Efforts are underway to help Filipinos face cancer not with fear, but with hope and better support.
At the recent general membership meeting of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines in Makati City, government and private sector leaders gathered to discuss how to strengthen the country’s cancer care system. The event, held at Ayala North Exchange, focused on improving prevention, early detection, and access to affordable treatment.
Cancer remains one of the top causes of death in the Philippines, according to government data. Surveys also show that many Filipinos consider it one of the most feared diseases. High treatment costs, limited screening, and unequal access to specialized care — especially outside Metro Manila — often lead to late diagnoses and heavy out-of-pocket expenses for families.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the government is working to change the narrative around cancer. Under the Universal Health Care program, he said the goal is to create a “cancer-ready” Philippines, where access to quality care depends on medical need, not a patient’s ability to pay. He added that the government aims to build a system that is more inclusive, proactive, and compassionate.
Discussions during the meeting highlighted the need to expand prevention programs, boost HPV vaccination, use digital tools for early detection, and develop sustainable financing models to make care more affordable.
Insurance provider Manulife Philippines, a long-time Canadian business in the country, supported the event and reaffirmed its commitment to cancer care. The company recently launched a global Longevity Institute backed by a CA$350 million investment through 2030 to promote longer, healthier lives. In the Philippines, it also partnered with AC Health to strengthen cancer prevention and care programs.
Studies show that 41 percent of medical expenses in the country are paid out of pocket, while one in three Filipinos feel their health insurance coverage is not enough. Manulife Philippines President and CEO Rahul Hora said the company is focused on providing financial protection and working with partners to ensure Filipinos facing cancer receive the right care and support.
For its part, the Canadian chamber said it is mobilizing employers, insurers, and health innovators to improve early detection, digital health systems, and sustainable financing — guiding patients from diagnosis to survivorship.
Organizers said the growing collaboration between government and private groups signals a shared commitment: ensuring that a cancer diagnosis no longer brings only fear and financial strain, but also access to care, support, and hope.
