

Group photo of the VIPs and employees of the Okada Manila who attended the Nationwide Cervical Cancer Screening
MANILA, 28 May 2024 – The Department of Health - Metro Manila Center for Health Development (DOH-MMCHD), together with the Local Government of Parañaque City, launched Cervical Cancer Screening in the Workplace at Okada Manila on May 28, 2024.
In line with the theme, “Babae, Mahalaga Ka! Magpa-Cervical Cancer Screening Na!” a comprehensive range of services was provided during the Cervical Cancer Screening at Okada Manila. These included Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing, HPV Vaccination, Non-Communicable Diseases Risk Assessment, and Reproductive Health Services. The Parañaque City Health Office ensured that employees had access to these health services, promoting their engagement in various workplace health programs.
During the ceremonial launch, MMCHD Regional Director Rio L. Magpantay underlined the significance of the three P’s—Purpose, Passion, and Perseverance—in the decision-making process to prioritize health and ensure a sense of value for everyone. He also highlighted the importance of providing preventive and detection measures, such as regular screenings and vaccinations, which play a crucial role in reducing the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer.
“All of us have a purpose, ano man ang posisyon natin. Bilang mga alagad ng Kalusugan at partners ng Kagawaran, our purpose is to make everyone feel na mahalaga talaga ang buhay. That is why the City of Parañaque is offering health services to make your life better. Another P is passion, which should always be there to serve as a drive to fulfill our purpose. Lastly is all about perseverance. Anything you do, whatever your position is, perseverance is the key if you want to succeed.” Regional Director Magpantay said.
The launch is also part of the advocacy for health in various settings where we live, work, and study. For the workplace, the DOH aims to create a culture of health and safety where healthy behaviors are the easier choice for every worker. This paradigm shift showcases a whole-of-society approach convening the efforts of the DOH, DOH-MMCDH, LGUs, and partners.
Parañaque City Mayor Eric L. Olivarez also recognized the importance of this initiative in promoting and empowering women’s health.
“The launching of the nationwide cervical cancer screening services in the workplace by the national government is very much aligned with the local government’s unwavering dedication to making quality healthcare accessible to our constituents,” said Mayor Olivarez.

One of the Okada employees participates in the Cervical Cancer Screening Program in partnership with Okada Manila.
The City Mayor then recognized the support of the DOH and Okada Manila, praising them for their trust and cooperation in realizing this endeavor.
“We are, thus, thankful to the Department of Health and Okada Manila for being one of Parañaque City’s most consequential partners,” Mayor Olivarez stated.
“We are very optimistic that with a shared vision of ensuring that all women and girls have access to care, we can create a brighter and healthier future for the next generation,” he added.
Meanwhile, Okada Manila President and Chief Operating Officer Byron Yip expressed his gratitude towards the local government for spearheading the advocacy campaign.
“We at Okada Manila, under our Sustainability program pillar, Talent and Community, are dedicated to championing the health and welfare of our female employees. We fully support the Department of Health and the City of Paranaque's efforts in promoting this vital cervical cancer awareness campaign. We extend our gratitude to the government bodies for selecting Okada Manila to avail of these essential free services," said Yip.
Okada Manila, in collaboration with the City Government of Parañaque and DOH-MMCHD, aims to build a healthier workplace by responding to the needs of every employee. This initiative aligns with one of the DOH's 8-Point Action Agendas, "Bawat Pilipino, Ramdam ang Kalusugan," which ensures the accessibility and availability of health services in Bagong Pilipinas, kung saan Bawat Buhay ay Mahalaga.

Several VIPs gathered and signed the Commitment Wall, affirming their dedication to join the fight against cervical cancer.