Marking its 120th anniversary, the local government of Navotas City has launched a citywide HPV DNA screening program and unveiled a state-of-the-art molecular laboratory to bring early cervical cancer detection directly to women in the community.
The new laboratory utilizes fully automated technology that aligns with international standards to detect high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. The initiative aims to provide earlier diagnosis and timely treatment for residents who may not have access to traditional Pap smears.
“Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable, yet many women still struggle to access proper screening,” said Dr. Manuel Mapue II of the Department of Health’s Metro Manila Center for Health Development.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Filipino women aged 15 to 44. Despite the risks, only 1 percent of the population has undergone HPV testing. The Navotas program uses a centralized laboratory model that offers self-collection options, making the screening process more comfortable and accessible.
Mayor John Rey Tiangco stressed that the program is a core part of the city’s mission to uplift the lives of residents.
“In Navotas, every woman — regardless of income, background, or status — can access reliable, life-saving care,” Tiangco said. “This program represents our promise that no Navoteña should lose her life to a preventable disease.”
The city’s 2026–2030 roadmap follows the World Health Organization’s “90-70-90” targets: vaccinating 90 percent of girls, screening 70 percent of women, and providing treatment to 90 percent of those who test positive.
Navotas City Health Officer Dr. Eric David reported that the city has already screened nearly 85 percent of its female population and treated 82 percent of positive cases.
The laboratory is equipped with the Roche cobas 5800 system, a high-throughput diagnostic tool. Marco Valencia Sanchez, country manager of Roche Diagnostics Philippines, noted that while the system currently focuses on HPV, it can also test for HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis.