University News

MSD Offers Free Seminar and Screening, Promoting Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Awareness

Karylle Anne Cabugos, News, Communication Management Office

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The Medical Services Department (MSD), in coordination with the Gender Equity, Diversity, and Social Inclusion Office (GEDSIO), conducted a seminar and free cervical screening on October 15, 2026 titled "Healthy Woman, Bright Future: Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Awareness" promoting women's health through awareness and early detection. 

Anchored on the message "Early Detection is the Best Protection," the initiative aimed to raise awareness about cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), and the importance of regular screening in preventing and detecting the disease at an early stage..

The seminar took place from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Accenture Room, 4th Floor, East Wing of the PUP Main Building, Sta. Mesa Campus, Manila, followed by free cervical cancer screening from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Medical Clinic on the ground floor of the same building.

By combining health education with accessible screening services, the initiative encouraged members of the University community to take a more active role in protecting their health and making informed decisions about their well-being.

Dr. Donna Grace Cruz-Segador, MD, DPOGS, served as the resource speaker for the seminar, which focused on cervical cancer prevention and HPV awareness. Meanwhile, Dr. Helen C. Castro, MD, DPOGS, was designated as the cervical cancer screening provider, extending the initiative from health education to preventive medical care.

During the discussion, Cruz-Segador emphasized the importance of HPV vaccination and regular cervical cancer screening in reducing the risk of developing the disease. She also addressed common concerns about HPV prevention, explaining that vaccination provides significant protection but does not replace the need for regular screening.

For Dr. Mary Grace Roxas, Director of the Medical Services Department, the initiative highlighted the importance of taking preventive measures before health concerns become more serious.

"Let us remember that prevention begins with awareness and early detection that save lives,” Dr. Roxas emphasized.

Her message reinforced the purpose of the activity, reminding the University community that understanding health risks and seeking appropriate medical services are important steps toward cervical cancer prevention.

For Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management (BSBA MM) student Angela Grace Sarmiento, the initiative highlighted the importance of raising awareness about cervical cancer and encouraging young women to prioritize their health through preventive care.

"Being young doesn't mean we should overlook our health, which is why understanding the risks and taking preventive measures early is important," Sarmiento shared.

The initiative reflects PUP's commitment to promoting a healthier and more informed University community by providing opportunities for health education and preventive services.

It also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, through cervical cancer prevention and early detection, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by raising awareness about HPV and preventive healthcare. It also aligns with SDG 5: Gender Equality by empowering women to make informed health decisions and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by providing free cervical cancer screening. Meanwhile, the collaboration between the Medical Services Department and GEDSIO reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the University's commitment to accessible and inclusive healthcare. This also aligns with national efforts to promote women’s health under the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

Beyond the seminar and screening, the initiative serves as a reminder that protecting women's health begins with awareness and timely action. By encouraging early detection and preventive care, the program reinforces the importance of making informed health decisions and prioritizing women's well-being within the University community.