DIBDIBANG USAPAN: Conversations of Courage and Compassion

In a heartfelt gathering that blended medical expertise, compassion, and community spirit, the DIBDIBANG USAPAN: Breast Cancer Awareness Forum took center stage on October 29, 2025, uniting doctors, advocates, and survivors in a shared mission to fight breast cancer together.

The event, aired live over PTV48, DXNR 91.1 FM, and online platforms, was hosted by Jeanevive Abangan of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and jointly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tagum North as lead club, with RC Tagum Golden LACES and RC Tagum as co-hosts. It was held in partnership with PTV48, PIA Davao del Norte, DXNR 91.1 FM, the City Health Office of Tagum City, the Living Hope Cancer Survivors Club, and the Society of Medical Oncologists.

Opening the discussions, Dr. Genecar H. Erfe, a respected Medical Oncologist, delivered an empowering talk titled “Fighting Breast Cancer Together.” She emphasized the importance of early detection, regular screening, and the vital role of community awareness in reducing mortality rates. Her message was clear: breast cancer is not a battle fought alone it is a collective fight that thrives on education, support, and hope.

Continuing the dialogue of care, Dr. Suzette Solis, a Pain and Palliative Care Specialist, shared her insights through her topic, “Compassion in Every Touch: Palliative Care for Breast Cancer.” She highlighted how compassionate care eases not only physical pain but also the emotional and spiritual struggles of patients. Her message underscored the need for empathy in every phase of the healing journey.

Mental wellness was also brought into focus by Dr. Grace Gonzales-Orbita, a Psychiatrist from Tagum Global Medical Center, who spoke on “Mental Health for Breast Cancer Survivors and Immediate Family.” She shed light on the psychological toll of cancer and the importance of holistic healing that includes emotional resilience, family support, and professional counseling.

From the social services sector, Mr. Raul Hermosisima III, Head of the Social Work Department at the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC), tackled “Empowering Breast Cancer Patients: Navigating Government Hospital Benefits and Support Services.” He discussed accessible government programs such as PhilHealth, PCSO, and DSWD assistance, reminding patients that help is available and knowing where to turn can make a world of difference.

On the side of public health, Dr. Arnel R. Florendo of the Tagum City Health Office presented “From Awareness to Action: Tagum City’s Public Health Approach to Breast Cancer.” He showcased the city’s ongoing initiatives in preventive care, early detection programs, and awareness campaigns, illustrating how local government plays a crucial role in community health advancement.

Adding a deeply personal touch to the forum, Engr. Melina A. Avila, Founding President of the Living Hope Cancer Survivors Club, moved the audience with her inspiring story “More Than Pink: My Journey from Survivor to Advocate.” Her testimony resonated with strength and gratitude, showing how survivors can become beacons of hope for others facing the same fight.

Complementing this advocacy, PAG Arnold M. Nicolas of the Rotary Club of Tagum North recounted “From Vision to Victory: How One Project Brought a Lifesaving Mammogram Machine to Tagum City.” His story celebrated how collaboration and Rotary’s spirit of service turned vision into reality bringing tangible, life-saving equipment closer to the community.

Rounding up the event, President-Elect Mayette Aparis of RC Tagum Golden LACES shared the Rotary initiative “Rotary Pink October,” emphasizing continued engagement in awareness drives, free screenings, and support for breast cancer warriors across Davao del Norte.

The DIBDIBANG USAPAN truly lived up to its name a meaningful “conversation of the heart.” It showcased not just medical facts, but compassion, courage, and collective action.

As the forum concluded, one message resonated strongly: when a community comes together doctors, survivors, advocates, and civic leaders every discussion becomes a step closer to saving lives.     

Written by: PAG Arnold M. Nicolas, The Pinnacle /GML Editor