04/02/2026
Today, February 4, 2026 — World Cancer Day — I stand with Filipino patients and families in calling for cancer care that is accessible, affordable, and equitable. Most advanced treatments are already available in the Philippines; patients need not travel abroad for care, and many medications can be obtained locally at lower cost. However, financial barriers still prevent many Filipinos from receiving the treatment they need.
Clinical trials offer important opportunities for patients to access promising therapies at little or no cost while contributing to research that benefits future patients. We also need more research focused on reducing costs, including studies that evaluate and repurpose existing, off‑patent medicines, so effective options become more widely affordable—not only the newest high‑price drugs.
Government and health systems play a central role in expanding access. Policymakers and institutions should prioritize health, ensure integrity and transparency in funding, and support programs that subsidize care and promote equitable access. On this World Cancer Day, let us move beyond awareness and work together—clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and communities—to build a healthcare system grounded in equity, transparency, and compassion. Every Filipino should be able to access the care they need.
Today, we stand together as a global community to celebrate the diversity of every person affected by cancer and to reaffirm our commitment to a future where every individual is valued, supported, and empowered.
Cancer does not discriminate, and neither do we. By embracing our unique experiences, we share knowledge, accelerate innovation, and strengthen compassion—moving closer to prevention, better care, and brighter outcomes for all.
Let us unite in action, empathy, and resilience—because every unique story matters, and together we can outwork cancer.
