’ capacity for community-wide disease prevention and early intervention.

Through the expanded HPV DNA screening program, Navotas aims to improve women’s access to preventive care and serve as a model for local government-led cervical cancer prevention initiatives nationwide.