RC Tagum North Leads Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening Event at La Filipina Primary Health Care Facility

In celebration of Pink October, the Rotary Club of Tagum North, in partnership with the Rotary Clubs of Area 2D, spearheaded a meaningful event titled “Pink Clinic: A Breast Cancer Awareness Forum and Screening” held at the La Filipina Primary Health Care Facility in Tagum City.

The event gathered medical professionals, cancer survivors, community health workers, and Rotarians, all united in the mission to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection as a vital step toward saving lives.

A Collaboration for Life

The initiative was made possible through the partnership of the Tagum City Health Office, the Living Hope Cancer Survivors Club, and the Philippine Society of Medical Oncologists. Together, these organizations turned the forum into a vibrant celebration of compassion, education, and community service.

Empowering Through Education

Keynote speaker Dr. Genecar Erfe, a distinguished oncologist, delivered an insightful discussion on breast cancer awareness and the life-saving importance of early detection. Her message emphasized that awareness must be coupled with action  encouraging every woman to prioritize regular screening and health consultations.

Adding a deeply personal touch to the event, Engr. Melina Avila, founding president of the Living Hope Cancer Survivors Club, shared her moving journey as a breast cancer survivor. Her testimony of courage and faith inspired the audience, proving that with early detection, strong support, and unwavering hope, survival is possible.

Inspiration for Frontliners

Dr. Arnel R. Florendo, Tagum City Health Officer, delivered an inspirational message to the Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) the primary beneficiaries and frontliners of the program. He underscored their crucial role in community health promotion, particularly in guiding women toward preventive care. “You are the first line of defense in our fight against breast cancer,” he affirmed. “Your dedication and compassion truly save lives.”

A Celebration of Service and Solidarity

The event concluded with heartfelt closing remarks and a vote of thanks from PAG Arnold M. Nicolas of the Rotary Club of Tagum North, the host club. He extended gratitude to all partners, health workers, and participants who made the day a success.

“Today, we did more than talk about breast cancer we took action,” he said. “Let this day remind us that no woman in Tagum, or anywhere else, should face breast cancer alone.”

The Power and Promise of Pink

The Pink Clinic stood as a beacon of Rotary’s commitment to Service Above Self transforming awareness into action and compassion into care. The color pink, glowing throughout the venue, symbolized hope, unity, and the continuing fight against breast cancer.

As the community of Tagum moves forward, the message remains clear: through education, collaboration, and compassion, we can build a future where no woman faces breast cancer without hope or help.

Written by: Arnold M. Nicolas