During the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine’s (PCOM) 46th Annual National Convention, PCOM reaffirmed its commitment to championing preventive health strategies and occupational health standards.
Among the many important discussions during the convention was the role of cancer prevention programs and the importance of fostering a health-supportive workplace for Filipinos affected by cancer. By bringing together medical experts, occupational health professionals, and industry leaders, the event underscored the urgent need for accessible screening services, vaccination awareness, and workplace health campaigns. These efforts are part of PCOM’s broader mission to integrate wellness into workplace systems and safeguard the health of Filipino workers and their communities.
Stand for a healthier and safer workspace against cancer
Cancer affects nearly every Filipino family. According to the latest data, cancer is now the second leading cause of death in the Philippines, with almost 190,000 new cancer diagnoses every year. Beyond the health impact, families also bear a tremendous financial burden. Medical expenses and indirect costs, such as lost income, missed workdays, and caregiving responsibilities, can amount to over P1 million per patient.
However, many of these burdens can be reduced or avoided through a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures. Certain cancers, such as those caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), are highly preventable through vaccination.
This reality highlights the urgent need for collective action in treatment, prevention, and early intervention, especially in the workplace, where many Filipinos spend most of their time.
A symposium on Cancer Prevention in the Workplace marked a key segment of the convention, during which PCOM formally released its Position Statement on the issue. The statement underscores PCOM’s commitment to supporting proactive health strategies within occupational settings.
Recognizing the critical role of occupational health professionals, PCOM calls for establishing accessible cancer prevention programs to create a culture of awareness and early intervention that benefits employees and their communities.
The statement aligns PCOM’s advocacy with major national health policies, including the Universal Health Care Law, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards, and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (RA 11215). It also supports Labor Advisory No. 20, which mandates employers to integrate cancer prevention into workplace wellness programs.
“PCOM is committed to enhancing educational initiatives and training focused on cancer prevention for workers, by equipping employees with knowledge and resources about various cancer risks. We aim to foster a greater awareness of preventive measures and health practices,” said PCOM Secretary Dr. Honeylee Cervantes.
“Our goal is to contribute to a healthier workforce in the Philippines, where employees are empowered to prioritize their health, leading to improved quality of life and greater productivity in their work environments.”
Working with Cancer Pledge
Further strengthening its advocacy, PCOM endorsed the “Working with Cancer Pledge”, a global initiative spearheaded in the country by AC Health, Ayala Group of Companies’ healthcare arm with lines of care spanning primary clinics, multi-specialty centers, hospitals, and pharma ventures. The initiative encourages companies to pledge support for a cancer-informed and compassionate workplace in alignment with the National Integrated Cancer Control Act.
Dr. Chelsea Elizabeth Samson, Director of Enterprise Development at AC Health, emphasized the importance of building cancer-supportive workplaces that provide flexible work arrangements, financial assistance, and compassionate policies for employees affected by cancer.
“We believe that cancer care must go beyond treatment,” Dr. Samson said. “We also focus on prevention, early detection, and supporting life after cancer.”
“The Working with Cancer Pledge is more than an organizational initiative. It’s a chance to change lives. It’s about creating environments where individuals feel safe to share their diagnosis, where policy truly supports them, and where medical professionals and leaders can make a lasting difference.”
Under the leadership of AC Health, Publicis Groupe Philippines, and People Management Association of the Philippines, 17 Philippine-based companies have already taken the Working with Cancer Pledge.
Advancing cancer prevention in workplaces
To turn commitments into actionable programs, PCOM signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with healthcare company MSD in the Philippines on February 7, 2025, further solidifying a strategic partnership to advance cancer prevention efforts nationwide. The collaboration is set to integrate cancer prevention into workplace health programs and improve access to preventive healthcare for thousands of Filipino workers.
Through this partnership, PCOM and MSD will equip occupational health professionals with the training and tools necessary to implement effective cancer prevention initiatives across diverse workplace settings. To expand the initiative, nationwide education campaigns, training sessions, and regional engagement are set to roll out this year.
On a broader scale, these initiatives are designed to strengthen health safeguards and generate economic and social value by creating a supportive environment for employees affected by cancer, and contribute to overall business sustainability.
With renewed commitment and strengthened partnerships, PCOM reaffirmed its leadership in shaping occupational health policies, promoting prevention, and advancing workplace education to protect employees and support the fight against cancer.
