MSD PH advocates through community fitness and health awareness
In the battle against cervical cancer, every footstep matters. This May, they are taken with a purpose. As part of the international observance of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, pharmaceutical company MSD Philippines is hosting Run against Cervical Cancer, a community-driven event that combines exercise, advocacy, and health education to push towards a cervical cancer-free future.
Set for May 25, 2025, from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM, at Parqal Mall, ASEANA City, Parañaque, the Cervical Cancer Elimination Fun Run is more than an advocacy for physical movement; it’s also a rallying call for collective action. Runners, walkers, families, and all ages of advocates can join in the 3KM and 5KM race categories to run together for a common cause of eliminating cervical cancer through prevention and early detection.
“Through this fun run, we aim to empower more Filipinos with the information and the tools they need in order to prevent cervical cancer,” MSD Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel explained. “It’s not just a run, it’s a movement that brings public health to people, and it promotes early action and commitment to the WHO’s global elimination goals.”
Cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among Filipino women and girls, particularly those in the prime of their lives, or 15 to 44 years of age. Although preventable, the disease kills 12 women every day in the Philippines, with more than 4,000 deaths annually. Cervical cancer is primarily caused most by the human papillomavirus (HPV), but access to HPV vaccination and screening can significantly lower the risk.
This activity reaffirms that cervical cancer need not be fatal, considering early interventions like HPV vaccination and screening, and changes in lifestyle. The World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 plan aims to eliminate cervical cancer worldwide by ensuring that 90% of adolescent girls are HPV vaccinated by the age of 15, 70% of women are screened by age 35 and again by age 45, and 90% of women with pre-cancer treated and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed. While these goals are ambitious, they’re also achievable, especially when communities come together in making them happen.
Promoting Health Literacy and Preventive Care
At the core of the Run Against Cervical Cancer is the push to enhance health literacy and empower the public to make informed choices regarding their health.
The event will host educational booths and health information through the MSD PH Vaccines team. Run Against Cervical Cancer is open to everyone, but registration is required prior to the event.
By taking part, people make a real step forward for public health—not only for themselves, but for the wider community.
Turn every step into a stride—toward cervical cancer awareness, prevention, and ultimately, elimination. For more info, visit https://guardagainsthpv.ph or follow Guard Against HPV on social media.
